Artificial intelligence (AI) isn’t something to fear—it’s a tool designed to help you and your shop perform better. Despite what some over-sensationalized headlines might suggest, AI isn’t here to replace jobs. Instead, it’s here to work alongside you, making your day-to-day tasks faster, easier, and more efficient.
In fact, a study from Stanford University found that tasks that once took 90 minutes can now be done in just 30 minutes with the help of AI. That kind of time savings can mean more cars through the shop, faster parts ordering, or simply less time on paperwork.
AI is already transforming the auto and diesel industries, and it’s only picking up speed. Staying informed and embracing these tools isn’t just a smart move—it’s how your shop stays competitive and avoids falling behind.
AI is Not Replacing Shop Staff. It’s Here to Help Them.
Let’s start by debunking one of the most common myths about AI: that it’s coming to replace technicians and other shop staff. The truth is, AI isn’t a replacement—it’s a tool to support your team. Think of it as a helpful sidekick, not a whole new hire.
In today’s shops, AI can assist with everything from diagnosing issues faster to streamlining customer communication. But it still relies on skilled people to integrate it into the workflow and get the job done right. Learning how to work alongside AI is the key to unlocking its full potential and boosting productivity.
Real Ways Shops Are Using AI Today
AI is already playing a role in many repair shops. Owners, technicians, and customers alike are using AI tools to supplement their operations and make work easier. From parts ordering to customer service improvements, here are some ways shops are using AI in their day-to-day operations:
- Scheduling & Workflow Management: AI-powered systems help optimize repair bay usage, manage appointment bookings, and even send predictive maintenance reminders to customers based on service history.
- Hiring & Recruiting: Many shops use AI through applicant tracking systems (ATS) to quickly screen resumes and predict which candidates might be the best fit for their team before interviewing.
- Customer Service: Chatbots and virtual assistants can quickly answer common customer questions online, schedule appointments, and send service updates.
- Diagnostics & Repairs: AI-powered diagnostic tools can analyze vehicle data, identify issues faster, and recommend repair solutions, helping to get to the root of the problem faster.
- Marketing & Business Operations: AI can help manage marketing campaigns by analyzing customer data, sending targeted promotions, and even writing content. On the business side, it can assist with everything from financial forecasting and inventory management or checklists to analyzing shop performance trends.
- Technician Training & Development: AI-driven training tools can not only expand technicians’ knowledge but also assess their skill levels and recommend targeted lessons or certifications to help them improve in specific areas.
AI Isn’t Going Away—It’s Only Growing
AI is becoming an essential part of the automotive and diesel industry, and its role keeps expanding. Shops and manufacturers are already using predictive tools to forecast when parts might fail, which means faster service and fewer unexpected repairs for customers.
At the same time, AI is transforming technician training by offering smart, personalized learning tools that help techs build the skills they need most, anytime, anywhere. AI is also revolutionizing shop marketing by analyzing customer data to spot trends and target outreach more effectively.
This is just the beginning. Shops that embrace AI will continue to be able to work faster, attract more skilled technicians, and keep customers coming back. Those that don’t, risk falling behind in an industry that’s moving quickly.
AI Tools for Repair Shops & Dealerships
Adding AI to your shop or dealership doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Start small by trying a free or low-cost tool that improves one part of your workflow, then expand from there.
You don’t need to be an expert, and chances are some of the tools you already use have AI features built in to make everyday tasks easier and faster. It’s not about overhauling your entire shop overnight. It’s about embracing smart, simple tools that save time, improve accuracy, and help your team work smarter.
With thousands of AI tools out there, it’s about finding what works for you. Here are a few options and how they can help:
- Today’s Class (Training): Quickly identifies strengths and challenges at both the shop and individual levels. Your team can then train to grow those areas in need anytime, anywhere, using this intuitive online platform or mobile app.
- ChatGPT (Content & Productivity Assistant): A versatile AI chatbot that helps you draft emails, social posts, and marketing copy; analyze information, brainstorm ideas, answer technical questions, and assist with quick research. You can even customize it to act like a virtual service writer, marketing assistant, or training coach, saving you time and boosting productivity in your shop.
- Canva (Marketing Design): An easy design tool with AI features to help you create professional marketing graphics, social media posts, and flyers. No design experience needed.
- Revv (ADAS Calibration): AI-powered calibration platform that instantly identifies all OEM-required ADAS procedures using a vehicle’s VIN, automates documentation and invoicing, and streamlines the entire calibration workflow.
- Autel MaxiSys Ultra AI (Diagnostics): High-speed, AI-assisted troubleshooting with powerful ECU coding and service reminders. Known for its excellent interface and deep diagnostics.
- Podium (Scheduling & Communication): The ultimate customer communication and scheduling platform. It uses AI-powered tools to help shops manage online reviews, book appointments, send automated customer reminders, and communicate through text, webchat, and more to grow the business.
- Mechanic Advisor (Customer Retention & CRM): An AI-powered customer retention platform built specifically for auto shops. It automates service reminders, review requests, and marketing campaigns based on customer behavior and vehicle history. Great for boosting return visits without a lot of manual effort.
- Carmen (Customer Support & Diagnostics): An AI-powered platform that helps shops and dealerships quickly troubleshoot vehicle issues, answer customer questions, and deliver instant, accurate service recommendations, improving efficiency and customer experience.
Don’t Fall Behind: Embrace AI to Keep Your Shop Ahead
AI isn’t here to replace your people—it’s here to help them work smarter. There are thousands of AI tools out there, and that number’s only going to keep growing. The shops that start exploring and embracing AI now will outpace the ones that wait.
This isn’t about replacing staff or overhauling your entire shop overnight. It’s about using smart tools to save time, improve service, and give your team an edge. From diagnostics to scheduling to marketing, AI is already reshaping how shops run, and it’s not slowing down.
The takeaway? Start small, try a tool or two, and get comfortable using AI in your day-to-day. Don’t get left behind. The industry is moving forward! Make sure your shop is moving with it.
