CRASH Network Survey Reveals 50% of Auto Repair Shops Fully Staffed

Collision repair shop employee working at a computer in office.

Signs of a Workforce Shift in Auto Repair

A recent survey conducted by CRASH Network has revealed a significant trend in the auto repair industry—approximately 50% of collision repair shops are currently fully staffed and not seeking new hires. This marks the highest percentage of fully staffed shops recorded since the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting a potential shift in workforce dynamics.

The Technician Shortage Still Looms

Interestingly, despite half of the surveyed shops being fully staffed, there still exists a concerning technician shortage. The report indicates that just 30% of shops are looking for a body technician, which is surprising given the ongoing shortage of over 100,000 job openings projected through 2028 according to the TechForce Foundation. Typically, around 60% of shops report needing body technicians, and the latest statistics show that only 79 openings exist for every 100 shops, a stark drop from the 164 openings per 100 shops recorded in late 2021.

Impact on Hiring Practices

This trend raises questions about hiring practices in the industry. Less than 1 in 5 shops reported willingness to hire multiple technicians if given the opportunity, with 44% of shops indicating that they would not hire any additional technicians. As a manager from a large shop in Memphis noted, current workflow does not justify new hiring, reflecting the caution shops are taking in the current economic climate.

The Future of Collision Repair

Furthermore, while the length of rental continues to fluctuate, it suggests that industry challenges are still prevalent. With the average Length of Rental (LOR) remaining above pre-pandemic levels, associated supply chain issues and production challenges continue to hinder rapid recovery for the sector, impacting the number of repairs and the overall need for technicians.

Concluding Thoughts

As the auto repair industry navigates this complex labor landscape, understanding these trends becomes essential for shop owners and job seekers alike. The current state of hiring—and the reluctance to employ more technicians—could signal a turning point for the future of collision repair.

News & Local Alerts

Write A Comment

Related Posts All Posts

07.25.2025

I-CAR Faces Industry Scrutiny on Listening to Collision Repair Experts

Update A Call for Improved Dialogue in Collision Repair During a recent open mic session at the Collision Industry Conference (CIC), I-CAR, the key training entity for the collision repair industry, faced heated feedback over its engagement with industry professionals. Attendees expressed frustrations about I-CAR’s perceived lack of responsiveness to concerns raised by repairers. This direct challenge reflects a growing sentiment within the community — that there is an urgent need for better communication and understanding of the frontline issues impacting collision repair businesses. Addressing Industry Concerns Kyle Thompson, the CEO of I-CAR, was present to address these concerns head-on. He emphasized I-CAR's commitment to improving pathways for feedback, assuring attendees that their voices matter and would potentially shape future training initiatives and resources. As the landscape of collision repair evolves rapidly with new technologies, such as ADAS and electric vehicles, training organizations must adapt quickly and effectively. Thompson's acknowledgment of these gaps is a step towards bridging the divide. Engaging the Community: A Necessity for Success The reality is that the collision repair industry is at a crossroads where businesses are grappling with not only technical challenges but also the proficient integration of customer service and communication. By actively seeking input from repair professionals, I-CAR can enhance its curricula and training strategies, ensuring they remain relevant and effective. Audience members stressed the importance of emotional intelligence in customer interactions — something the industry cannot afford to overlook. Moving Forward: A New Era of Collaboration As I-CAR deliberates on the feedback received, the potential for collaboration between training experts and industry professionals is enormous. A focus on regular dialogues with stakeholders can uncover insights that lead to more nuanced training programs. It’s time for I-CAR to transform itself into a catalyst for ongoing education and partnership within the collision repair sector. In conclusion, the recent open mic at the CIC was a pivotal moment, highlighting the necessity for I-CAR to not only listen but to act on feedback from the frontline workers of the collision repair industry. This call for action could potentially redefine the future of training in this critical field.

07.25.2025

GM Partners with Redwood Materials: Driving the Future of Energy Storage

Update GM Teams Up with Redwood Materials to Boost Energy Storage In an exciting development for the energy and automotive sectors, General Motors (GM) has announced a strategic partnership with Redwood Materials, a company renowned for its innovative recycling solutions and commitment to sustainable practices. This collaboration aims to accelerate the production and implementation of energy storage systems, a crucial advancement as the world pivots towards renewable energy sources. Catalyzing the Energy Transition With increasing focus on sustainability, this partnership is expected to enhance GM's electric vehicle (EV) offerings. Redwood Materials specializes in recycling materials that are essential for battery production, such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel. By incorporating recycled materials into the manufacturing process, GM not only reduces costs but also minimizes its carbon footprint, aligning with global sustainability goals. Implications for Future Innovations This collaboration signifies a vital shift in how both companies approach energy solutions. By integrating Redwood's advanced recycling technology, GM is set to streamline its supply chain and improve battery efficiency in its vehicles. This synergy could potentially lower production costs and, in turn, make EVs more accessible to consumers. Why This Matters The partnership comes at a critical time when interest in renewable energy solutions and electric vehicles is at its peak. By investing in energy storage systems, GM is taking proactive steps to support energy transition efforts while ensuring that its products remain competitive in a rapidly evolving market. This development not only fosters technological advancements but also addresses pressing environmental issues, showcasing a commitment to sustainability. Your Role in Supporting Sustainable Options As consumers increasingly seek environmentally responsible products, partnerships like the one between GM and Redwood Materials illustrate the importance of sustainable practices across industries. By staying informed, you can make decisions that align with your values and support the transition to greener technologies.

CRASH Network Survey Reveals 50% of Auto Repair Shops Fully Staffed

Signs of a Workforce Shift in Auto Repair

The Technician Shortage Still Looms

Impact on Hiring Practices

The Future of Collision Repair

Concluding Thoughts

Terms of Service

Privacy Policy

Core Modal Title