Todd Nelson, Autodata Publications Expert Technician

Ask the Expert: How do repair information providers come up with their labor times?

Feb. 6, 2013
Manufacturer-provided labor times are based on ideal conditions that are not always reflective of the typical repair scenario in an auto repair shop.

Q: How do repair information providers come up with their labor times?

A: Most manufacturers provide repair time estimates strictly for warranty purposes. The manufacturer will conduct several timed tests for a particular repair, and use the average as the labor time. A brand new vehicle is used for the time study, the technician is trained and experienced, all required tools are at the-ready, and the car is on the hoist, if needed.

In a nutshell, manufacturer-provided labor times are based on ideal conditions that are not reflective of the typical repair scenario in an auto repair shop. To fix this, aftermarket repair information providers may adjust the manufacturers’ times to better reflect reality.

At Autodata Publications, for example, manufacturers’ labor times may be increased depending upon the job’s level of complexity. The more complex the job, the more time is added. All labor times are increased a small amount simply to account for the up-front administrative work such as writing up the repair order, bringing the car into the bay and getting it up on the hoist. Simple repairs that normally require few special tools or experience receive no additional labor time adjustment.

Information provided by Autodata Publications, Inc. 

Sponsored Recommendations

Career Minded

The Peterbilt Technician Institute teaches you the skills needed for a lucrative and fulfilling career, transforming students into certified diesel technicians. Maximize your ...

Going Mobile: Guide To Starting A Heavy-Duty Repair Shop

Discover if starting a heavy-duty mobile repair business is right for you. Learn the ins and outs of licensing, building, and marketing your mobile repair shop.

Career Minded

The Peterbilt Technician Institute teaches you the skills needed for a lucrative and fulfilling career, transforming students into certified diesel technicians. Maximize your ...

Proactive Fuel Risk Management Guide

Download this informative guide to explore innovative techniques to prevent fuel fraud and misuse before it happens. Understand how to save 11% or more in fuel-related costs while...