Sell or Buy an Auto Repair Shop in Illinois

Auto Repair Business Overview

Illinois has over 8,000 auto repair shops serving millions of vehicle owners. From general repair to specialty services, auto shops provide essential services that remain in demand regardless of economic conditions.

Auto repair businesses include general repair shops, transmission specialists, body shops, tire shops, and specialty service centers. These businesses require attention to environmental compliance, equipment maintenance, and technician retention.

Auto Repair Business Valuation

Valuation Method	Multiple Range	Notes
SDE Multiple	2.0x - 3.0x	Seller's Discretionary Earnings
EBITDA Multiple	3.0x - 4.5x	For larger operations
Asset-Based	Varies	Equipment + real estate value

Key Valuation Factors

Equipment condition: Lifts, diagnostic tools, specialty equipment
Real estate: Owned vs. leased, location quality
Customer base: Fleet accounts, repeat customers
Technician retention: Skilled labor availability
Environmental compliance: EPA and state requirements

Selling an Auto Repair Shop in Illinois

Key Selling Considerations

Equipment appraisal: Professional valuation of lifts, tools, diagnostic equipment
Environmental assessment: Phase I environmental study for property
Customer documentation: Fleet accounts, warranty work, repeat customers
Staff transition: Key technician retention planning
Permits and licenses: EPA, state, and local compliance documentation

Regulatory Compliance for Sellers

EPA Compliance: Waste oil, refrigerant handling, hazardous materials
ASE Certification: Technician certifications and training records
Environmental Permits: Air quality, waste disposal, stormwater
State Licensing: Illinois automotive repair registration

Complete Selling Guide →

Buying an Auto Repair Shop in Illinois

Key Buying Considerations

Equipment assessment: Condition, age, and replacement costs
Environmental liability: Review environmental history
Customer analysis: Fleet accounts, warranty relationships
Workforce evaluation: Technician skills and retention
Location analysis: Traffic, visibility, competition

Due Diligence Checklist

Financial review: 3-5 years of financial statements
Equipment inventory: Complete list with maintenance records
Environmental audit: Phase I assessment
Customer analysis: Revenue by customer type
Regulatory compliance: All permits and licenses

Complete Buying Guide →

Auto Repair Business Types

🔧 General Repair

Full-service auto repair shops.

⚙️ Transmission

Transmission specialists.

🚗 Body Shops

Collision repair and painting.

🛞 Tire Shops

Tire sales and service.

🔋 Quick Lube

Oil change and quick service.

🏎️ Specialty

Performance and specialty vehicles.

Auto Repair Business Resources

Industry Organizations

Regulatory Agencies

Frequently Asked Questions

Auto repair shops are typically valued at 2.0-3.0x SDE. Key factors include equipment condition, real estate, customer base, and technician retention. Shops with owned real estate and fleet accounts command higher multiples.

Environmental considerations include waste oil disposal, refrigerant handling, hazardous materials storage, and potential soil contamination. A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment is typically required for property transactions.