Numbers: Tools & Equipment 

Auto shop owners are increasingly recognizing the importance of technology, yet many still allocate minimal funds.
Nov. 7, 2025
4 min read

It takes a sharp skillset and a deep toolbox to keep customers’ wheels spinning. But just how much of the budget should be dedicated to technology and tools? While 27% of auto shop owners estimate allocating 1 to 5% of the budget to these costs, 28% admit they have no specific budget for equipment. As technology becomes more critical in diagnosing vehicle issues, the amount of your budget that you dedicate to these line items may rise. For now, here’s a look at the numbers dedicated to technology, tools, and equipment as reported in the Ratchet+Wrench 2025 Industry Survey. 

PERCENT OF BUDGET USED FOR TECH, TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT

Less than 1%

2%

1-5%

27%

6-10%

22%

11-15%

11%

16-20%

5%

21 or more

5%

No specific budget

28%

 

 

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