Numbers: The Tariff Effect
IMR surveyed 500 repair shops about the effects of tariffs, with effects scaling sharply by shop size. 83% of shops surveyed raised prices. Shops with 1-3 bays raised prices fastest, absorbed the fewest costs (11%), and reported the least customer loss (8%); 30% of shops with 8+ bays absorbed the costs.
The survey also found that parts shortages hit larger operations hardest, with 85% of 8+ bay shops reporting struggles compared to 61% of small shops. Half of shops haven't changed their parts sourcing, though 60% of 4-7 bay shops increased their inventory ahead of expected price increases. Only 17% of small shops reported doing the same.
Source: IMR Installer and Supplier Tracking Study, Q2 2026.
