How do I sell a brake and alignment shop?

Buyers of brake and alignment shops look closely at the equipment, the people and the accounts, so those are the places to prepare. A tidy file saves weeks of questions. So does an honest picture of what the shop does and who does it. Start months ahead if you can, and keep the work going while you do.

Equipment and calibration records

Pull together the age, make and service history for the alignment rig, lifts and brake lathe. Collect the calibration records and note which equipment is owned and which is leased or financed. Fix small problems that a buyer’s inspector will notice. A tool list with condition notes is more useful than a long inventory. Compare our page for a neighbouring trade.

Fleet and dealer accounts

List each fleet or dealer account with how long it has run and whether it is in writing. Buyers want to know whether those customers will stay. Where you can, tell the key contacts at the right moment, ideally after a buyer is serious and you have agreed how to do it. Do not promise a customer anything for the new owner.

Technicians and the franchisor

Your technicians are a large part of what a buyer is paying attention to. Decide when and how to tell them, and ask the buyer to meet them. If the shop uses a banner, read your franchise documents for approval and transfer steps, and contact the franchisor early. Your lawyer can explain what they require.

Keeping the bays busy

Keep booking jobs, ordering parts and serving customers as normal. A quiet month during the sale invites questions, and a buyer watches the shop’s pace. See our guide on selling an independent auto repair shop for the wider steps.