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Do You Tip Auto Repair Mechanics?

Do You Tip Auto Repair Mechanics?

Leaving tips can be confusing. Who needs a tip? Who doesn’t? Once you figure that out, you also need to know how much to tip someone. It’s important to know this so that you can properly thank someone who has served you in some way.

You might not have thought about tipping an auto repair mechanic. Is this necessary? If so, how should you do it?

Do You Tip an Auto Repair Mechanic?

As pointed out by Anders Automotive, which does auto repair in Kansas City, KS, there’s actually no right or wrong answer here. Some people tip mechanics and others don’t. Most mechanics don’t receive tips from their customers.

According to Car Talk, some mechanics may not feel comfortable accepting a tip. This may be because they are simply not used to receiving tips for their service.

Usually, mechanics make a good amount of money per hour. According to ZipRecruiter, the national average is $19 per hour. Some make as much as $30 per hour.

Waiters are always tipped because they work for a low hourly rate. Gratuity is often needed to make the job worth it. Otherwise, waiters would be underpaid. This isn’t the case for mechanics.

When Might It Be Appropriate to Tip an Auto Repair Mechanic?

You might choose to tip a mechanic during certain times of the year, such as the holidays. People are often more generous during the holidays. This is a good idea especially if you use the same mechanic regularly.

You can also tip a mechanic if they don’t charge you for something. Some mechanics will look at a car and won’t make you pay unless they can actually fix it. The mechanic still spent time working on your car. A tip would be appropriate in this particular situation.

If the mechanic does a great job, you can also give them a tip. This might be especially useful on a tricky or lengthy repair.

If you have a great relationship with your mechanic, you might be more inclined to tip them. This is more common if you are friends with your mechanic or if they are a family member.

How Much Should You Tip an Auto Repair Mechanic?

If you choose to tip an auto repair mechanic, you need to know how much to tip them. According to Tipping.org, for jobs under $500, a $10 to $20 tip is enough. You can tip $50 for jobs over $500.

If you feel like your mechanic deserves more, you can tip them above these guidelines.

What Are the Challenges of Tipping a Mechanic?

As mentioned before, not all mechanics will accept a tip. They simply aren’t used to receiving tips. They might not know if it’s appropriate to accept a tip either.

Another major challenge is that you won’t always see a mechanic. At some repair shops, you might talk to someone at the front desk. You may never interact with a mechanic or have a chance to tip them.

Some people are wary of tipping mechanics. Not all mechanics are honest and they may overcharge you. This is one reason that people choose not to tip mechanics. Because of this, you might choose to tip a trustworthy mechanic that you have known for a long time. You don’t have to tip a newer mechanic or one you have only visited one time.

How Else Can You Show Your Appreciation for an Auto Repair Mechanic?

If you choose not to tip a mechanic with money, there are other ways to show your appreciation. These gestures are still meaningful. They may be just as useful as cash would be to the mechanic.

Here are some ways to thank a mechanic:

  • Recommend the mechanic to your friends. If you bring the mechanic more customers, you’re showing them that you trust their service. You are also helping your friends out!
  • Become a repeat customer. If you keep coming back, you will be benefiting the mechanic. This can help them out and shows that you like their work.
  • Thank them genuinely. Mechanics hear a lot of complaints. Tell them that you appreciate their effort.
  • Offer a gift. You can offer a mechanic something in place of a tip. Some people give mechanics a gift card or a homemade treat.
  • Leave a review: Many potential customers rely on online reviews. Leave your mechanic a good review on Yelp or Google to draw more customers to them.

Any of these are good ways to show your appreciation without actually tipping a mechanic. These are still beneficial to the mechanic and they show the mechanic that you care.


It’s really up to you whether you tip a mechanic. Many aren’t used to getting tips. There are other ways to show your appreciation if you don’t want to tip a mechanic with cash. Even showing that you’re thankful can go a long way.

If you find a mechanic you like, be sure to go back to them. Share your positive experience with your friends. This will help to send more customers to the mechanic.