Auto tech shortage presents a career opportunity in a well-paid trade

The cost and waiting time for auto repair work are about to increase. That’s because there’s a shortage of skilled auto technicians in this country. Talent shortages drive up labor costs, which in turn drive up the cost of maintenance.

About 967,000 auto technicians work for 270,300 independent repair shops in the U.S., according to the 2026 Auto Care Factbook by the Auto Care Association. That accounts for about 80% of our overall automotive repair capacity.