Tired of spending too much time on manual estimates?

Struggling with inconsistency in pricing and objections from customers?

Well, you are not alone in this!

Creating an accurate estimate requires time and focus to ensure correct and complete details. But doing this manually leaves room for errors and inaccuracy.

But what if you can improve your estimates and customers’ expectations?

It is possible with modern technology. By automating the operations, you can get a professional and detailed estimate through auto repair estimating software.

With so many options in the market, choosing the best software for your auto repair shop can be a daunting task. That is where we are going to help you get the perfect solution that can help save time, reduce errors, and enhance customer experience.

Let’s get right into the essential factors to consider when selecting the software.

Still Using Old Methods for Estimating Repairs?

Still using manual estimating methods and outdated software?

If yes, then you are literally wasting your valuable time. 

As the automotive repair industry is evolving with time, so are the expectations of customers regarding auto repair. They want reliability and accuracy about the services and pricing. 

The good news is that you can create reliable and accurate estimates using the modern software solution and meet the customer’s expectations. 

Let’s explore what exactly this software is, what the key features of auto repair estimate software so you can get a better idea of how it works and the benefits you.

Auto Repair Estimating Software and Why Do You Need It?

Auto repair estimate software is specifically designed to help auto repair shop owners create repair estimates professionally and quickly. It includes all the necessary details for the convenience of both shop owners and customers. 

Every cost is calculated automatically, making it fast and accurate, eliminating the need for manual creation and calculation. With transparent and complete details, customers can understand and approve the estimates without any delays. 

Additionally, estimating software not only helps with repair estimates but also integrates with other systems to ensure a better workflow. It provides access to parts & supplies and labor guides for accurate and up-to-date pricing.

Having real-time pricing and access to numerous parts suppliers makes it easier for you to generate estimates from one screen without the need to switch screens or confirm availability and the latest pricing for parts.

Torque360 Revolutionizing Your Estimating Process

Torque360 is one of the auto repair estimation software solutions that has made its name in the top list in 2025. It has powerful features that simplify and improve the entire estimating process. It has many features that can help in managing your auto repair shop efficiently, such as:

When every operation is automated, you can focus more on satisfying your customers with quality auto repair services. The best thing is that there are no surprises for your customers as every task is transparent and clear, helping you in gaining more trust and reputation in the auto repair market.

Key Features of Estimating Software

Let’s have a look at the estimating features of Torque360 that enhance your shop’s efficiency and technicians’ productivity:

1. Automated Estimating

The most important feature of software is automation. This means you do not have to enter the details manually. You can create professional estimates with just a few clicks.

Add a vehicle using VIN that adds the vehicle’s details automatically to the estimate. Add parts sourced through various suppliers. Add labor and additional costs, and that’s all.

Automated estimates ensure that there are no human errors or missing details. The result is a complete, clear, and easy-to-understand estimate. 

2. Integration with Parts and Labor Databases

Torque360 offers integrations with Nexpart and PartsTech for sourcing parts at reasonable rates. You can compare different suppliers in real-time with updated pricing, so there is no confusion in the final bill. 

You do not have to go to different websites or make phone calls to suppliers to confirm the availability or latest prices. Everything is available in one dashboard.

Moreover, you can add industry-standard labor time through Epicor labor guides. It has a vast database for every type of repair service. It helps in charging a fair labor rate from customers and paying fair wages to your employees.

3. Digital Vehicle Inspections

Digital vehicle inspection adds another layer of accuracy in repair estimates. Technicians can add notes, photos, and videos after diagnosing issues. This helps the customers to understand the issues through visuals. 

Explaining the customers verbally can be challenging as they are not familiar with the technicalities, but visuals help them understand the issues better and approve the estimates.

With clear communication between technicians and customers, Torque360 ensures that no details are overlooked. Here’s how digital vehicle inspection in Torque360 works!

4. Customizable Templates

Customization is another feature that Torque360 estimation software offers. With flexibility to customize your estimates, you can create different templates for frequently used auto repair services. This way, you do not have to create the whole estimate from the beginning. Instead, simply click on the saved template for more convenience. 

5. Real-Time Parts Inventory 

To ensure your inventory is stocked, the inventory management feature is available in Torque360 auto repair software. Real-time stock tracking ensures that there are no delays in the repair work. 

Moreover, this feature also helps in saving your money and the shop’s space by preventing overstocking. If any part gets below the threshold, it automatically recommends you about the stock level so you restock before it runs out. 

Inventory management eradicates any chances of over-promising or under-delivering, so the customers get what they expect. Doing so helps you meet their expectation and make a good reputation in the market. 

6. Reporting and Analytics

Reports and analytics are important for auto repair shop owners. With this data, they can make smarter business decisions and track the performance. With this feature, you can monitor profitability through different reports. 

7. Customer Communication Tools

With built-in communication tools, keep your customers informed about the updates on the repair work. When customers are aware of what’s happening, they tend to trust you more. 

You can share estimates, photos & videos, timeline, additional details, and more through SMS and emails. Also, Torque360 provides you the option to share these over WhatsApp. 

Engaging with the customers builds a long-term relationship with them. It also ensures that they are satisfied with your services and return in the future. 

Benefits of Estimating Software for Your Shop

Now that you know the key features of software, let’s see how these features benefit your business:

1. Speed and Efficiency

With so many vehicles coming in and out of the auto repair shop, it is important to make your services quick and efficient. Saving more time and fixing more vehicles means making more profit. Instead of wasting time on manual operations, the estimating software makes all the operations faster and reduces downtime. 

2. Accuracy and Consistency

Accuracy and consistency are what make your shop stand out in the auto repair market. A single incorrect detail can cause inconsistency and make you lose a customer for no good reason. By using software, you can rest assured that there are no errors and everything is accurate and consistent every time. 

3. Increased Customer Satisfaction

Customers are the backbone of a business. Without customers, there will be no vehicles to fix, hence a lost business. By offering complete transparency, you ensure that your customers stick with you for a long time. Once the customer gets the auto repair services as per their expectations, they will always return to your shop.

4. Integration with Other Systems

Integrations with other systems like accounting, customer management, inventory, etc keep everything synced. You do not have to open different software to update information, as Torque360 allows you to do all of that from a single screen. This way, the overall workflow is organized and there is no room for discrepancy.

Choosing the Right Estimating Software for Your Shop

Confused about choosing the right estimating software for your shop?

Don’t worry! We are here to guide you on how you can find the perfect fit. Here are some tips:

1. Assess Your Shop’s Size and Complexity

The very first step in choosing the right software is to understand what your shop’s needs are. Without making a checklist, you will probably be wasting money. Consider these factors:

  • Are you a small/independent shop?
  • Do you operate in multiple locations?
  • Do you have fewer employees or a large team?
  • What is the volume of estimates per day?
  • Do you require additional advanced features?
  • What is the complexity of your auto repair business?

Tip: Consider how many users will need access to the software and whether you need mobile or remote access.

2. Define Your Key Features and Needs

Every auto repair shop management software offers different features catering to the different needs of the repair shops. Save more time and money by identifying the needs of your business. Here’s what you should consider:

  • Do you want the software to enter details automatically or want to input them manually?
  • Do you want inventory integration to pull in real-time pricing and availability of parts?
  • Should your technicians be able to directly communicate with the customers?
  • Does your shop need cloud-based and mobile-friendly software?
  • Are you interested in customization or okay with pre-built templates?

Tip: Make a list of the features you need and prioritize them. This will help you narrow down your options.

3. Evaluate Ease of Use and Training Requirements

Many shop owners and auto repair technicians who are not into technology may find using the software challenging. When you are choosing software for your shop, look into the ease of use and training requirements. Look for these factors:

  • Does the software provider offer proper training for your employees, or looking for minimal training?
  • Does the software offer simplicity in terms of interface and usage?
  • Does the software provider offer customer support, training resources, and ongoing assistance?
  • Does the software provider offer a free demo or trial before you pay?

Tip: Many software providers offer free trials or demos. Take advantage of these to see how easy the software is to use before committing.

4. Consider Integration with Other Systems

Many auto repair shops use different systems for accounting, inventory, and customer management. If you are currently not using any, you need to make a change and choose the one that integrates with other systems for an organized workflow and to avoid duplication. Here are some of the integrations that you should consider:

  • Can software integrate with parts suppliers and the inventory system to enhance the estimation process?
  • Does software offer integrations with accounting tools like QuickBooks to ensure an accurate number game?
  • Does software provide customer management tools to boost customer experience?

Tip: Look for software that offers integrations or pre-built connections with the tools you already use to save time and reduce manual work.

5. Look at Pricing and Payment Models

Pricing is one of the essential factors to consider when you are choosing the software. Some software offers a monthly subscription while others offer an annual subscription. Some also have a one-time fee, and others have a tiered pricing system. 

When evaluating the cost, make a decision based on your budget and the value of the software for your business in the long run. Here’s what is important when it comes to pricing:

  • Torque360 offers a subscription model to ensure that the pricing fits your budget.
  • Some software offers free trials before you invest, so you can take advantage of using the features before making the final decision.
  • Always watch out for hidden fees. Before paying, ask for setup fees, upgrade costs, or any other additional charges.

Tip: Compare pricing across several software providers to make sure you’re getting the best deal for the features you need.

6. Review Customer Support

The best practice is to check out the customer reviews and feedback who have used the software and have firsthand experience. You obviously want to know what software is capable of before investing. Here are the important things you should consider:

  • Does the chosen software provide multiple support channels?
  • Does the software offer user guides, tutorials, or webinars on estimates and other features?
  • Does software offer regular updates to improve the features, fix bugs, and add features with the changing market?

Tip: Check reviews or testimonials from other users to see how responsive and helpful the customer support is.

Here’s a list of the top 10 auto repair estimate software in 2025!

Conclusion

Auto repair estimating software is no longer a luxury. It has become the most important part of auto repair businesses. For repair shop owners who want accurate and professional estimates.

Satisfying customers with the best quality services is also a part of running a successful business. Which is why it is good to benefit from modern technology so your auto repair shop stands out among competitors.

Torque360 can make a world of difference when it comes to estimation. So, don’t let outdated methods hold your business back and book a demo today!