Some repair operations have finality to them. By that, I am referring to jobs that do not require additional labor after the job is complete. For example; installing a tail light lens, set of wipers, an air filter or cabin filter. Once these jobs are done, they are done.

There are other labor operations, such as brake work and wheel alignments, where even though a road test is required after completion, there is enough gross profit built into these jobs that we do not need to worry about the total labor charges.

Now, let’s take an O2 sensor, catalytic converter or other similar jobs. These jobs are not over once the part is installed. The tech needs to retest the system and the component, verify the repair and road test the vehicle. In addition, more time is needed to sell that type of repair. Where I am going with this? The labor time to replace an oxygen sensor is only part of the repair. You also need to account for the additional time needed to complete the operation: retesting, verifying and road testing. Not taking this into account could hurt labor production, which will affect your bottom line.

Oh yes, I am hoping that everyone is getting paid for testing, too.

This article was contributed by Joe Marconi, a superstar shop owner who now helps other shop owners 1-on-1 through the Elite Coaching Program.