SIC 7539 Automotive Repair Shops, Not Elsewhere Classified

SIC 7539

This category covers businesses that primarily do specialized automotive repair, not elsewhere classified, such as fuel service (carburetor repair), brake relining, front-end and wheel alignment, and radiator repair. Businesses that primarily do automotive welding are in SIC 7692: Welding Repair.

NAICS CODE(S)

811118

Other Automotive Mechanical and Electrical Repair and Maintenance

Miscellaneous services done by automotive repair shops included automotive tune-ups, automotive electrical repair, battery and ignition repair, fuel system conversion, generator and starter repair, and brake work. This industry classification does not include such automotive service providers as emissions testing centers, inspection services, do-it-yourself garages, diagnostic centers, lubricating and oil change shops, emergency road services, rust proofers, window tinting shops, and towing services, all of which are covered under SIC 7549: Automotive Services, Except Repair and Carwashes.

The Automobile Service Association (ASA) estimates that over 80,000 independent general mechanical repair businesses operate in the United States, employing approximately 339,170 people and repairing more than 231 million motor vehicles. Eighty-eight percent of independent mechanical repair businesses are family-owned. Auto repair work is also provided by 45,000 gas stations, over 22,000 new car dealerships, and branches of chain stores and warehouse clubs with automobile service centers. Total sales for general mechanical repair facilities in 2005 was estimated at $36 billion by the ASA, not including an estimated $9 billion earned by establishments primarily billed as transmission shops. The National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) reported another $85.2 billion was earned by franchised auto dealers in service and parts sales in 2005. Overall, 46 percent of a typical dealership's total profit comes from the parts and service department, according to NADA analysts.

As cars became a staple of American life during the middle of the twentieth century, demand for specialized repair services rose. Automotive repair jobs were expected to rise at the same rate as the average for all occupations through 2006, according to the Department of Labor. More than 100 community colleges offered two-year degrees sponsored by the major automobile makers. In addition, the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF)...