How Auto Mechanics Can Eliminate Card Fees & Upgrade Their Equipment
Auto mechanics are no strangers to rising overhead. Whether it's tool costs, parts markups, or labor demands, there's always something eating into your margins. But there’s one expense most shops overlook: credit card processing fees.
If your shop processes anywhere from $5,000 to $100,000 per month in card payments, you’re likely losing hundreds—sometimes thousands—of dollars each month in merchant fees. And the bigger your jobs, the more you pay.
The good news? You can legally eliminate card processing fees and upgrade your payment equipment—all without raising your base pricing. Here's how.
👉 Click here to learn how to eliminate your merchant fees and processing fees
What Is Dual Pricing? (And Why It’s Compliant)
Dual pricing is a payment model that presents customers with two clear options:
Cash Price: What your services cost when paid in cash or with debit.
Card Price: A slightly higher total that includes the processing fee.
Instead of your shop paying those fees (typically 3%–4%), they’re built into the card price. This is not a hidden surcharge. It's a transparent, pre-disclosed pricing model that gives your customer the freedom to choose their method—and helps you retain your full profit margin.
This method is compliant with Visa, Mastercard, and most state regulations when applied correctly:
No fees on debit cards
Separate line item for card processing cost
Visible signage at the point of sale
Clearly printed dual pricing on receipts
💡 Learn more about how dual pricing works
How Much Are You Really Losing to Fees?
Let’s break it down:
Monthly Sales: $30,000
Card Transactions: 70% ($21,000)
Average Card Processing Fee: 3.5%
Monthly Fee Loss: $735
Yearly Fee Loss: $8,820
That’s money your shop could invest in:
Hiring more techs
Upgrading tools and lifts
Expanding bays or service lines
Launching local advertising campaigns
Free Payment Equipment: What’s Included?
The savings don’t stop with fee elimination. Many dual pricing providers also offer modern, secure payment equipment at no cost. You’ll often receive:
EMV Chip Readers – Required for secure card-present transactions
Contactless/NFC Tap Terminals – Accept Apple Pay, Google Pay, smart cards
All-in-One POS Devices – Streamlined checkout with receipt printing
Mobile Readers – Ideal for remote service bays or mobile repair
Countertop or Standalone Options – For front office flexibility
This eliminates leasing headaches and keeps your shop up to date with today’s payment expectations.
👉 Click here to see what hardware upgrades are included
Dual Pricing vs. Traditional Processing
Is Dual Pricing Legal in My State?
In most U.S. states, dual pricing is fully legal and supported by card networks when the rules are followed. A few states have additional consumer protection requirements or bans on surcharging, so it’s critical to verify local regulations.
If you’re not sure, it’s worth contacting a provider that offers legal compliance audits and provides pre-formatted signage and receipts.
Who This Program Is Best For
Dual pricing is ideal for independent and midsize auto businesses that rely on high-ticket service jobs and consistent credit card payments. This includes:
General auto repair shops
Tire & alignment centers
Transmission & drivetrain specialists
Brake & muffler shops
Paint & collision repair
Mobile diagnostics or roadside techs
Independent diesel or fleet service providers
Getting Started Is Easier Than You Think
Implementing dual pricing doesn’t require complicated software or a tech overhaul. A reputable provider will guide you through:
Free Consultation
Understand your current payment volume, fee exposure, and projected savings.Hardware Setup
You’ll receive EMV/contactless terminals already configured for dual pricing. Some setups ship within 1–3 days.Signage & Compliance Material
Clear signs are provided for your front desk, bay areas, and receipts—ensuring full transparency and legal compliance.Training & Support
Your team gets a quick rundown on how to explain pricing options to customers professionally and confidently.
👉 Get started here with no upfront cost
What Mechanics Are Saying About It
“We were spending over $1,200 a month in processing fees. Now we keep that money, and our customers don’t mind. The key is transparency.”
– Small auto repair owner in Texas
“Free tap terminals and faster deposits were just icing on the cake.”
– Independent mobile mechanic in Florida
Final Thoughts
Merchant processing fees are a quiet profit killer for most auto shops—but they don’t have to be. Dual pricing puts you back in control. When set up correctly, it eliminates your card fees, updates your hardware for free, and keeps you compliant with all major networks.
If you're ready to cut costs, protect your margins, and serve your customers transparently, dual pricing is the easiest upgrade you can make this year.
🔧 Click here to learn how to eliminate merchant fees and upgrade your shop’s payment systems
