Connect with Trusted Mobile Mechanics in Your Community | Trader Street
Find Your Perfect Mobile Mechanic Match
Whether You’re Hiring or Offering Services
Car problems shouldn’t mean losing half your day at a garage or paying inflated platform fees. Trader Street connects car owners directly with qualified mobile mechanics in their local area, creating genuine relationships built on trust, transparency, and fair pricing.
No middleman fees, no complicated booking systems – just real connections between neighbours who need help and skilled mechanics who can provide it right on your driveway.
For Car Owners: Find Your Mobile Mechanic
Your car deserves professional care from someone who truly understands vehicle systems and values quality workmanship. Trader Street makes it simple to connect with experienced, qualified mobile mechanics in your neighbourhood who offer exactly the service you need, at prices you can actually afford.
Why Choose Trader Street for Mobile Mechanic Services?
- Direct Communication – Message mobile mechanics directly to discuss your specific vehicle issues, service requirements, and availability. Build rapport before booking.
- Transparent Pricing – Negotiate rates that work for both parties. No hidden platform fees or surprise charges. Pay directly and save an average of 20-30% compared to traditional garage prices.
- Flexible Arrangements – Need emergency breakdown help? Regular servicing? Diagnostic work? Pre-MOT inspection? Work out custom arrangements that fit your schedule and budget.
- Community-Based – Connect with mobile mechanics in your local area who can respond quickly when your car won’t start, offer convenient driveway service, and understand local needs.
- Variety of Services – From routine oil changes to brake repairs, battery replacement to diagnostic fault-finding, connect with mechanics offering exactly what you need with the right qualifications.
How It Works for Car Owners
- Browse Local Mobile Mechanics – Search profiles of qualified mobile mechanics in your area. View their experience, qualifications (IMI, City & Guilds, specialist training), services offered, rates, and availability.
- Connect Directly – Message potential mechanics to discuss your needs. Share details about your vehicle, describe symptoms, ask about their experience with your car make and model.
- Arrange Service – Work out scheduling, pricing, and specific requirements directly. Get written quotes and create arrangements that suit everyone.
- Build Lasting Relationships – Find a reliable mobile mechanic you trust. No need to search again each time your car needs attention. Build a relationship with someone who knows your vehicle’s history.
Popular Services Available
- Battery testing and replacement
- Oil and filter changes
- Brake pad and disc replacement
- Diagnostic fault-finding and scanning
- Pre-MOT inspections
- Alternator and starter motor replacement
- Clutch repairs (where driveway-appropriate)
- Suspension work and repairs
- Timing belt replacement
- Full and interim servicing
- Emergency breakdown assistance
- Coolant and fluid top-ups
- Light bulb and fuse replacements
- Minor electrical repairs
- Tyre changes and pressure checks
For Mobile Mechanics: Grow Your Business
Turn your qualifications and expertise into a thriving mobile mechanic business. Trader Street provides the platform to connect with car owners seeking reliable, qualified mechanics like you. Set your own rates, choose your clients, and build your business on your terms – without paying hefty commission fees.
Why Offer Services Through Trader Street?
- Keep Your Full Earnings – Set your own rates and keep what you charge. No commission fees eating into your income. Unlike platforms charging £1,200+ annually, Trader Street lets you keep 100% of your earnings.
- Build Your Reputation – Create a compelling profile showcasing your qualifications, experience, services, and specialisms. Collect reviews from satisfied clients and establish yourself as a trusted local professional.
- Choose Your Clients – Accept only the jobs that fit your schedule, expertise, and service area. You’re in complete control of your workload and business direction.
- Direct Client Relationships – Build lasting connections with car owners. Become their go-to mechanic for regular servicing, MOT preparation, and emergency call-outs. Develop a loyal client base through excellent service.
- Flexibility – Work as much or as little as you want. Perfect for established mobile mechanics seeking additional customers or newly self-employed mechanics building their business from scratch.
- No Lock-In Contracts – Join and leave as you please. No long-term commitments, no restrictive agreements, no platform fees whether you’re busy or quiet.
How It Works for Mobile Mechanics
- Create Your Profile – Showcase your qualifications (City & Guilds, IMI certifications, specialist training), experience, services offered, rates, and availability. Add photos of your van, equipment, and completed work to stand out.
- Receive Enquiries – Car owners in your area will find your profile and message you about their vehicle problems and service needs.
- Discuss Requirements – Chat directly with potential clients about their vehicle, symptoms, service history, and requirements. Provide professional advice and transparent quotes.
- Agree on Terms – Set your rates, schedule your arrival time, and confirm payment terms directly. Build the mobile mechanic business you want without platform interference.
- Deliver Excellent Service – Do what you do best and build your reputation through quality workmanship, honest communication, and satisfied clients who recommend you to friends and family.
Services You Can Offer
- Regular vehicle servicing (full and interim)
- Diagnostic and fault-finding
- Brake system repairs
- Battery and electrical work
- Emergency breakdown assistance
- Pre-MOT inspections
- Routine maintenance
- Specialist services (EV/hybrid, classic cars, performance vehicles)
- Fleet servicing for local businesses
- Seasonal checks (winter preparation, summer cooling systems)
- And any other mobile mechanic service you specialise in
Define your specialities, set your service area, choose your availability (emergency call-outs, pre-booked appointments only, weekend work), and create package deals for regular servicing clients.
Why Trader Street is Different
For Everyone
No Hidden Fees – Unlike traditional platforms and garage chains, we don’t take a cut of your earnings or add fees to the customer’s bill. What you agree is what you pay or receive.
Real Community Connections – Build genuine relationships with local mobile mechanics or car owners. No faceless corporation between you, no pressure to rush jobs to cover platform commission fees.
Your Business, Your Way – Mobile mechanics set their own rates, choose their schedule, and decide which jobs they take. Car owners negotiate directly for services that fit their budget and needs. Complete autonomy for both parties.
Transparent Communication – Direct messaging means you can discuss everything upfront – vehicle history, symptoms, parts quality, labour rates, timing. No surprises, no miscommunication.
For Car Owners:
- Sign up free
- Search local mobile mechanics (using our in-app messaging service or contact directly)
- Message your favourites about your vehicle needs
- Arrange service directly at mutually agreed rates
- Build lasting relationships with trusted professionals
For Mobile Mechanics:
- Create your professional profile
- List your services, qualifications, and specialisms
- Respond to enquiries from local car owners
- Build your client base without commission fees Keep 100% of your earnings
Popular Services Explained
Regular Servicing
Mobile mechanics bring the service to your driveway – full services, interim services, and manufacturer-schedule maintenance without the inconvenience of garage visits.
Emergency Breakdown Assistance
Flat battery? Won’t start? Mobile mechanics can often attend same-day or within hours, diagnosing and fixing issues on-site.
Pre-MOT Inspections
Identify potential MOT failures before test day. Mobile mechanics check your vehicle, advise on necessary work, and help you avoid costly retest fees.
Diagnostic Services
Modern vehicles are complex. Mobile mechanics with proper diagnostic equipment identify fault codes, electrical issues, and sensor problems quickly.
Brake Work
From brake pad replacement to disc changes, mobile mechanics handle routine brake maintenance conveniently on your driveway.
Battery Replacement
Dead battery? Mobile mechanics come to you with replacement batteries, fit them on-site, and register them correctly for modern vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions for Homeowners
How do I know if a mobile mechanic is qualified?
Check their profile for qualifications like City & Guilds Level 2/3, IMI certification, or specialist training (EV/hybrid certification, manufacturer training). Ask to see certificates if needed. Good mobile mechanics are proud to display their qualifications and will happily verify them. For any gas work on LPG systems, ensure they have Gas Safe registration for automotive work.
What if I need emergency help?
Many mobile mechanics offer emergency call-out services, though these typically cost more (£100-£200+ for out-of-hours emergency work). Some mechanics list “emergency services” on their profiles. When messaging, explain it’s urgent – many mechanics will prioritise genuine emergencies over routine work. For roadside breakdowns, mobile mechanics can often attend faster than traditional breakdown services.
How do payments work?
You arrange payment terms directly with your chosen mobile mechanic. Most accept bank transfer, cash, or card payments. For larger jobs, mechanics might request a deposit (typically 25-50% for parts). Always get a written invoice detailing work completed, parts used, and costs. Payment is between you and the mechanic – Trader Street doesn’t handle transactions or take commission.
Should I get multiple quotes?
For routine work like servicing or brake pads, one or two quotes should suffice. For expensive jobs (clutch replacement, major diagnostics), three quotes help ensure fair pricing. When requesting quotes, provide identical information (vehicle year, make, model, mileage, symptoms) to each mechanic for accurate comparison. Remember that cheapest isn’t always best – experience and reputation matter.
Do I need to be present while they work?
Generally yes, for several reasons: you need to authorise any additional work discovered, make payment, and provide access to your vehicle. Some mobile mechanics (once you’ve built trust) will collect keys and work while you’re at work, but this requires established relationship and proper insurance. First-time jobs almost always require your presence.
What about parts – should I buy them or should the mechanic?
You have options. If the mechanic supplies parts, they typically add 20-30% markup (covering sourcing, warranty, and risk). This includes warranty on both parts and fitting. If you supply parts, you save the markup but bear responsibility if parts are wrong or faulty, and warranty may only cover labour. For specialist or performance parts, you might prefer to source them yourself. Discuss this upfront with your mechanic.
Can mobile mechanics do MOT tests?
No – MOTs must legally be conducted at approved MOT testing stations. However, mobile mechanics can do pre-MOT inspections (identifying likely failures), collect your car and take it for MOT, fix MOT failures at your home, and advise on preparation. Many offer “MOT collection and return” services where they handle the test centre visit for you.
What if I’m not satisfied with the work?
Communicate concerns immediately with your mobile mechanic. Reputable mechanics offer warranties (typically 6-12 months on parts and labour) and want to resolve issues. If work fails or problems arise, contact them first to give opportunity to fix it. Most issues stem from miscommunication and are resolved quickly. Keep all paperwork, take photos if relevant, and if resolution isn’t possible, reviews help other users make informed choices.
Should my mobile mechanic have insurance?
Absolutely. Professional mobile mechanics carry public liability insurance (covering damage to your property), professional indemnity insurance (covering mistakes), and tool insurance. They should also have proper business vehicle insurance. Don’t be shy about asking to see insurance certificates – legitimate mechanics expect this question and have documentation ready.
How far will mobile mechanics travel?
Most mobile mechanics work within a 15-20 mile radius, though this varies. Rural mechanics often cover larger areas. Check the mechanic’s profile for their service area. For locations outside their normal range, expect additional call-out fees or mileage charges (typically £0.45-£1.00 per mile beyond their included radius). Emergency call-outs might have wider coverage but higher fees.
Frequently Asked Questions for Mobile Mechanics
Do I need professional qualifications to join?
While Trader Street doesn’t mandate specific qualifications (we facilitate connections rather than verify credentials), car owners expect and deserve qualified mechanics. To build a successful mobile mechanic business, you should have recognised qualifications like City & Guilds Level 2 minimum (Level 3 preferred), IMI certification, or equivalent NVQ qualifications. For Gas Safe work on LPG systems, you need automotive Gas Safe registration. For EV/hybrid work, IMI Level 3 certification for high-voltage systems is legally required. Display your qualifications prominently on your profile – they’re your credibility.
How do I set competitive rates?
Research local mobile mechanic rates. London/South East typically charges £50-£80/hour; major cities £40-£65/hour; regional areas £35-£55/hour; rural areas £30-£50/hour. Consider your experience, qualifications, and overheads. Calculate your true hourly cost (van, insurance, tools, fuel, taxes) then add profit margin. Don’t undervalue yourself – competing solely on price attracts problem customers. Compete on quality, reliability, and service instead. Review and adjust rates based on demand – if you’re fully booked weeks ahead, your rates are too low.
What about liability and insurance?
You’re responsible for your own insurance and liability. We strongly recommend comprehensive public liability insurance (minimum £2 million coverage) and, if employing others, employer’s liability insurance. Professional indemnity insurance is also advisable. Homeowners will often ask to see proof of insurance before hiring.
What insurance do I need?
You absolutely need: Public Liability Insurance (£1-£5 million coverage, costs £400-£1,200 annually), covering damage to customer property; Professional Indemnity Insurance (£1-£2 million coverage, costs £500-£1,500 annually), covering mistakes in your work; Tools Insurance (£200-£600 annually), covering theft/damage; and Business Van Insurance (£800-£2,500 annually), specified for business use carrying tools. Some customers also request to see certificates, so keep copies accessible. Never work without proper insurance – one major mistake could bankrupt you personally.
How do I handle difficult clients or complaints?
Stay calm and professional always. Listen to their concern completely before responding. If you’ve made a mistake, acknowledge it and offer to fix it at no charge. If the complaint seems unreasonable, explain your position calmly with evidence (photos, industry standards, manufacturer specifications). Offer compromise where possible. Document everything in writing. For payment disputes, having clear written quotes and invoices protects you. Sometimes you can’t please everyone – one bad review won’t sink your business if you have dozens of five-star reviews. Respond to negative reviews professionally, showing how you attempted resolution.
Should I bring my own supplies or use the client’s?
Always bring your own consumables (oils, brake fluid, coolant, cleaning products). For major parts (batteries, brake pads, filters), you have two options: supply them yourself with 20-30% markup, or let customers source them (no markup for you but you bear less risk). Discuss this upfront. Never use customer-supplied products you’re uncomfortable with (wrong specification, questionable quality). Your reputation is on the line if work fails, regardless of whose parts were used. Most established mobile mechanics supply everything – it’s simpler and more professional.
How do I grow my client base?
Deliver exceptional service consistently – word-of-mouth is still the best marketing. Ask satisfied customers for reviews on your Trader Street profile and Google Business Profile. Offer service reminders (text customers 6 months after service suggesting time for next one). Consider introductory offers for first-time customers (10% off first service). Join local Facebook groups and community forums (follow rules about self-promotion). Get professional van signage and business cards. Build relationships – one happy customer often refers 5-10 others over time. Focus on repeat customers rather than constantly chasing new ones.
What services should I offer?
Start with services you’re confident doing without garage facilities: servicing, oil changes, brake work, batteries, diagnostics, minor electrical repairs. Be honest about limitations (major gearbox work, welding, MOTs, AC regas often need garage facilities). Consider specialising once established – EV/hybrid vehicles, classic cars, specific manufacturers, or fleet servicing all command premium rates. List every service you’re comfortable with, but never overpromise. Better to decline a job than bodge it and damage your reputation.
How should I handle keys and access to clients’ homes?
First-time customers: Complete work while they’re present. Once trust is established (after 2-3 successful jobs), some customers might give you keys to work while they’re at work. If accepting keys: Take photos showing vehicle condition before and after work, return keys same day unless specifically agreed otherwise, never make copies (illegal and immoral), respect their property (use protective mats, no eating/drinking in vehicles), and have clear agreement about access and timing in writing. Some mechanics never take keys as policy – that’s fine too. Always have proper insurance covering key holder liability.
What about payment disputes?
Prevent disputes by: Getting written approval for all work before starting, providing itemised written quotes, explaining any additional work discovered and getting approval before proceeding, and taking photos of problems showing customer what needs fixing. If disputes arise: Stay professional, provide evidence (your quote, photos, receipts for parts), refer to industry standard labour times and parts costs, and offer compromise if reasonable. For serious disputes, small claims court is available for amounts under £10,000, but this should be last resort. Detailed paperwork prevents most disputes.
Can I refuse certain types of jobs?
Absolutely. You’re self-employed – you choose which work you accept. Common reasons to decline: Outside your expertise (specialist systems, unfamiliar vehicles), not feasible on driveways (major structural work, welding), unsafe working conditions (busy road, unstable vehicle), difficult customer (gut feeling, previous bad behaviour), or simply too busy. Be polite when declining: “That’s not my speciality, but I can recommend someone,” or “I’m fully booked for the next two weeks, sorry I can’t help this time.” Never take work you’re not confident completing properly – your reputation is more valuable than one job.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you’re looking for a trustworthy, qualified mobile mechanic or ready to turn your automotive expertise into a growing business, Trader Street makes it simple to connect with your local community.
For Car Owners: Find skilled professionals who value quality workmanship and fair pricing. No more wasted days at garages or inflated platform fees.
For Mobile Mechanics: Connect with car owners who value expertise and transparency. Keep 100% of your earnings and build the business you want.
Join Trader Street today and discover the smarter way to find or offer mobile mechanic services in your community.