Should you hire a Mobile mechanic?

Mobile mechanics have become increasingly popular in recent years. The idea is simple: instead of taking your car to a repair garage, the mechanic comes to you. For anyone with a busy schedule, this sounds like the perfect solution. But is a mobile mechanic really worth it?

At Oxbys Autos, we’ve met countless customers who turned to us after issues with mobile mechanics — ranging from poor workmanship to disappearing altogether when something went wrong. Below, we break down the true pros and cons so you can make an informed decision.

The Pros of Using a Mobile Mechanic

✔ Convenience

There’s no doubt about it — the biggest selling point of a mobile mechanic is convenience. They can come to your home, workplace, or even roadside in some cases. If you’re short on time, this can be a huge benefit.

✔ Basic Repairs and Diagnostics Made Easy

For simple jobs like battery changes, brake pads, oil changes, and basic diagnostics, a mobile mechanic can be a quick and practical solution.

✔ Sometimes Cheaper

Since many mobile mechanics are self-employed and don’t have overhead costs like rent or staff, their pricing can sometimes be cheaper than a traditional workshop.

The Cons — And Why You Should Think Twice

While mobile mechanics can be useful, there are several risks that many drivers aren’t aware of until it’s too late.

❌ No Fixed Base or Workshop

Most mobile mechanics operate without a proper business base or physical garage.
This becomes a problem when:

• You need to return for a follow-up
• A repair wasn’t done correctly
• You want warranty support

Without a physical location, finding them again can be difficult or impossible. Especially when using platforms that link you to self employed mechanics.

❌ Difficult to Track Down if Something Goes Wrong

Unlike a garage with an established address and long-term presence, many mobile mechanics are simply self-employed individuals who may stop answering calls if something goes wrong.

If you experience:

• Faulty repairs
• Additional issues caused by poor workmanship
• Warranty claims

…you might find they’ve disappeared, changed numbers, or shut down the business entirely.

❌ Limited Tools & Equipment

A van, no matter how well kitted, can’t match a full workshop. This often leads to:

• Incomplete diagnostics
• Temporary fixes instead of proper repairs
• Inability to handle more complex issues
• Guesswork instead of precision

❌ Higher Risk of Going Out of Business

Because many mobile mechanics operate solo, the business can stop overnight — due to illness, lack of funds, or simply a decision to move on.
When that happens, your warranty disappears with them.

❌ No Lift, No Workshop, No Team

A professional garage has:

• Vehicle lifts for proper inspection
• Specialist tools
• A team of trained mechanics
• A stable business presence
• Accountability and insurance
• Proper service history recording
• Reliable warranties

A mobile mechanic simply cannot match the structure and safeguards a real workshop provides.

So… Is a Mobile Mechanic Worth It?

A mobile mechanic can be useful for very minor jobs or emergencies.
But for anything more than basic repairs, a professional garage offers:

• Better reliability
• Proper warranty support
• A physical location you can return to
• More accurate diagnostics
• Safer and more complete repairs

Convenience is great — but not at the expense of quality, safety, and long-term peace of mind.

Why Choose a Repair Garage Instead?

At Oxbys Autos, we offer something that mobile mechanics can’t match:

• A long-standing, trusted physical workshop
• Fully trained and insured technicians
• Warranty-backed repairs
• Advanced diagnostic equipment
• Honest pricing and transparent communication
• A reputation you can rely on

When your car needs work, choose stability, experience, and proper accountability — not a van that may not be there tomorrow. Always choose the safest option, many garages such as Oxbys Autos now provide free pickup and drop off services which is just as good!