Top 17 CRM Systems for Automotive Repair Businesses: Comparison of Features, Pricing, and Benefits

July 24, 2025 Element Automotive Marketing Agency Comments Off

You already know that Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems tailored for automotive repair shops can streamline your shop operations, enhance customer communication, and boost retention, ultimately driving revenue. Great! But, with numerous options available, choosing the right CRM depends on your shop’s size, specialization, and budget.

This article compares five top CRM systems for auto repair shops—Shopmonkey, AutoLeap, Mitchell1, Orderry, and Tekmetric) and 12 other CRMs suitable for auto repair shops use (You’ll want to read them all since they are unique, like the CRM that lives entirely in Gmail!)

By the end of the article you will know all the essentials about their functionality, pricing, and advantages for different shop types (independent, multi-location, specialty, and tire shops). We’ve incorporated CRMs distinct from each other and a comprehensive guide to help you select the best CRM for your shop.

1. Shopmonkey

Overview: Shopmonkey is a cloud-based, all-in-one shop management software designed for auto repair businesses, offering robust CRM features alongside scheduling, invoicing, and inventory tools. Its user-friendly interface makes it ideal for shops new to digital management.

Key Features

CRM Capabilities: Automated text/email reminders for appointments and follow-ups, customer history tracking, and personalized communication via integrated messaging.
Other Tools: Drag-and-drop calendar for scheduling, digital vehicle inspections (DVIs), estimate-to-invoice conversion, and real-time dashboards for performance tracking.
Integrations: Seamless integration with QuickBooks, parts suppliers (e.g., PartsTech), and payment systems.
Unique Feature: VIN/license plate scanning for quick vehicle data import, simplifying customer onboarding.

Pricing

Plans:
- Basic Monkey: $199/month (billed annually).
- Clever Monkey: $349/month.
- Genius Monkey: $499/month.
- Multi-Shop: Custom pricing.
Note: Advanced CRM features (e.g., e-signatures, inventory management) are only available in higher tiers.

Advantages for Shop Types

Independent Shops: User-friendly interface and affordable Basic plan suit small shops transitioning from paper-based systems.
Multi-Location Shops: Multi-Shop plan offers centralized management for multiple sites.
Specialty Shops: VIN scanning and parts ordering streamline workflows for niche repairs.
Tire Shops: Limited tire-specific features but supports general repair workflows.

Pros

Intuitive design with minimal learning curve.
Strong customer communication tools (e.g., automated reminders).
Real-time analytics for tracking profitability and technician efficiency.

Cons

Advanced features (e.g., inventory management) require premium plans.
Limited customization compared to competitors like Orderry.
Pricing can be high for small shops with basic needs.

Best For: Small to mid-sized shops seeking an easy-to-use, all-in-one solution with strong CRM and scheduling features.

2. AutoLeap

Overview: AutoLeap is a cloud-based shop management platform with a focus on CRM, designed to streamline operations and enhance customer satisfaction. Its robust integrations and support make it a top choice for growing shops.

Key Features

CRM Capabilities: Smart Review Management for collecting/responding to Google reviews, automated SMS/email reminders, and customer history tracking for personalized follow-ups.
Other Tools: One-Click Estimates that convert to invoices, digital vehicle inspections, productivity-tracking workboard, and integrated parts ordering.
Integrations: Strong with QuickBooks Online, Google Reviews, and parts suppliers, but third-party integrations can be challenging.
Unique Feature: Fleet management tools for shops servicing commercial vehicles.

Pricing

Plans: Custom pricing, typically $200–$500/month based on shop size and features (free demo available).
Note: Pricing is not publicly listed, requiring a demo for quotes.

Advantages for Shop Types

Independent Shops: Intuitive interface and review management suit small shops focused on customer retention.
Multi-Location Shops: Supports franchises with centralized reporting and task delegation.
Specialty Shops: Digital inspections and estimate tools work well for complex repairs.
Tire Shops: Quick tire lookup and ordering capabilities streamline tire-specific workflows.

Pros

Seamless QuickBooks integration for accounting.
Strong customer support and frequent updates.
Fleet management features for shops serving commercial clients.

Cons

Third-party integrations are less flexible than Shopmonkey or Mitchell1.
Pricing opacity can frustrate budget-conscious shops.
Some limitations with older vehicle data in vehicle management.

Best For: Growing shops and franchises prioritizing customer engagement and fleet management.

3. Mitchell1 (Manager SE)

Overview: Mitchell1’s Manager SE is a comprehensive shop management system with robust CRM features, known for its extensive repair database and parts catalog. It’s ideal for shops needing detailed repair information alongside CRM.

Key Features

CRM Capabilities: Customer database with service history, marketing tools for local listing updates, and automated follow-up emails. (Includes Business Management, Estimating, Service Writing, and more)
Other Tools: Over 180 reports for performance tracking, scheduling, productivity tracking, and a Parts Catalog with real-time pricing for specialty vehicles.
Integrations: Strong with ProDemand, SureTrack, QuickBooks, and parts databases.
Unique Feature: Extensive repair database for diagnostics, ideal for complex or specialty repairs.

Pricing

Plans: Starts at ~$129/month for basic features, with custom pricing for advanced modules (e.g., ProDemand integration).
Note: Desktop-based with IP restrictions, limiting remote access unless upgraded.

Advantages for Shop Types

Independent Shops: Comprehensive reports and repair database suit shops with diverse repair needs.
Multi-Location Shops: Less ideal due to desktop-based limitations, but integrations support scaling.
Specialty Shops: Parts Catalog and repair database excel for niche vehicles (e.g., heavy-duty trucks).
Tire Shops: Limited tire-specific features but supports general inventory management.

Pros

Extensive parts and repair database for accurate quotes.
Robust reporting for performance insights.
Trusted by thousands of shops for reliability.

Cons

Steeper learning curve due to advanced features.
Desktop-based system restricts off-site access.
Higher costs for full feature set and integrations.

Best For: Specialty shops and established businesses needing detailed repair data and reporting.

4. Orderry

Overview: Orderry is a cloud-based service management solution offering flexible CRM and inventory tools, designed for repair businesses with customizable workflows. It’s a cost-effective alternative to Shopmonkey. Unlike other CRMs designed exclusively for auto repair shops with many complex features, Orderry works well for any repair business, and is a bit simpler to use, which is perfect for 1-2 bay shops looking to scale without a complicated software.

Key Features

CRM Capabilities: Customer relationship management with automated communications, client history tracking, and review collection tools.
Other Tools: Work order management, inventory tracking with automated reordering, and detailed reporting for shop performance.
Integrations: Supports QuickBooks, parts suppliers, and customizable APIs for unique needs.
Unique Feature: Highly customizable workflows, ideal for shops with specific operational requirements.

Pricing

Plans: Tiered subscriptions starting at $39/month for basic features, up to $99/month for comprehensive packages (free 7-day trial).
Note: More affordable than competitors, with flexible pricing for small shops.

Advantages for Shop Types

Independent Shops: Affordable pricing and intuitive interface suit small budgets.
Multi-Location Shops: Customizable workflows support complex operations across sites.
Specialty Shops: Flexible features adapt to niche repair needs.
Tire Shops: Strong inventory tracking for tire stock management.

Pros

Cost-effective with competitive pricing.
Highly customizable for unique shop needs.
Excellent customer support, per user feedback.

Cons

Less tailored to automotive-specific needs compared to Shopmonkey or AutoLeap.
Fewer industry-specific integrations than competitors.
Learning curve for customization setup.

Best For: Small to mid-sized shops needing affordable, customizable solutions.

5. Tekmetric

Overview: Tekmetric is a cloud-based shop management software built by a former shop owner. It’s commonly used by shops in the industry and it integrates CRM, scheduling, invoicing, and other tools to streamline operations and boost revenue.

Key Features

CRM Capabilities: Customer management with detailed service history, automated reminders, and digital estimate/invoice sharing via SMS/email.
Marketing Features: Online booking, two-way texting, automated reminders, online review management and website creation.
Other Tools: Repair order management, digital inspections, real-time reporting, and technician time tracking.
Integrations: Connects with QuickBooks, parts suppliers, and Service Intelligence for maintenance reminders.
Unique Feature: Detailed analytics for shop performance and customer retention, with mobile-friendly access.

Pricing

Plans: Starts at $99/month for basic tier, up to $450/month for advanced features (no contract).
Note: Recent price increases and limited Canadian tax support have drawn criticism.

Advantages for Shop Types

Independent Shops: Affordable starter tier and user-friendly design suit small operations.
Multi-Location Shops: Cloud-based access and analytics support scaling.
Specialty Shops: Digital inspections and estimates work for complex repairs.
Tire Shops: General inventory tools, but less tire-specific than AutoLeap.

Pros

Clean, mobile-friendly interface for remote access.
Strong analytics for data-driven decisions.
No long-term contracts for flexibility.
Cloud-based and can access the platform from anywhere.
An all-in-one platform with shop management, payments, tires, and multi-shop functionality in one system.
70+ integrations to customize and streamline your workflows.
Highly responsive, U.S.-based support team.

Cons

Limited Canadian tax support (e.g., discounts).
Invoicing design and single-contact-per-customer limitations.

Best For: Scaling shops needing affordable, cloud-based CRM with analytics.

Comparison Table

CRM System	Key CRM Features	Pricing (Monthly)	Best For	Shop Type Fit
Shopmonkey	Automated reminders, customer history, messaging	$199–$499	Small to mid-sized shops	Independent, Multi-Shop
AutoLeap	Smart Review Management, SMS/email reminders	$200–$500 (custom)	Growing shops, franchises	Independent, Multi-Shop, Tire
Mitchell1	Customer database, marketing tools	~$129+	Specialty shops	Specialty, Independent
Orderry	Client tracking, automated communications	$39–$99	Budget-conscious shops	Independent, Multi-Shop, Tire
Tekmetric	Service history, digital estimates	$99–$450	Scaling shops	Independent, Multi-Shop

How to Choose the Right CRM

Independent Shops: Prioritize affordability and ease of use (Orderry, Tekmetric’s basic plan, or Shopmonkey’s Basic Monkey).
Multi-Location Shops: Look for centralized management and reporting (AutoLeap, Shopmonkey’s Multi-Shop, or Tekmetric).
Specialty Shops: Choose systems with robust repair databases or customization (Mitchell1, Orderry).
Tire Shops: Opt for tire-specific features like quick lookup (AutoLeap) or strong inventory tools (Orderry).
Budget Considerations: Start with Orderry or Tekmetric’s lower tiers for cost savings, or test AutoLeap/Shopmonkey with free demos.
Integration Needs: Ensure compatibility with QuickBooks, parts suppliers, or existing tools (all five integrate, but AutoLeap and Mitchell1 excel).

Practical Tips to Implement a CRM

Trial Before Buying: Test Shopmonkey, Orderry, or AutoLeap with free trials/demos to assess fit.
Train Staff: Use vendor-provided onboarding (e.g., AutoLeap’s support) to reduce learning curves.
Focus on CRM Features: Prioritize review collection (AutoLeap), automated reminders (Shopmonkey), or analytics (Tekmetric) to boost customer retention.
Track ROI: Monitor booking increases and customer retention rates post-CRM adoption using built-in analytics.
Integrate Reviews: Use AutoLeap or Shopmonkey to collect Google reviews, enhancing trust and conversions.

Other CRM software options for Auto Repair Shops

The 5 CRM options we mentioned first are made for, and focused on auto repair shops. But some may be expensive or have too many features! So, below you’ll find a list of the best CRM software options that can be used in an auto repair shop, even though they are not advertised as such.

6. HubSpot CRM

Overview:
HubSpot CRM is a comprehensive, free-to-start customer relationship management platform with powerful marketing automation tools. While not auto repair-specific, its flexibility and scalability make it suitable for shops looking to professionalize their customer communication and marketing efforts.

Key Features:

Contact management with detailed customer profiles and interaction history
Email marketing and automation with customizable templates
Deal pipeline management to track estimates and conversion rates
Live chat and chatbot functionality for website visitors
Task management and reminders for follow-ups
Reporting dashboards showing marketing ROI and sales performance
Integration with Gmail, Outlook, and 1,000+ business tools
Mobile app for managing customer relationships on the go

Pricing:

Free plan: Unlimited users, basic CRM features
Starter: $15/month per seat (includes email marketing, forms, and automation)
Professional: $800/month for 3 seats (advanced automation, custom reporting)
Enterprise: $3,600/month for 5 seats (predictive lead scoring, advanced permissions)

Pros:

Robust free version with no time limit or feature expiration
Excellent email marketing capabilities for sending service reminders and promotions
Easy to use with minimal learning curve
Scales from single-shop to multi-location operations
Strong integration ecosystem
Comprehensive training resources and documentation

Cons:

No auto repair-specific features (no parts inventory, no repair order management)
Professional and Enterprise tiers can be expensive for small shops
Marketing automation features require paid plans
May require additional tools for shop-specific workflows
Limited customization without technical knowledge

Best For: Shops that need strong customer communication and marketing automation but use separate software for repair orders and invoicing.

7. Zoho CRM

Overview:
Zoho CRM is a budget-friendly, feature-rich platform offering extensive customization options. Its modular approach allows auto repair shops to build a CRM system tailored to their specific needs without paying for unnecessary features.

Key Features:

Contact and deal management with custom fields
Sales automation and workflow rules
Email campaigns with A/B testing
Multi-channel communication (email, phone, social media, live chat)
AI assistant (Zia) for predictions and suggestions
Custom dashboards and reports
Mobile apps for iOS and Android
Integration with Zoho suite (Books, Inventory, Projects) and third-party apps
Canvas design studio for custom layouts

Pricing:

Free: Up to 3 users, basic CRM features
Standard: $14/user/month (workflow automation, custom reports)
Professional: $23/user/month (inventory management, custom modules)
Enterprise: $40/user/month (advanced customization, multi-user portals)
Ultimate: $52/user/month (advanced BI, custom functions)

Pros:

Highly affordable with comprehensive features at every tier
Extensive customization capabilities
AI-powered insights and predictions
Strong mobile app functionality
Can integrate with Zoho Books for invoicing
Multi-channel customer communication

Cons:

Steep learning curve for advanced features
Interface can feel cluttered with many options
No built-in repair order or parts management
Some features require Zoho ecosystem add-ons
Customer support can be slow on lower-tier plans

Best For: Shops comfortable with technology who want a highly customizable, affordable CRM that can grow with their business.

8. Salesforce Essentials / Starter

Overview:
Salesforce Essentials is the small business version of the world’s leading CRM platform. It brings enterprise-level capabilities to smaller auto repair operations, offering powerful automation and customer insights.

Key Features:

Complete customer view with interaction history
Opportunity and pipeline management
Email integration and tracking
Task and calendar management
Mobile app with offline access
Customizable reports and dashboards
AppExchange marketplace with thousands of integrations
Einstein AI for lead scoring and predictions (higher tiers)
Case management for service requests

Pricing:

Essentials: $25/user/month (up to 10 users)
Professional: $75/user/month
Enterprise: $150/user/month
Unlimited: $300/user/month

Pros:

Industry-leading CRM with proven track record
Excellent mobile app
Powerful reporting and analytics
Massive ecosystem of integrations and add-ons
Scales from small shop to enterprise
Strong security and reliability

Cons:

Expensive compared to alternatives
Essentials plan limited to 10 users
Steep learning curve
May require consultant/developer for advanced customization
No auto repair-specific features
Setup and configuration can be time-consuming

Best For: Growing multi-location shops or those planning significant expansion who need enterprise-grade CRM capabilities and can invest in proper implementation.

9. Pipedrive

Overview:
Pipedrive is a sales-focused CRM designed around visual pipeline management. Its simplicity and intuitive interface make it ideal for shops that want to track customer journeys from initial inquiry to repeat service without complexity.

Key Features:

Visual sales pipeline with drag-and-drop interface
Activity and goal tracking
Email integration with templates and tracking
Automated workflow and reminders
Web forms for capturing leads from website
Customizable fields and pipelines
Revenue forecasting
Mobile apps for iOS and Android
Integration with 300+ tools via Marketplace

Pricing:

Essential: $14/user/month (pipeline management, lead tracking)
Advanced: $29/user/month (email sync, automations, templates)
Professional: $59/user/month (team management, revenue forecasts)
Power: $69/user/month (project planning, phone support)
Enterprise: $99/user/month (unlimited customization, dedicated support)

Pros:

Extremely user-friendly and intuitive
Visual pipeline makes tracking easy
Affordable entry-level pricing
Quick setup and implementation
Good email integration
Strong mobile experience

Cons:

Limited marketing automation features
No built-in invoicing or payment processing
Reporting capabilities less robust than competitors
No auto repair-specific features
Advanced features require higher-tier plans
Limited customization compared to Salesforce or Zoho

Best For: Shops that want a simple, visual way to track customer relationships and convert estimates into booked services without overwhelming complexity.

10. Freshsales (formerly Freshworks CRM)

Overview:
Freshsales is a modern, AI-powered CRM with strong communication features and built-in phone system. Its focus on intelligent automation and multi-channel engagement makes it suitable for shops looking to improve customer communication efficiency.

Key Features:

AI-powered lead scoring (Freddy AI)
Built-in phone with click-to-call and call recording
Email tracking and sequences
Visual sales pipeline
Multi-channel communication (email, phone, chat, SMS)
Workflow automation
Custom reports and dashboards
Mobile apps with offline mode
Integration with Freshdesk for customer support

Pricing:

Free: Unlimited users, basic features
Growth: $15/user/month (AI contact scoring, workflows)
Pro: $39/user/month (sales sequences, multiple pipelines)
Enterprise: $69/user/month (custom modules, audit logs, forecasting)

Pros:

Generous free plan with unlimited users
Built-in calling system eliminates need for separate phone tool
AI features help prioritize follow-ups
Clean, modern interface
Strong email and communication tools
Affordable pricing across all tiers

Cons:

AI features limited on lower tiers
No auto repair-specific functionality
Reporting less comprehensive than enterprise platforms
Built-in phone system may not work in all regions
Limited third-party integrations compared to competitors

Best For: Shops that handle high volumes of phone inquiries and want AI assistance in prioritizing which customers to follow up with first.

11. Monday.com (Sales CRM)

Overview:
Monday.com‘s Sales CRM is a highly visual, collaborative platform built on the company’s popular work management system. Its flexibility and visual approach make it ideal for shops that want to customize their customer management process.

Key Features:

Visual boards with customizable columns and views
Contact and deal management
Email integration with templates
Automation and workflow rules
Custom dashboards and reporting
Mobile apps for iOS and Android
Integration with 200+ apps (Gmail, Outlook, Zapier)
Collaboration features for team communication
Activity timeline for customer interactions

Pricing:

Basic CRM: $12/seat/month (3 seats minimum)
Standard CRM: $17/seat/month (automation, integrations)
Pro CRM: $28/seat/month (time tracking, advanced reporting)
Enterprise: Custom pricing (advanced security, dedicated support)

Pros:

Extremely visual and intuitive
Highly customizable to fit any workflow
Excellent for team collaboration
Strong automation capabilities
Beautiful, modern interface
Can manage multiple aspects of business beyond just CRM

Cons:

3-seat minimum even for small operations
Can become expensive as team grows
Not specialized for auto repair
Learning curve for maximizing customization
No built-in calling or SMS features
Reporting less robust than dedicated CRM platforms

Best For: Visual thinkers and shops that want a flexible platform that can handle CRM, project management, and team collaboration in one system.

12. Insightly

Overview:
Insightly is a CRM platform designed for small to medium-sized businesses with strong project management capabilities. Its ability to link customer relationships to specific projects makes it suitable for shops tracking complex repairs or fleet accounts.

Key Features:

Contact and organization management
Project management linked to customer records
Pipeline and opportunity tracking
Email tracking and templates
Workflow automation
Custom fields and page layouts
Mobile apps for iOS and Android
Integration with G Suite, Office 365, and 500+ apps
Task management and reminders

Pricing:

Plus: $29/user/month (contact management, basic projects)
Professional: $49/user/month (workflow automation, custom branding)
Enterprise: $99/user/month (advanced customization, validation rules)

Pros:

Unique project management integration
Good for managing complex customer relationships
Strong customization options
Reasonable pricing for features offered
Good email integration
Reliable mobile apps

Cons:

No free plan (14-day trial only)
Higher starting price than competitors
Interface can feel dated compared to newer platforms
Limited marketing automation
No built-in phone system
Steeper learning curve for project features

Best For: Shops handling fleet accounts or complex repair projects that want to link customer relationships with ongoing service work.

13. Nimble

Overview:
Nimble is a “social CRM” that automatically enriches contact data from social media profiles and web sources. Its focus on relationship intelligence makes it ideal for shops that want to build personal connections with customers.

Key Features:

Social media integration (LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook)
Automatic contact enrichment with social profiles and company data
Unified inbox for emails and messages across platforms
Contact management with relationship history
Pipeline and deal tracking
Email tracking and templates
Task and calendar management
Mobile apps for iOS and Android
Browser extension for “CRM everywhere” functionality

Pricing:

Nimble Business: $24.90/user/month (annual billing)
No free plan (14-day trial available)

Pros:

Unique social media integration
Automatically enriches contact information
Browser extension works within Gmail, Outlook, LinkedIn
Simple, clean interface
Good for building personal customer relationships
Single pricing tier simplifies decision

Cons:

More expensive than some competitors
No free plan
Limited automation capabilities
Basic reporting functionality
No built-in invoicing or payment processing
Single pricing tier means no upgrade path for advanced features

Best For: Shops that emphasize personal customer relationships and want to track social media interactions alongside traditional CRM data.

14. Copper (formerly ProsperWorks)

Overview:
Copper is a CRM built specifically for Google Workspace users, offering seamless integration with Gmail, Google Calendar, and Google Drive. Its focus on reducing manual data entry makes it efficient for busy shop managers.

Key Features:

Deep Google Workspace integration
Automatic contact and activity capture from Gmail
Pipeline management with customizable stages
Task and project management
Email tracking and templates
Workflow automation
Mobile apps for iOS and Android
Integration with popular business tools
Chrome extension for quick access

Pricing:

Basic: $12/user/month (3-user minimum, basic pipeline management)
Professional: $29/user/month (workflow automation, advanced reporting)
Business: $69/user/month (custom fields, bulk emailing, advanced permissions)
Enterprise: $134/user/month (dedicated support, advanced security)

Pros:

Best-in-class Google Workspace integration
Reduces manual data entry significantly
Clean, intuitive interface
Works within Gmail inbox
Good mobile experience
Automatic activity logging

Cons:

Requires Google Workspace (not ideal for Microsoft 365 users)
3-user minimum even for small shops
Limited customization compared to competitors
No built-in phone or SMS features
Reporting capabilities less robust than enterprise platforms
Can become expensive for larger teams

Best For: Shops already using Google Workspace (Gmail, Google Calendar, Google Drive) who want seamless CRM integration without leaving their email inbox.

15. Keap (formerly Infusionsoft)

Overview:
Keap is a CRM with powerful marketing automation designed for small businesses. Its focus on automated follow-up sequences and appointment scheduling makes it valuable for shops wanting to reduce no-shows and improve customer retention.

Key Features:

Contact management with detailed customer profiles
Advanced marketing automation and email sequences
Appointment scheduling with calendar integration
Pipeline management and sales automation
Text message marketing (additional cost)
Payment processing and invoicing
Landing pages and web forms
Mobile app for iOS and Android
E-commerce capabilities

Pricing:

Lite: $249/month (2 users, 1,500 contacts, basic automation)
Pro: $349/month (3 users, 2,500 contacts, advanced automation)
Max: Custom pricing (unlimited users and contacts, dedicated support)
All plans include onboarding and training

Pros:

Powerful marketing automation
Appointment scheduling reduces no-shows
Payment processing built-in
Strong email marketing capabilities
Comprehensive onboarding and training included
Good for shops focused on customer retention

Cons:

Significantly more expensive than alternatives
Steep learning curve despite training
Overkill for shops just needing basic CRM
Text messaging costs extra
No free plan or free trial (demo only)
Can feel overwhelming with features

Best For: Established shops with marketing budgets who want sophisticated automation for customer retention campaigns and are willing to invest time in setup and training.

16. Streak

Overview:
Streak is a unique CRM that lives entirely within Gmail, making it the ultimate lightweight solution for shops that want customer management without leaving their email inbox.

Key Features:

Works 100% inside Gmail
Pipeline management with customizable stages
Email tracking (opens, clicks, views)
Mail merge for bulk personalized emails
Task reminders and scheduling
File sharing directly in email threads
Collaboration features for team
Mobile apps for iOS and Android
Integration with Google Sheets for reporting

Pricing:

Free: 1 user, 500 contacts, basic features
Solo: $15/user/month (unlimited pipelines, advanced features)
Pro: $49/user/month (team collaboration, reporting)
Enterprise: $129/user/month (data validation, API access)

Pros:

Extremely simple to learn and use
No separate platform to log into
Very affordable, including free plan
Perfect for Gmail users
Lightweight and fast
Good email tracking features

Cons:

Limited to Gmail users only
Very basic compared to full CRM platforms
No marketing automation
Limited reporting and analytics
No built-in phone or SMS
Not suitable for complex sales processes

Best For: Small shops or solo operators who live in Gmail and want simple customer tracking without the complexity of a full CRM platform.

17. Capsule CRM

Overview:
Capsule CRM is a straightforward, affordable platform focused on contact management and relationship tracking. Its simplicity and transparent pricing make it accessible for shops wanting to professionalize customer relationships without overwhelming features.

Key Features:

Contact and organization management
Sales pipeline tracking
Task and calendar management
Email integration and templates
Custom fields and tags
Basic reporting and dashboards
Mobile apps for iOS and Android
Integration with popular tools (Mailchimp, Xero, QuickBooks)
50 GB file storage included

Pricing:

Free: 2 users, 250 contacts
Starter: $18/user/month (30,000 contacts, custom fields)
Growth: $36/user/month (workflow automation, advanced permissions)
Advanced: $54/user/month (multiple pipelines, forecasting)
Ultimate: $72/user/month (unlimited storage, priority support)

Pros:

Simple, clean interface
Generous free plan for small shops
Transparent, predictable pricing
Easy to learn and implement
Good email integration
Affordable for multiple users

Cons:

Limited advanced features
Basic automation compared to competitors
No built-in marketing tools
Reporting capabilities are basic
No phone or SMS functionality
May outgrow it as business scales

Best For: Small to medium shops that want a clean, simple CRM for managing customer relationships and tracking opportunities without unnecessary complexity.

Comparison Table: General CRMs for Auto Repair Shops

CRM	Starting Price	Free Plan	Best Feature	Ideal Shop Size
HubSpot	Free	Yes	Marketing automation	All sizes
Zoho CRM	Free	Yes	Customization	Small to medium
Salesforce Essentials	$25/user/month	No	Scalability	Growing/Multi-location
Pipedrive	$14/user/month	No	Visual pipeline	Small to medium
Freshsales	Free	Yes	Built-in phone	All sizes
Monday.com	$12/seat/month	No	Visual collaboration	Small to medium
Insightly	$29/user/month	No	Project management	Medium
Nimble	$24.90/user/month	No	Social integration	Small to medium
Copper	$12/user/month	No	Google Workspace	Small to medium
Keap	$249/month	No	Marketing automation	Medium to large
Streak	Free	Yes	Gmail integration	Small/Solo
Capsule	Free	Yes	Simplicity	Small to medium

Choosing the Right General CRM for Your Auto Shop

While specialized auto repair software offers industry-specific features like repair order management and parts inventory, general CRMs excel at customer relationship management, marketing automation, and sales pipeline tracking.

Consider a general CRM if:

You already use separate software for repair orders and invoicing
You want powerful marketing automation for customer retention
You need advanced reporting and analytics
You’re planning significant business growth and need scalability
You want to integrate with a wide ecosystem of business tools

Key factors to evaluate:

Budget: Free plans (HubSpot, Zoho, Freshsales, Streak, Capsule) vs. paid-only options
Team size: Minimum user requirements and per-user pricing
Technical comfort: Simple (Streak, Capsule, Pipedrive) vs. complex (Salesforce, Zoho, Keap)
Existing tools: Gmail users (Streak, Copper), Google Workspace (Copper), Microsoft 365 (others)
Growth plans: Will you outgrow the platform in 2-3 years?

Pro tip: Most platforms offer free trials. Test 2-3 options with your actual customer data before committing to see which interface and workflow fits your shop’s daily operations best.

Conclusion

The right CRM can transform your auto repair shop by streamlining customer management and driving conversions. Shopmonkey excels for ease of use, AutoLeap for franchises and tire shops, Mitchell1 for specialty repairs, Orderry for budget-conscious shops, and Tekmetric for scaling businesses. Evaluate your shop’s size, specialization, and budget, then test a system with a free trial to find the best fit. Start with one of these CRMs today to boost customer loyalty and grow your revenue.