As a car repair shop owner, you’re likely juggling numerous tasks, from diagnosing tricky engine problems to ensuring customer satisfaction. Among these responsibilities, understanding business classifications might seem less critical, but it’s actually fundamental. One key classification system you need to be familiar with is the NAICS, or North American Industry Classification System. If you’ve ever asked, “what is my business code for auto repair shop?”, this guide is for you. We’ll break down the NAICS codes relevant to the auto repair industry, ensuring you classify your business correctly.
The NAICS is a standardized system used by federal statistical agencies in classifying business establishments for the purpose of collecting, analyzing, and publishing statistical data related to the U.S. business economy. For auto repair shops, selecting the correct NAICS code is important for various reasons, including permits, licenses, and even loan applications. Let’s explore the specific codes.
General Automotive Repair: NAICS Code 811111
If your auto repair shop offers a broad spectrum of services, tackling everything from engine overhauls to electrical diagnostics, NAICS code 811111 is likely your primary classification. This code, designated for “General Automotive Repair,” encompasses establishments providing a wide array of mechanical and electrical repair and maintenance services. This includes work on passenger cars, trucks, vans, and trailers, and crucially, engine repair and replacement.
Examples of services under NAICS 811111:
- Comprehensive car repair garages (excluding gas stations with repair services)
- Full-service automotive repair facilities
- Engine repair and replacement centers
- Brake services combined with general repair
- Tune-ups and general maintenance
Specialized Automotive Repair (Except Engine Repair): NAICS Code 811114
NAICS code 811114, “Specialized Automotive Repair,” applies to businesses focusing on specific areas of vehicle maintenance and repair, excluding engine repair and replacement. These shops specialize in particular systems or components of vehicles.
Examples of services under NAICS 811114:
- Brake repair specialists
- Suspension and alignment shops
- Exhaust system repair and replacement centers
- Automotive electrical system repair services
- Transmission repair shops
- Tune-up specialists (excluding engine repair)
- Muffler and exhaust system shops
- Air conditioning system repair
Automotive Body, Paint, and Interior Repair and Maintenance: NAICS Code 811121
For businesses specializing in the aesthetics and structural integrity of vehicles’ bodies, paint, and interiors, NAICS code 811121, “Automotive Body, Paint, and Interior Repair and Maintenance,” is the relevant category. This covers collision repair, bodywork, painting, and interior refurbishment.
Examples of services under NAICS 811121:
- Collision repair and auto body shops
- Frame straightening and body alignment services
- Custom automotive body conversion
- Antique and classic car restoration (body and paint)
- Automotive painting and refinishing services
- Interior repair and upholstery for vehicles
Automotive Glass Replacement: NAICS Code 811122
If your primary service is replacing and repairing automotive glass, such as windshields and windows, NAICS code 811122, “Automotive Glass Replacement Shops,” is the specific classification.
Examples of services under NAICS 811122:
- Windshield replacement and repair services
- Auto glass installation
- Window tinting (primarily related to glass replacement services)
- Repair of automotive glass chips and cracks
Oil Change and Lubrication Shops: NAICS Code 811191
Businesses that primarily focus on routine vehicle maintenance like oil changes and chassis lubrication fall under NAICS code 811191, “Oil Change and Lubrication Shops.” This code is for quick-lube style services.
Examples of services under NAICS 811191:
- Oil change and filter replacement services
- Chassis lubrication
- Fluid checks and top-offs (related to oil change services)
- Basic maintenance packages centered around oil changes
All Other Automotive Repair and Maintenance: NAICS Code 811198
NAICS code 811198, “All Other Automotive Repair and Maintenance,” is a catch-all category for automotive services not classified elsewhere. This includes specialized repairs that aren’t body, glass, or general mechanical, and excludes oil changes.
Examples of services under NAICS 811198:
- Automotive air-conditioning repair and service
- Tire repair (excluding retreading or sales)
- Rustproofing and undercoating applications
- Specialized diagnostic services (not tied to general repair)
- Car alarm and security system installation (if repair-focused)
Choosing the Right Code for Your Shop
Determining the correct NAICS code for your auto repair shop is crucial for accurate business classification. Carefully consider the primary services you offer. If you provide a wide range of repairs, including engine work, 811111 is likely appropriate. If you specialize in areas like brakes or transmissions (excluding engine work), 811114 fits. Body shops should use 811121, glass replacement businesses use 811122, and quick lube services use 811191. For other niche repair services, 811198 may be the answer.
Remember, this guide provides a general overview. For definitive classification, consult the official NAICS manual or seek advice from business advisors or your accountant. Correctly identifying “what is my business code for auto repair shop?” is a vital step in business administration, ensuring compliance and accurate representation of your services within the industry.
