Small Engine Repair
undefined
Overview
Small engine repair services fix lawn mowers, trimmers, chainsaws, generators, and outdoor power equipment.
With 75M+ US homeowners and power equipment essential, repair generates revenue of $95,000-$340,000 with 65-80% margins.
The business requires shop space, tools and equipment, parts inventory, engine knowledge, and seasonal flexibility.
Services include lawn mower repair and tune-ups, trimmer and blower repair, chainsaw service, generator repair, winterization and storage, and sharpening services.
Pricing typically $50-$150 per repair plus parts.
Success factors include spring seasonal preparation, offering pickup/delivery, stocking parts for common brands, quick turnaround during peak season, and winterization services.
Most operate seasonally with spring/summer peaks.
Marketing focuses on spring timing, local community, and partnerships with equipment dealers.
With outdoor power equipment essential for property maintenance in 2025, small engine repair offers mechanical opportunities with seasonal demand.
Required Skills
- Small engine mechanics
- Carburetor and fuel systems
- Two-stroke and four-stroke engines
- Electrical systems
- Blade sharpening
- Multiple brand knowledge
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Seasonal high demand
- Good margins
- Shop-based or mobile
- Sharpen blade add-on revenue
- Equipment dealer partnerships
Cons
- Highly seasonal
- Spring overwhelm
- Off-season slow
- Parts inventory
- Outdoor equipment storage
How to Get Started
- Learn small engine repair
- Set up shop space
- Stock parts for common brands
- Prepare for spring surge
- Offer pickup/delivery
- Partner with dealers
- Add sharpening services
Explore More Appliance Repair Services Ideas
Discover additional business opportunities in this category.
View All Appliance Repair Services Ideas →