As the average age of vehicles in the US surpasses 12 years—14 years for passenger cars, according to a 2024 S&P Global Mobility report—Americans are increasingly relying on auto repair shops to keep their vehicles running, Wyoming News Now reports.
This trend has spurred growth in the automotive repair industry, especially in states like Wyoming, where residents heavily depend on their vehicles.
With the cost of new vehicles exceeding $48,000 on average, according to Kelley Blue Book, and used vehicle prices reaching record highs, many Americans are opting to repair rather than replace their cars. These financial pressures, coupled with longer vehicle lifespans, are driving the demand for automotive repair and maintenance services.
Across the US, more than 176,000 auto repair shops employed over 1 million people in 2024, collectively earning $13.5 billion in wages in the first quarter alone. Passenger vehicles account for 34.4% of all automotive repairs, highlighting their critical role in the repair market.
Wyoming, with its expansive rural areas and reliance on personal vehicles, has seen a notable concentration of auto repair shops across its counties. Mechanics in these establishments provide essential services, from routine maintenance to advanced repairs, ensuring vehicles remain operational in a state where public transportation options are limited.
The distribution of repair shops varies widely across Wyoming, with some counties having a significantly higher concentration of establishments per 100,000 people. This reflects local demand and the importance of vehicle upkeep in everyday life.
