FAQ's

Find clear answers to common questions about shop equipment, safety, and service. This FAQ is designed to help you understand inspection requirements, maintenance best practices, and how to choose the right equipment for your facility—so you can operate with confidence, stay compliant, and keep your shop running efficiently.

Mechanic wearing black gloves writing on a clipboard while inspecting a car engine with the hood open.

Equipment Safety & Compliance

Q:

What happens if my lift fails an inspection?

A:

If a lift does not meet safety or operational standards, the technician will document the issues and recommend corrective actions. Repairs should be completed before the lift is returned to service to reduce liability, prevent accidents, and avoid further equipment damage.

Q:

Are automotive lift inspections required by OSHA?

A:

OSHA requires employers to provide a safe working environment, which includes maintaining and inspecting shop equipment.

While OSHA does not mandate a specific inspection interval, annual lift inspections are widely recognized as a best practice and are recommended by the Automotive Lift Institute to demonstrate compliance and due diligence.

Q:

How often should I have my automotive lift inspected?

A:

For safety, compliance, and maximum uptime, automotive lifts should be inspected at least once per year by a certified technician.

AutoTech Solutions provides Annual Automotive Lift Inspections that meet OSHA and ALI (Automotive Lift Institute) standards, helping you identify wear, correct adjustments, and prevent failures before they impact your shop’s productivity. Regular inspections also support a safer work environment and help extend the life of your lift equipment.

Equipment Selection & Shop Planning

Q:

How long does new shop equipment typically last?

A:

With proper installation, routine inspections, and ongoing maintenance, most shop equipment can remain in service for many years. Lifespan depends on usage, environment, and how well maintenance schedules are followed.

Q:

Can AutoTech Solutions help plan equipment layout for a new or expanding shop?

A:

Yes. Proper equipment layout improves workflow, technician efficiency, and safety. Planning support can help determine lift placement, compressor location, and service clearances to make the most of available space while meeting operational needs.

Q:

How do I know what size or type of lift(s) I need for my shop?‍

A:

The right lift depends on the vehicles you service, your ceiling height, and how the space is used. Passenger vehicles typically require two-post or four-post lifts, while trucks and fleets may need heavy-duty or mobile column lifts. A professional site assessment helps ensure the lift fits both your workflow and safety requirements.

Preventative Maintenance & Service

Q:

Why is preventative maintenance better than reactive repairs?‍

A:

Preventative maintenance helps avoid unexpected failures, emergency service calls, and lost productivity. Addressing issues early is usually less expensive than repairing major damage and helps keep your shop running safely and efficiently.

Q:

What is included in a preventative maintenance program?

A:

A preventative maintenance program typically includes scheduled inspections, lubrication, adjustments, wear checks, and replacement of serviceable components. The goal is to identify small issues early, reduce downtime, and extend the life of your shop equipment.

Q:

How often should I have planned maintenance performed on my air compressor?

A:

To keep your compressor running efficiently and avoid unexpected downtime, planned maintenance should be scheduled bi-annually (every 6 months) for most shop environments.

AutoTech Solutions’ Preventative Maintenance Programs include Bi-Annual Air Compressor Service with routine checks, filter replacements, oil changes (if applicable), and wear inspections. This proactive approach maintains clean airflow, improves performance, and reduces costly repairs.

Q:

How do I know what size or type of lift(s) do I need for my shop?

A:

Choosing the right lift depends on your vehicle types, service volume, and workspace layout. Start by reviewing the weight and clearance requirements of the vehicles you’ll be servicing (e.g., light duty vs. heavy duty).

Two-post lifts are common for general repair shops, four-post lifts are ideal for storage and alignment work, and heavy-duty or mobile column lifts support larger trucks and fleet vehicles. AutoTech Solutions’ team can assess your facility and recommend the best lift solution tailored to your workflow, ceiling height, and service goals, ensuring safe operation and efficient use of space.