What is the best free auto repair shop management software?
Pronto is a free, open-source auto repair shop management software that includes service order tracking, appointment booking, parts inventory with barcode scanning, client CRM and automated notifications via Email, Telegram, WhatsApp and Viber. The self-hosted version is free forever with no limits. The cloud version has a free tier and paid plans starting at $19/month.
Can clients book a service appointment without creating an account?
Yes. The public booking page only requires a name and phone number — no registration, no password, no app to download. Clients pick a time slot, describe the issue briefly, and the booking appears in your calendar instantly.
Can Pronto send clients a message when their car is ready?
Yes. Pronto sends automated notifications at key moments: booking confirmation, appointment reminder 24 hours before, and a ready-for-pickup message when the job is marked complete. All messages go via WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber or Email — whichever the client prefers.
Is Pronto an alternative to auto repair booking platforms?
Yes. Unlike marketplace platforms that take a percentage of every job and lock your client data into their ecosystem, Pronto charges zero commission. You own your client database completely. You can also self-host the entire system on your own server with no vendor lock-in of any kind.
Can I sell and track parts at my auto repair shop?
Yes. Pronto lets you add parts and materials to any job by scanning a barcode — inventory updates automatically. Set minimum stock levels and get an automatic alert when you're running low on brake pads, filters, oil or any other item. Services and parts invoiced at the same checkout, zero commission on everything.
How does Pronto handle service orders for auto repair shops?
Each appointment can be converted into a service order that tracks the vehicle, the work performed, parts used, labor time and total cost. When the job is complete, the client receives an automatic notification via WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber or Email.
Does Pronto work for shops with multiple mechanics?
Yes. The booking calendar shows each mechanic as a separate column. Clients can request a specific mechanic or book with whoever is available first. Appointments are protected against double-booking at the database level.
How do I install Pronto on my own server?
You need Docker on any Linux VPS, Windows or macOS machine with at least 1 GB RAM. Run docker compose up -d and the full auto repair shop management system starts automatically. No DevOps knowledge required. See the documentation on GitHub for step-by-step instructions.