Customer receiver, car workshop

What does a service advisor in a car workshop do? – Tasks and work environment

A service advisor in a car workshop acts as the vital link between the workshop's technicians and customers. Tasks include receiving customers, booking service and repairs, handling quotes, informing about the status of ongoing work, invoicing, and managing complaints. The work often takes place in a high-paced environment where clear communication and good service are crucial. The service advisor is also responsible for ensuring that customer needs and expectations are met while optimizing the workshop's workflow.

Salary development over time

The salary for a service advisor in a car workshop has shown a dynamic development in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 39,400 SEK per month, increasing to 42 800 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has stabilized at 42 200 SEK. This development corresponds to an increase of about 7% from 2022 to 2023, followed by a slight decrease of 1.4% between 2023 and 2024. The changes reflect both increased demand for qualified customer service and some market adjustments after a period of salary growth. The high average salary also indicates that the profession is highly valued, likely due to its central role in customer satisfaction and workshop efficiency.

Service advisor, car workshop salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 42 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 41,600 SEK/month (men), 42,400 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 54,400 SEK/month (men), 42,900 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 254 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Women earn 103% of what men do
• Regional differences: Data varies, but major cities tend to offer higher salaries

Education and qualifications

To work as a service advisor in a car workshop, a high school education is usually required, often within vehicle or business programs, supplemented with experience from service roles. Some employers require post-secondary education in administration or technical fields, especially for more advanced roles. Practical skills and personal suitability are often highly valued in recruitment, and internal training is frequently offered to develop specialized competence.

• High school education: Vehicle or business programs (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: YH/KY in administration or technical fields (1–2 years)
• Certifications: Courses in customer service, work environment, and IT systems
• Internship/trainee: Common to gain practical experience
• Personal qualities: Service-minded, stress-resistant, and technically interested

Common benefits and compensations

Service advisors in car workshops are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, occupational pension, staff discounts on workshop services, and opportunities for further training. Other common compensations include bonuses linked to customer satisfaction or sales, as well as compensation for unsociable hours during evening or weekend work.

Competition and challenges

The competition for service advisor positions in car workshops can vary depending on the region and the size of the workshop. Larger cities offer more opportunities but also more applicants, while smaller towns may have difficulty finding qualified personnel. Challenges in the profession include managing stressful periods with high customer load, staying updated on vehicle technology and digital booking systems, and balancing demands from both customers and technicians. Effective communication and prioritization skills are essential for success in the role.

Tips for those who want to become a service advisor in a car workshop

To succeed as a service advisor in a car workshop, it is good to develop a strong service mindset and the ability to interact professionally with customers. Accuracy is important for handling bookings and invoicing without errors, while flexibility is needed to quickly switch between different tasks. Being stress-resistant during busy periods and having a genuine interest in vehicle technology facilitate both customer contact and dialogue with workshop staff. Good teamwork skills make it easier to work in a team, and technical curiosity helps to understand customer problems and explain solutions clearly. Continuing education in service and IT systems is an advantage to stay competitive in the profession.

Key facts about service advisors in a car workshop

• Education level: High school or post-secondary education
• Work environment: Customer-oriented and often fast-paced
• Typical work form: Full-time, daytime but sometimes evening and weekend work
• Demand: 550 job openings within the occupational group
• Special skills: Digital booking systems, customer service, basic vehicle technology

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a service advisor in a car workshop, opportunities open to advance to team leader, workshop manager, or administrative responsible within larger organizations. With experience and further education, roles such as customer relations manager or salesperson for workshop services can also become relevant. The prognosis from the Employment Service indicates continued good demand, especially with technological shifts within the automotive industry and increased requirements for professional customer service. The profession thus offers stable future prospects, particularly for those who develop both technical and communicative skills.

Frequently asked questions about service advisors in a car workshop

• What does a service advisor in a car workshop earn?
  - The average salary is 42 200 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience and region.
• How do gender differences look within the profession?
  - Women earn on average 103% of what men do, which indicates a slightly higher average salary for women.
• What education is required to become a service advisor in a car workshop?
  - High school education in vehicle or business programs is most common, sometimes supplemented with post-secondary education.
• Are there many job openings in the profession?
  - Yes, approximately 550 job openings are available according to current statistics.
• What are common tasks for a service advisor in a car workshop?
  - Scheduling, customer reception, information, invoicing, and contact with workshop technicians.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a service advisor in a car workshop?
  - The highest salary is 54,400 SEK (men) and 42,900 SEK (women); the lowest salary is 41,600 SEK (men) and 42,400 SEK (women).
• What is the work environment like for a service advisor in a car workshop?
  - The work environment is often fast-paced, customer-oriented, and requires service skills and flexibility.