
ARI vs Shopmonkey:
Which software is
best? [compared in
2025]
Faced with choosing between ARI and Shopmonkey for your car repair business? Our comparison digs into the key features and differences to help you make an informed decision.
Software for your business
In the auto repair world, juggling repairs, parts, and customer service can feel overwhelming. ARI and Shopmonkey offer tailored solutions to ease this load. Now, imagine a tool that merges ARI's and Shopmonkey's best features. Enter Vev, designed to simplify your workflow even further. We'll explore how these software options tackle industry challenges, making your choice clearer.
ARI (Auto Repair Software) vs Shopmonkey
ARI (Auto Repair Software) | Shopmonkey | |
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Pricing
ARI (Auto Repair Software) | Shopmonkey | |
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Pricing | $39.99 - $59.99 | $179 - $427 |
Features
ARI (Auto Repair Software) | Shopmonkey | |
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Pros & Cons
ARI (Auto Repair Software) | Shopmonkey | |
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Which is better?
Ultimately, ARI offers unmatched customization for seasoned users, while Shopmonkey shines with its user-friendly interface for newcomers. Your choice hinges on whether you value depth of features or ease of use more in streamlining your car repair business.
Have you considered Vev?
While ARI and Shopmonkey offer great solutions, Vev steps up with ever-updating software that improves based on your usage, making it a smarter choice daily. Plus, it's truly universal, working on any device you use with internet access. This means you can run your car repair business more efficiently from anywhere, without the hassle of updates or compatibility issues. Verv's commitment to constantly evolve and adapt to your needs offers a seamless, worry-free experience that could save time, work, and headaches, making it a strong alternative to consider.
Do you have a small business?
Expand and improve your small business. Vev has the tools to help you out.
Start for free, no credit card needed.

1. ARI (Auto Repair Software)
Who is it for
ARI (Auto Repair Software) is designed for car repairs. It offers a comprehensive suite of tools for managing client details, vehicles, inventory, and financial transactions.
Features Overview
ARI (Auto Repair Software) offers a wide array of functionalities tailored for car repairs, including Client Management, Vehicle Management, Inventory Management, Job Cards, Estimates, Invoices, Inspections, Appointments, Service Reminders, Accounting, Reports & Stats, OBD Scanner, Payments, Marketing, and Time Tracking.
Its user-centric design and budget-friendly subscription model aim to meet the intricate demands of auto repair businesses. While it lacks specific automotive collision and refinishing data, and importing certain information can be tedious, ARI's commitment to continuous enhancement and responsive customer support ensures its value for the auto repair sector.
Pricing
ARI pro $39.99/mo ARI pro plus $59.99/mo
$39.99 - $59.99
Website
Pros
- The software has seen significant improvements in recent years, offering a comprehensive feature set, ease of use, and an affordable monthly price.
- Continuous development and strong customer service further enhance its value.
- Integration features and electronic invoicing and estimates, which customers can approve via their phones, make it an excellent management program for the cost.
- Overall, it's been easy to use and a valuable asset to our company.
Cons
- While the software has many strengths, it lacks some automotive collision and refinishing references, which could be beneficial.
- Some information import features are lacking at times, and manually inputting detailed vehicle information can be challenging.
- Extended computer use may cause eye strain, and the abundance of options can feel overwhelming.
- Although the app has improved, there are still some bugs, and the online appointment system could be more intuitive.

2. Shopmonkey
Who is it for
Shopmonkey is designed for car repairs seeking a comprehensive management solution. It offers tools for drafting estimates, managing customer communications, tracking inventory, overseeing workflow, and empowering technicians.
Features overview
Shopmonkey offers a comprehensive toolkit for car repair management, integrating essential components such as Estimates, Customer Communications, Inventory, Workflow, Empower Techs, Team Management, Marketing Suite, Reporting, and Payment Processing into a single platform.
Its intuitive design enables easy navigation and management, allowing for the quick creation of accurate estimates that keep customers informed and engaged throughout the service process.
Communication is enhanced through text updates, ensuring customers are always in the loop. The platform also supports a range of promotional activities with tools like discounts and advanced search options.
Pricing
Basic Monkey, $179/mo, Clever Monkey, $292/mo, Genius Monkey, $427/mo Multi Shop: contact sales
$179 - $427
Website
Pros
- Easy integration and usage with seamless features and benefits.
- Customers appreciate the text message updates.
- The discount feature and the ability to search by various criteria are particularly useful.
- The software's user-friendly nature stands out and continues to improve, contributing to a calm and efficient shop office.
Cons
- Some users prefer a "pay per feature" model over bundled packages.
- Despite overall positive experiences, there have been occasional issues with tasks like calculating sales tax and markup pricing.
- For small and growing teams, maintaining organization and preventing customer communication from falling through the cracks can be a challenge.
- However, the company is responsive to addressing faults and providing support when needed.
Do you have a small business?
Expand and improve your small business. Vev has the tools to help you out.
Start for free, no credit card needed.