Is it okay to take card numbers over the phone?▼
It's risky. When advisors write card numbers down or type them into notes, those numbers end up in places that are hard to protect, and your PCI DSS scope grows. Most shop management systems and processors now support text-to-pay or hosted payment links, where the customer enters the card on their own phone and the data goes straight to the processor. We help you switch, train advisors on the new flow and isolate the card readers you keep at the counter.
Should our scan tools and alignment machine be on the same network as the counter?▼
No. Diagnostic tools, alignment machines, ADAS calibration rigs and tire machines that connect to the internet should sit on their own network zone. Those devices often run older software their manufacturers control, and they shouldn't be reachable from customer Wi-Fi or a phished counter PC. We set up that separation and controlled remote access for equipment vendors. Software updates and repairs inside the equipment stay with the manufacturer's support team.
Do you support Tekmetric, Shopmonkey and Mitchell 1?▼
Yes, on the IT side. We set up users and roles, enable MFA where available, connect integrations with parts catalogs, accounting and inspection tools, and keep the counter PCs, tablets and network those platforms depend on running well. The software vendors still support their own product features. When something breaks, we figure out whether it's the device, the network, the account or the vendor, and we follow up with the vendor if needed.
What PCI DSS requirements apply to a repair shop?▼
If you accept cards, your processor will ask you to complete an annual self-assessment questionnaire. Which one depends on how you take payments: standalone card readers, integrated terminals, text-to-pay links or keyed entry. The more card data you keep out of your own systems, the shorter and simpler that questionnaire becomes. We help you pick payment methods that narrow scope, isolate payment devices on your network and answer the questions accurately. Your processor decides what's required for your account.
How do we protect customers from fake texts that look like ours?▼
Consistency is your best defense. Send inspection and payment links only through your shop management system's branded messaging, use the same wording each time and tell customers at drop-off how you'll contact them and that you never ask for card numbers by text reply. We also publish DMARC so criminals can't send email as your shop. If customers report a fake message, we help you warn others and report the sender to the carrier.
Can you support shops with several locations?▼
Yes. We standardize the network design, counter setup, payment configuration and accounts across locations so every shop works the same way and support stays predictable. Monitoring and help desk support are remote, and hands-on installs are handled locally near our offices or by a vetted local technician directed by our engineer. Multi-location shops also benefit from centralized user management, so an advisor who moves between stores doesn't need a pile of separate logins.
Do you provide Tire & Auto Service Shops IT Services in Houston and nearby areas?▼
Yes. LayerLogix is based in the Greater Houston area and delivers tire & auto service shops IT services to businesses across Houston and the surrounding communities, including The Woodlands, Spring, Katy, Sugar Land, Conroe, Cypress, and Pearland. For most Houston-area clients we can be on-site the same day when something needs hands-on attention, and our help desk is available during business hours, with after-hours emergency support. Call 713-571-2390 to check coverage for your specific address.
What does Tire & Auto Service Shops IT Services cost for a Houston business?▼
Pricing depends on your size and what you need, so we do not publish a one-size-fits-all number — but Houston businesses generally pay a flat, predictable monthly fee rather than surprise hourly bills. We start with a free, no-obligation assessment of your current setup, then give you a clear quote in plain English with no hidden costs. That way you know exactly what you are getting and what it costs before you commit.