Apr 19, 2026·5 min read
What is a core charge in auto repair? A mechanic's guide (2026)
Core charges are refundable deposits on remanufactured auto parts. Here's what they cover, why they exist, how much they cost, and how to get your money back.
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Guides, data, and hard numbers for independent auto repair shops. Stop losing money on forgotten core returns.
Core charges are refundable deposits on remanufactured auto parts. Here's what they cover, why they exist, how much they cost, and how to get your money back.
Sticky notes, whiteboards, spreadsheets, shop management software, or a dedicated tool — here's what actually works for tracking core deposits in an independent auto repair shop.
We ran the numbers on how much independent auto repair shops lose to missed core deposits every year. The answer is higher than most owners realize.