Some auto repair operations are a service department hosted by auto parts stores. Examples include Pep Boys, Walmart, and Sears Auto Center.

There are also independently owned and operated businesses, and regional or national chains and franchises. Examples of chains and franchises include Midas and Firestone Complete Auto Care.

A third type of repair shop is the service departments of car dealerships. These shops are the only ones authorized to perform warranty and recall repairs by the manufacturers and distributors, except in the European Union.

Several specialty repair shops, such as those specializing in mufflers, brakes, and shocks, are in Cedar Rapids too.

Automobile repair shops can be specialty shops like Brake shops, muffler shops, transmission specialists, body shop, tire shops and automobile electrification shops. Examples include MAACO and AAMCO. There are also independently-owned specialists who work only on specific makes of cars, such as European car specialists and BMW repair specialists.