Car mechanic profile on Websta: guide for Belgium

What to include on your profile page

Your Websta profile works like a website and a booking tool combined. Start with a clear description of what you do - whether that is general maintenance, diagnostics, engine work, or repairs on specific vehicle makes. Be specific about the types of work you handle and the vehicle brands you work on.

Add photos of your workspace, tools, and completed work if you can. Customers want to see where their car will be serviced. A photo of your workshop interior, your diagnostic equipment, or a car mid-repair builds confidence. Make sure photos are clear and show the space as it is.

List the services you offer with descriptions. Examples: oil and filter change, brake pad replacement, engine diagnostics, suspension repair, electrical fault-finding, MOT preparation. Describe what each service includes so customers understand what they are paying for.

Set up a contact form and quote request option. Many customers will ask for a quote before booking, especially for repairs where the cost depends on what you find. A quote request lets them describe their problem and you can respond with a price. You can also offer online booking for services like scheduled maintenance where the price is set in advance.

• Write service descriptions in plain language, not technical jargon
• Include your location so customers know if you are nearby
• State your opening hours clearly
• Add photos of your workspace and tools if possible

Languages to publish in Belgium

Belgium has three official languages. In Flanders (the northern part), Dutch is spoken. In Wallonia (the south), French is spoken. In Brussels, both Dutch and French are widely used. A small German-speaking community lives in the eastern Ardennes.

If you work in Flanders, publish your profile in Dutch. If you work in Wallonia, use French. If you work in Brussels or near the language border, consider both Dutch and French. This ensures customers in your area can read your profile in the language they use.

You do not need to translate everything word-for-word. Focus on the key sections: your service list, opening hours, location, and contact details. Write your description of what you do and how to reach you in the language your local customers speak.

How customers search for mechanics in Belgium

People looking for a car mechanic in Belgium will use Websta's marketplace to search by service and place. They type in the town or area where they live or where they want their car serviced, then browse mechanics nearby. They may search for a specific service - for example, 'brake repair Brussels' or 'oil change Ghent' - or look at all mechanics in their area.

Customers also post tasks on the marketplace describing their repair need. Mechanics in that area see the task and can make offers. This works well for jobs where the customer is not sure of the cost and wants multiple quotes.

Make sure your profile shows your town or city and the area you cover. If you only work in one location, say so. If you travel to customers or cover multiple towns, be clear about where you go. This helps the right customers find you.

Setting up as an independent mechanic in Belgium

If you work as a sole trader (self-employed) or run your own business, you need to be registered with the Belgian authorities. Most mechanics register as self-employed or run a small limited company. Check with your local regional government (Flanders, Wallonia, or Brussels) about the registration process for your area, as this differs by region.

You will need to register for VAT if your annual turnover exceeds a certain threshold; check what that threshold is with your tax office or an accountant. Keep records of your income and expenses for tax purposes.

Websta uses Stripe to process card payments. Money goes directly to your own bank account. You set your own prices for services and quotes. Make sure your bank account is in your name or your business name, as this is what Stripe requires.

Check with your insurance provider whether you need professional liability insurance. Many mechanics carry this to cover damage or injury that might happen during work. Also check if you need any trade licenses or permits to operate as a mechanic in your region - requirements vary.

• Register as self-employed or a business with your regional authority
• Check VAT registration thresholds with your tax office
• Set up a business bank account for Stripe payments
• Confirm insurance and permit requirements with local authorities

What to write in your first hour

Start by filling in the basic details: your name, the town where you work, and your phone number. Add your opening hours - days of the week and times you are available. This is the first thing customers check.

Write a short description of what you do. Example: 'I repair and service cars of all makes. I do diagnostics, engine work, brakes, suspension, and electrical repairs.' Keep it short and clear. You can expand this later.

List five to ten services you most often do. For each one, write one sentence explaining what it includes. Example: 'Brake pad replacement - includes inspection of discs and calipers, replacement of pads, and test drive.' Be realistic about what you can offer.

Add one or two photos if you have them - your workshop or a work area. If not, you can add photos later. A profile without photos will still work, but photos help customers decide.

Set your contact method: quote request, phone, or booking form. Start with quote request if most of your work requires diagnosis first. This gives you a chance to respond with a price before the customer commits.

After the first hour

Once your profile is live, check it on your phone to see how it looks to customers. Make sure the text is easy to read and your contact details are correct.

Respond quickly to quote requests and messages. Customers expect a reply within a day or two. Use this time to ask questions about what the car needs so you can give an accurate quote.

Add more photos over time - your workspace, tools, or before-and-after shots of repairs. This builds trust.

Update your opening hours if they change with the seasons or for holidays. Keep your service list current with what you actually offer.