Privacy Policy
Last updated: October 2026
1. Overview
Auto Repair IQ ("we," "our," or "us") operates the website at www.autorepairiq.repair. This Privacy Policy explains what information we collect when you visit our site, how we use it, and your rights regarding that information. By using our site you agree to the practices described here.
2. Information We Collect
We collect limited information:
- Hosting and server logs: Our host (Vercel) and standard web servers may record your IP address, browser type, referring URL, pages viewed, and visit time. We use this in aggregate to understand traffic and keep the site running.
- Site verification: We use a Google Search Console verification meta tag in our site code. That tag does not, by itself, install Google Analytics on pages we reviewed as of October 2026.
- Affiliate and third-party links: When you click outbound links (for example Amazon or Commission Junction partner merchants), those sites may set their own cookies or collect data under their policies. We do not control third-party sites.
- Affiliate tracking pixels: Some cost pages load small (typically 1×1) images from Commission Junction (CJ) domains when certain partner link blocks are shown. CJ uses these pixels for affiliate network reporting. Your browser requests the image like any other resource; we do not use those pixels to identify you by name or email on our servers.
We do not collect your name, email address, or other personally identifiable information unless you voluntarily email us.
Not found in code review: We did not find Google Analytics or Google AdSense scripts in the application source as of October 2026. AdSense markup exists only behind an environment variable that is not set in the reviewed configuration. If we add analytics or display ads later, we will update this policy.
3. Affiliate Disclosure & How We Earn Money
Auto Repair IQ is free to use. We do not charge for estimates or require an account to view cost pages.
We may earn commissions when you click certain outbound links and complete a qualifying action (for example a purchase on Amazon or a referral through a CJ partner link).
As of October 2026, our site uses:
- Amazon Associates:"Shop parts on Amazon" and similar links open Amazon search results with our associate tag (
cakemg-20). - Commission Junction (CJ): Partner product links on cost pages (for example tire and parts merchants). CJ may pay us a commission on qualifying actions. Those blocks may include the tracking pixels described in section 2.
Commissions, if any, come from the merchant or network at no extra cost to you for the same product price where that applies. Some pages also link to third-party services (for example shop quote tools) without an affiliate relationship; those are labeled in context on the page.
Affiliate relationships are also noted in the site footer and on our Terms of Service page.
4. Advertising
We do not currently display third-party display ads (such as Google AdSense) on the site as configured in the code we reviewed as of October 2026. If we add display advertising later, ad networks may use cookies to serve ads; we will update this section when that changes.
5. How We Use Information
- To understand traffic and improve content
- To see which repair topics and cities visitors use most
- To maintain site performance and security
- To comply with legal obligations
We do not sell, rent, or trade your personal information to third parties for their marketing lists.
6. Third-Party Links
Our site links to third-party websites including parts retailers, affiliate networks, and service directories. We are not responsible for their privacy practices or content. Review each site's policy before you submit personal information or payment.
7. Data Accuracy Disclaimer
Cost estimates on Auto Repair IQ combine BLS-based modeled labor ranges with editorial parts and labor-hour assumptions. They are planning figures, not quotes, and do not guarantee actual repair costs. Always obtain written estimates from licensed repair shops before authorizing work.
8. Children's Privacy
Our site is not directed at children under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children. If you believe a child has provided us personal information, please contact us and we will promptly delete it.
9. Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. When we do, we will update the "Last updated" date at the top of this page. Continued use of our site after any changes constitutes acceptance of the revised policy.
10. Contact Us
Questions about this Privacy Policy: hello@autorepairiq.repair