Unlike other service providers, auto repair centers don’t get much thought until someone has a problem. While many drivers have go-to mechanics, some turn to the internet when they have car trouble. Here, we’ll offer a few tips on how to build and grow a successful auto repair business.
Set Up a Website
Most vehicle owners are under the age of 40, and many prefer to interact with providers online. The best websites have features such as:
- Lists of service offerings
- Contact information that’s easy to find
- Short load times
- Mobile-responsive designs
- Relevant, topical blog and how-to content
- Customer reviews
If your auto repair business marketing plan doesn’t include a website, it needs one—today!
Boost Site Traffic With Local SEO
Building a great website isn’t enough; next, you’ll need to get it noticed. Think about the last time you looked something up online. Did you go past the first page of the results? Probably not!
When potential customers Google the issues they’re experiencing, your shop’s website should be at or near the top of the search results. That’s where local SEO or search engine optimization comes in, and we can help your site rank higher, get more clicks, and gain more traffic.
Ask for Feedback
Glowing reviews from previous customers are an asset that will help convince new clients to book repair appointments. Positive Yelp and Google reviews will improve customers’ trust, build a stronger brand, and bring more people through the doors.
Find a Local Partner
Your service center may not be the only one in the area, and it’s likely competing against national chains. There’s strength in numbers and partnering with another local business may be just the boost your auto repair shop needs.
Use Coupons
Coupons and vouchers are an effective, yet low-cost way to get a shop’s name in front of potential customers. They remind drivers of crucial, yet easy-to-ignore automotive maintenance services while offering something valuable. Consider including offers like:
- A free inspection with every oil change
- Free tire rotation with a safety inspection
- Discounts on popular services
With a voucher program, you’ll increase ticket sizes and find more customers.
Send Reminders
Something as small and simple as an automated reminder can help an auto shop make money while reducing no-shows. With the right service reminder software, owners and team members can save time, save money, and make better plans.
Start a Loyalty Program
Established and new auto repair shops can build stronger brands by offering loyalty programs to regular customers. Auto repair shops often offer loyalty perks like:
- A no-cost oil service for every few paid visits
- Discounts on related services
Whether you’re using a physical card or an online points tracker, a loyalty program will make repeat customers feel like VIPs—and it will bring new ones into the fold.
Offer Amenities
Everyone loves getting something for free, and auto repair customers are no exception. Amenities can improve the customer experience, leading to repeat business and creating good word of mouth. Make your shop stand out by:
- Bringing in comfortable furniture
- Offering free snacks and drinks
- Providing complimentary TV and WiFi
With these and other amenities, customers can stay productive and happy while they wait—and the shop’s numbers will remain high.
The Takeaway
These are just a few of our tips on starting and running a successful auto repair shop. While there are no hard-and-fast rules to follow, these suggestions will help shop owners increase revenue and become trusted sources of help and information.
