7 Things Customers Consider When Looking for an Auto Repair Shop
With so many online resources, consumers now consider various factors before deciding which auto repair shop to trust with their vehicle. Standard word of mouth is still effective, but that has changed due to the advent of social media.
Social media has become the new word-of-mouth marketing, providing users instant access to business pages with ratings and reviews.
In this article, we will explore six aspects of an auto repair shop that consumers prioritize when looking for an auto repair shop.
How Do You Identify a Reliable Auto Repair Shop?
When it comes to finding an auto repair shop, there are many things that consumers look for. A shop's reputation starts with quality work, then other conveniences should follow.
Auto repair shops have many obstacles that could prevent consumers from coming back. When a customer brings their vehicle in for maintenance or repair, timely service is crucial, but unexpected issues may cause a delay.
According to IMR Inc., finding parts needed to do repairs and keeping customers are the biggest challenges for auto repair shops.
1. Quality Auto Repair
To maintain repeat customers, auto repair shops must focus on building customer relationships. One way to entice consumers to visit your shop is by providing a comprehensive list of services.
2. Reviews and Ratings on Social Media
Reviews hold immense power in influencing a customer's choice of an auto repair shop. In fact, 93% of consumers read reviews before making a purchase, according to Dixa.
Social media platforms like Face, Google, and Yelp have become the go-to platforms for consumers to tell the story about their positive or negative experiences. Potential customers will also visit the business's website for further information.
Positive reviews and high ratings show the shop has consistently delivered quality automotive repair, making it a top choice for customers. Not only that, but 63% of consumers are more likely to trust brands if they have reviews.
On the other hand, low ratings and poor reviews can scare off potential customers. Bad reviews can be avoided by having a team of knowledgeable staff who prioritize the needs of the customer.
3. Offer Competitive Pricing to Customers
Pricing is one of the main starting points for customers before purchasing. If a customer does not like the prices being quoted, more often than not, they will research to find the best pricing for auto repair and maintenance in their area.
On average, consumers spend between $500-$600 on car repairs per year. Offering competitive prices demonstrates fairness and fosters customer trust, leading to long-term loyalty.
4. Auto Repair Shop Advertising
Everyone loves a good deal, and customers are no exception. Auto repair shops that offer discounts, promotions, or loyalty programs have a competitive edge in attracting new customers and retaining existing ones.
One way to promote your services is by running advertising on social media. Social media gives businesses the ability to communicate with consumers in many ways. One way, in particular, is Facebook Ads. Facebook Ads can be run directly on your Business's Facebook page and can be used to target your preferred audience.
According to Hootsuite, Facebook Ads have the power to reach 62.6% of Americans over the age of 13. That is a massive audience, but your audience will be located in and around your business's area.
To communicate effectively with your audience, you must first identify and then target that audience so that they will see your promotional material.
5. Cleanliness and Organization
When it comes to the automotive industry, consumers want to visit a clean shop and waiting area. Customers are more likely to feel comfortable bringing their cars to clean shops.
A well-organized shop is likely to handle repairs systematically, reducing the chances of errors and delays.
What Amenities Matter to Customers in Auto Repair?
Customers are simple. They want their vehicle fixed without the headache. Headaches cannot always be avoided, but offering valuable amenities will help your business navigate the potential of bad reviews. Here are a couple that might help with that.
6. Wi-Fi Availability
Wi-Fi has become an essential amenity for consumers over the years. While waiting for repairs to be completed, customers may need to stay connected for work or personal reasons.
Offering complimentary Wi-Fi can enhance the overall customer experience, making their wait more productive and enjoyable.
6.Shuttle/Rental Vehicles
One of the most popular amenities for customers is having a source of transportation to continue with their day.
If you have a rental car or provide shuttle services, customers may be willing to visit your shop based on the added convenience you provide.
That is Just A Few, But There is More That You Can Do
With such a competitive market, consumers have the tools to figure out what auto repair shops to avoid and which shops they will visit. All it takes is a quick social media search and a Google search to find the right shop to bring their car to.
When consumers decide to spend their money, they will have done their homework on the best auto repair shops that fit their needs.
Auto repair shops that prioritize the customer's needs and wants are more likely to win their loyalty and trust.
Moreover, as the automotive landscape evolves with technological advancements, forward-thinking repair shops may consider integrating digital solutions for appointment scheduling, communication, and progress updates.
Combining these modern elements with exceptional service allows auto repair shops to create a customer-centric environment that sets them apart in the competitive market while fostering long-term relationships with their valued clientele.