Drivers often postpone repairs and services until the weather gets warmer, when their wallets aren’t so stretched from the holidays. This means your advertising tactics need to focus on auto repair winter specials that entice drivers to come out of hibernation.

ü  Start early with social media. Cars tend to need more maintenance in the winter, thanks to ice and snow. Implement a consistent social media strategy throughout the Fall and early Winter to remind customers of these preventative measures.

ü  Use coupons to feature winter specials. The holidays are rough on the wallet. After paying for Thanksgiving dinner and buying presents for the family, a well-discounted oil change or repair feels like a gift! This makes coupon advertising an especially effective tactic during the holiday and winter season. Consumers are always looking for winter specials, and your auto repair shop can be the one to provide that value.  

ü  Keep your website up to date. Updating or refreshing your website is good advice for any season, but it takes on some added importance in the fall and winter. If you still have summer specials advertised on your homepage in December, potential customers may think that you can’t provide the services they desperately need. Also, weather conditions change quickly. When that first snow falls, car owners will adjust their priorities on what services they need done. An updated website shows that you are aware of what customers need and are prepared to help.

ü  Offer specialized winter maintenance packages that include essential services such as battery checks, tire inspections, and fluid top-offs. Bundling these types of packages may make the consumer feel like it’s a one stop shop leaving them feeling prepared for winter weather. Cold temperatures can significantly impact a car’s battery. Dealerships can provide complimentary battery testing to identify potential issues and recommend replacements if necessary.

Encourage customers to switch to winter tires, which are designed for better traction in snow and icy conditions. Dealerships can offer tire installation services, tire pressure checks, and tire rotations to ensure optimal performance during the winter months. You’ll also want to be sure to schedule a future service to put back on regular tires.

With specialized winter service, it might be a good idea to conduct thorough checks of essential fluids such as antifreeze, windshield washer fluid, and oil. Ensure that all fluids are at the appropriate levels and are suitable for colder temperatures. Cold and icy conditions can amplify the importance of properly functioning brakes.

ü  You can also offer brake inspections to identify any issues and provide necessary maintenance or replacements. This may be one of the most important services for winter weather. You wouldn’t want to be stuck on a cold day with no heat! Ensure that the heating system is working effectively. Of course, don’t forget to check and, if needed, replace cabin air filters to ensure that the heating and defrosting systems operate at peak performance.

ü  Visibility is crucial in winter weather. Recommend and offer replacements for windshield wiper blades that are worn or damaged. Additionally, you can provide windshield washer fluid that is specifically designed for freezing temperatures. Relating to the customer will help, you can offer tips for winter car maintenance and safety, making your customer feel how much you care by proactively offering these services and promotions.

Winter weather doesn’t mean you need to be stuck inside, prepare your service department and marketing to help customers feel safe and ready for any weather.

As an automotive digital marketing agency, we not only know sales, but we know service. Whether it’s seasonal marketing or driving more customers to your service bays, we can help! Give us a call today at 877-958-4524 or contact us online.