There are at least 23,000 private MOT stations in the UK, but the demand for testing is almost always high enough to launch a new garage – even if it’s right next to a competitor.
The key to success is providing a reliable, unrivalled service that clients will seek out time and time again. In the following guide, we’ve outlined five of the best ways to do just that.
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Always prioritise quality
No matter how busy your garage gets, it’s absolutely crucial to keep providing a high quality service. Clients won’t return to you if they’re not satisfied with the way you work, including everything from how quickly you order replacement parts to the mechanical repairs carried out.
With a backlog of August tests due to roll in, 770,000 additional vehicles will need an MOT during September – giving it a strong forecast to be the busiest month of the year.
Even during peak periods, you can’t afford to compromise on quality. This might mean delaying tests or turning down new bookings, but both are better options than rushing repairs.
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Use well-maintained tools
You’re an expert in the trade, so it’s important to use tools that help you put your skills to good use. Keeping only high quality spanner sets, driver sets, screwdrivers and wrenches will remove the possibility of needing to replace your tools frequently, which can be both time-consuming and costly.
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Understand customer service
If you’re running a busy test centre, we appreciate that you can’t get to know every customer on a first-name basis. However, something as simple as keeping your customers updated with the work you’re undertaking on their car could make all the difference.
Sometimes, it’s not all about having a glamorous workshop or free coffee. What clients really need is a mechanic they can trust to do the job well. After you’ve run the test, send a text message to your customer letting them know the outcome. From there, they can discuss any repairs with you on their own terms.
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Set a fair price
You need to earn your customers’ trust, and one of the best ways to do just that is to set fair prices. We would suggest implementing a fixed price for the MOT test and for your hourly labour charge but using your discretion for additional parts.
Never overcharge for parts you’ve ordered from a supplier. It’s acceptable to want to make a small profit, but your markup doesn’t need to be high to make money on the MOT overall.
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Consider a marketing strategy
If your garage is tucked away from busy areas, people might not know you exist. We’d recommend using traditional marketing techniques, including posters, leaflets, and business card, alongside an effective online marketing strategy to boost awareness.