Trust in the auto repair industry is shockingly low. A recent Consumer Affairs study revealed that a staggering 78% of drivers don’t always trust their mechanics. Even worse, only 17% of drivers feel they’re ever charged fairly for repairs. For small auto repair shops, these numbers represent a significant challenge—but also a huge opportunity. Customers are looking for mechanics they can trust, and with the right approach, your shop can stand out from the competition and become their trusted go-to.

So, how do you build that trust in an industry where skepticism runs high?

1. Take the Time to Explain

It may seem simple, but if a customer doesn’t fully understand what you’re doing with their vehicle, they’re more likely to be wary. Sure, they may be aware of the services you intend to perform, but do they know why you’ve recommended them? A little extra time spent ensuring the customer understands the reasoning behind your recommendations can go a long way. Not only does this boost trust, but it also increases the likelihood of selling services as the customer relationship strengthens.

2. Increase Transparency

Distrust is often rooted in a lack of understanding. Many customers are skeptical of whether the services being recommended are truly necessary. Since they may not know the technical details, they have no choice but to trust—or decline—based on their own limited understanding.

While most people may not know the inner workings of their vehicles, you can help them gain a basic understanding. One of the best ways to do this is by leveraging digital vehicle inspections (DVI). Through DVIs, you can provide customers with visual evidence by attaching photos of the issues to a digital report. This allows the vehicle owner to make informed decisions because they’ve seen the problem with their own eyes. As a result, transparency becomes a key part of the relationship, fostering greater trust in your recommendations.

3. Make Communication Easy

In any relationship, communication is vital—and in a busy customer’s life, ease of communication is paramount. Implementing two-way texting into your shop’s processes can significantly improve the customer experience. Whether you need service approvals, are ready to send an invoice, or want to update the customer on their vehicle’s status, texting makes it convenient for them to stay informed. This simple but effective change helps build trust by showing that you’re making the repair process as seamless as possible.

4. Be Consistent

Trust is built over time through consistent actions. When customers see that your shop is reliable—delivering on time, quoting accurate estimates, and providing quality service every visit—they’ll be more inclined to trust you. Each positive experience reinforces your shop’s credibility, and as this trust grows, customers are more likely to return and recommend your services to others. Consistency, in both service and communication, is the foundation of lasting customer relationships.

5. Offer Guarantees and Warranties

One of the quickest ways to demonstrate confidence in your work is by offering guarantees or warranties. When customers know that parts and labor are backed by a warranty, they feel more secure in their decision to trust your shop. This peace of mind shows that you stand behind your work, easing common concerns about potential issues and giving customers an additional layer of protection.

6. Encourage Customer Reviews

Word of mouth continues to be one of the most powerful trust-building tools in the auto repair industry. Positive reviews from past customers can make potential new customers feel more confident in choosing your shop. Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews on platforms like Google or Yelp, or directly on your website. Not only do reviews establish trust, but they also serve as social proof of your shop’s credibility and service quality.

Digital Vehicle Inspections Make Building Trust Easier

Digital Vehicle Inspections (DVIs) are a powerful tool for building trust in your auto repair shop by providing customers with a transparent and detailed view of their vehicle’s condition. Through DVIs, you can show customers photos and videos of the exact issues your technicians find, making it easier for them to understand why certain services are needed. This visual evidence eliminates skepticism and promotes confidence in your recommendations. Additionally, by sending inspection reports directly to customers’ phones or emails, you simplify communication and allow them to make informed decisions at their own pace. Over time, the consistency and transparency that DVIs offer help build long-lasting trust, ensuring customers feel secure and confident in the care their vehicles receive.

By implementing these strategies, auto repair shops can effectively address the trust issues that have long been associated with the industry. Through transparency, consistency, and proactive communication, you’ll be well on your way to building lasting customer relationships and standing out in a competitive market. Contact BOLT ON Technology for a demo.