81% of adults in the United States own a cell phone. And 90% read a text message within the first 3 minutes. That automatically establishes the importance of SMS marketing for your auto shop. SMS marketing is a direct and efficient way to communicate with customers and keep them in the loop. Here we have free SMS templates that can be used to streamline communication with your customers, from appointment reminders to promotional offers.Â
These will help you can add SMS marketing to your marketing strategy in 2024. Let’s get right into the free SMS templates for you to use.Â
Free SMS marketing templates
Appointment Reminders
Appointment reminders help reduce no-show rates at your auto shop. They keep your shop’s schedule running smoothly. A well-crafted SMS can prompt customers to confirm or reschedule. This means your day stays on track. And your shop schedules remains organized. Â
Template Example 1:Â
“Hi [Customer Name], just a reminder about your car service appointment on [Date] at [Time]. Reply YES to confirm or NO to reschedule. Thanks, [Shop Name]!” Â
Template Example 2:
“Hi [Customer Name], just a quick reminder about your service appointment at [Shop Name] tomorrow at [Time]. Please reply with YES to confirm or NO if you need to reschedule. See you soon!”Â
Service Promotions
Promotional texts are a great way to inform customers about special offers. These encourage them to take advantage of discounts or seasonal services. These messages can drive traffic and boost sales during slower periods and increase overall revenue.Â
Plus, these messages also create a sense of urgency and can drive customers to book services they might otherwise delay.Â
Template Example 1:
“Exclusive offer for you, [Customer Name]! Get 20% off your next oil change this [Month]. Book now! [Phone Number or Link] – [Shop Name]”Â
Template Example 2:
“🔧 Black Friday Blowout! 25% off all repairs at [Shop Name] this Friday only! Don’t miss out—book your slot today: [Phone Number].”Â
Seasonal Maintenance Tips
Sending texts that provide seasonal maintenance advice helps keep your shop top-of-mind for customers. Whether it’s a reminder to check tire pressure in winter or to service the air conditioning before summer, these tips can increase business. These also show the customers you care about them and helps build lasting relationships with them. Â
Template Example 1:
“Happy Holidays, [Customer Name]! Don’t forget to winterize your car. Schedule a winter check-up with us today. [Phone Number] – [Shop Name]”Â
Template Example 2:
“Happy Summer, [Customer Name]! Is your vehicle ready for summer road trips? Schedule a check-up today at [Shop Name] and ensure a safe journey! Call us at [Phone Number].”Â
Template Example 3:
“This Memorial Day, we salute our veterans! All veterans receive a 30% discount on oil changes at [Shop Name] through [Date]. Call us at [Phone Number] to schedule your service.”Â
Feedback Requests
After a service, sending a text to ask for feedback can improve customer service and address any issues proactively. It will also help you maintain a positive reputation. A simple SMS can encourage customers to share their experiences and provide valuable insights.Â
This also shows customers that you care about their experience and are committed to continuous improvement. Â
Template Example:
“Thanks for visiting [Shop Name], [Customer Name]! We’d love to hear about your experience. Please reply with your feedback or rate us at [Link]. Thank you!”Â
Requesting Reviews
Asking for customer reviews after service is a powerful way to build your online reputation and attract new customers. Reviews not only help improve your shop’s credibility but also provide valuable feedback that can enhance your services. Â
A well-timed, polite request for a review via SMS can encourage satisfied customers to share their positive experiences. You can send them to your Google Review page or any other place you want reviews. Â
Template Example 1:
“Hi [Customer Name], we hope you’re satisfied with the service you received at [Shop Name]. We’d appreciate it if you could take a moment to leave us a review: [Review Link]. Thank you!”Â
Template Example 2:
“Thank you for choosing [Shop Name], [Customer Name]! Your feedback helps us improve. Could you please leave us a quick review? It only takes a minute: [Review Link].”Â
Loyalty RewardsÂ
Informing customers about loyalty program benefits or milestones can encourage more frequent visits. Let your customers know they’ve earned a reward. Â
Rewarding loyal customers is a great way to encourage repeat business. SMS notifications about loyalty rewards can motivate customers to visit more frequently. It also makes them feel appreciated.Â
Template Example 1:
“Hi [Customer Name], you’ve earned a free car wash with your next service! Thanks for choosing [Shop Name]. Book your service today! [Phone Number or Link]”Â
Template Example 2:
“Hi [Customer Name], you’ve earned a FREE oil change after your fifth visit with us at [Shop Name]. Redeem this offer on your next visit. Thank you for being a loyal customer!”Â
Customer Win-back
Customer win-back texts are strategic messages sent to re-engage customers who haven’t visited your auto repair shop in a while. These messages can offer discounts or simply remind customers of the value your shop provides. Â
Template Example 1:
“We’ve missed seeing you at [Shop Name], [Customer Name]! As a token of our appreciation, we’re offering you 15% off your next service. Book your appointment today and let us take care of you. Offer expires [Date]. Call us at [Phone Number].”Â
Template Example 2:
“Hey [Customer Name], it’s been over 6 months since we last saw your [Car Model]. Let’s make sure everything is running smoothly! Come in for a check-up and enjoy $25 off your visit. Just our way of saying thanks. Book today: [Phone Number].”Â
Holiday and Birthday Greetings
Personal touches like holiday greetings or birthday wishes can help build a personal connection with customers. These messages make customers feel valued and appreciated. This will foster loyalty.Â
Template Example 1:
“Happy Holidays, [Customer Name]! Wishing you a season filled with joy and safe travels. Thank you for being part of the [Shop Name] family. Need a check-up before your holiday trip? Call us at [Phone Number].”Â
Template Example 2:
“🎈 Happy Birthday from all of us at [Shop Name], [Customer Name]! To celebrate, we’re offering you a complimentary car wash with your next service. Book today! [Phone Number or Link]”Â
New Services Announcements
SMS is a great way to inform your customer base when new services are available at your auto shop. Whether you’re introducing a new type of repair, offering a new product, or expanding your service menu, an SMS can quickly spread the word.Â
Template Example 1:
“New at [Shop Name]: [New Service]! We’re thrilled to expand our offerings to better serve you. Book now and get 10% off! [Phone Number or Link]”Â
Template Example 2:
“🚗 Great news! [Shop Name] now provides [New Service] to keep your vehicle in top shape. Schedule your service today and enjoy an exclusive offer: [Phone Number or Link].”Â
Emergency Alerts
In case of any urgent issues like recalls or safety warnings relevant to customer vehicles, you can use SMS to inform customers promptly. This way important information is communicated quickly, helping to protect both your customers and your business. Â
Template Example 1:
“URGENT: [Car Model] recall alert. If you own a [Car Model], please contact [Shop Name] at [Phone Number] immediately for a safety inspection. Your safety is our top priority.”Â
Template Example 2:
“Safety Alert: [Car Model] may be affected by a recent recall. Contact [Shop Name] ASAP to schedule a free inspection and ensure your vehicle is safe. Call [Phone Number].” Â
Thank You Messages
A simple thank you message after a service visit can enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty. Acknowledging the customer’s business and expressing gratitude can leave a lasting positive impression. Â
Template Example 1:
“Thank you, [Customer Name], for choosing [Shop Name]! We appreciate your business and look forward to serving you again. Have a great day! 🚗” Â
Template Example 2:
“Thanks for trusting [Shop Name] with your vehicle, [Customer Name]! We hope you’re happy with the service. If you have any feedback, we’d love to hear from you. Drive safe!”
Wrapping up
SMS marketing works for auto repair businesses and making it a part of your marketing strategy can bost appointment bookings and reduce no-shows. It also allows you to promote limited-time offers and tackle slow seasons while keeping customers informed. Explore shop marketing software to help you effortlessly send out SMS marketing messages!Â
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