Did you know that over 70% of customers return to the same place where they bought their tires for service? That’s a major opportunity for your shop. Not just to build customer loyalty, but to increase revenue through essential maintenance found with tire inspection.
The real question is, once you earn that customer, are you using every chance to boost your repair order sales?
Start Every Visit With a Tire Inspection
Let’s talk about how a simple tire inspection can open the door to higher ticket totals and stronger customer relationships. When a customer visits your shop, no matter the reason, start with the basics.
Check tread depth. Many tires on the road need replacement, and a quick measurement gives you a chance to talk about tire safety and wear.
Next, verify tire pressure against the vehicle placard. Use a reliable gauge and check all four corners. It’s easy but powerful. Pressure problems can reveal bigger issues, like leaking valves or uneven wear.
Turn Tread Patterns Into Sales Opportunities
Don’t stop at depth and pressure. Check the tread wear pattern. Irregular wear can indicate misalignment or suspension concerns. These aren’t just boxes to check – they’re natural conversation starters that lead to more services sold.
If your shop uses inspection software, print the results. Start with the positives: for example, the right front tire shows 8/32″ tread across – great shape. That gives you a reference point. Then show areas of concern.
Let’s say there’s minor shoulder wear on a rear tire. It’s not urgent, but it could suggest the need for an alignment check. That’s a perfect opportunity to explain the value of preventive service.
Frame the Concern, Show the Fix
Now move to the critical issues. Imagine the front left tire has inner-edge wear – a potential camber problem. That’s a safety concern. Your message should be clear and calm: “This needs to be addressed now.”
By walking the customer through the inspection – good, moderate, and urgent – you build trust. That trust turns into higher repair order averages and more loyal customers.
A clear tire inspection isn’t just about upselling. It’s about giving your customers the information they need to make smart, safe decisions. And when they leave feeling educated, not pressured, they’re far more likely to return.
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