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Building Customer Loyalty in the Auto Repair Industry: Insights from a Consumer Survey

In the highly competitive auto repair industry, customer loyalty plays a pivotal role in the success of service providers. A recent AutoNetTV service report* conducted on car owners reveals some compelling insights that shed light on the preferences and behaviors of consumers when it comes to selecting an auto repair provider. According to the survey, a staggering 96% of consumers opt for three or fewer locations for all their service needs, underscoring the significance of building and maintaining customer satisfaction. This article explores the survey results and discusses how auto repair providers can leverage this information to enhance customer loyalty.

Survey Highlights:
The survey delved into the habits of car owners, revealing that a significant 61.7% of respondents always choose the same auto repair provider for their service needs. On the other hand, 34.1% of consumers indicated that they visit 2-3 different providers for various reasons. These statistics emphasize the crucial role played by customer satisfaction in retaining clients, with the majority of consumers preferring consistency in their choice of auto repair services.

Investing in Expertise and Training:
One key takeaway from the survey is the importance of investing in expertise and training for auto repair professionals. Consumers are more likely to stick to a single provider if they perceive high levels of skill and knowledge in the staff. Auto repair facilities should prioritize ongoing training programs for their technicians, ensuring that they stay updated on the latest technologies and industry best practices. By maintaining a team of experts, providers can instill confidence in their customers and solidify their position as a trusted service destination.

Effective Customer Communication:
Building on the survey results, effective customer communication emerges as a critical factor in retaining clients. Auto repair providers should prioritize transparent and informative communication strategies that reinforce the reasons for choosing their facility. This could include regular updates on service progress, detailed explanations of repairs, and proactive communication about upcoming maintenance needs. Establishing clear and open lines of communication helps build trust between the provider and the customer, making them more likely to return for future services.

Tailoring Services to Customer Preferences:
Understanding that a significant portion of consumers visit 2-3 different providers, auto repair facilities should tailor their services to accommodate varied preferences. Offering flexible service options, such as convenient scheduling, shuttle services, or loyalty programs, can attract and retain customers who may seek services from multiple providers. By addressing the diverse needs of their clientele, auto repair providers can position themselves as customer-centric establishments.


The service report results highlight the importance of customer satisfaction, expertise, and effective communication in the auto repair industry. Auto repair providers seeking to build and retain customer loyalty should focus on investing in training, fostering transparent communication, and tailoring services to meet customer preferences. In a market where the majority of consumers choose three or fewer locations for their service needs, building trust and satisfaction becomes paramount for sustained success.

Differentiate yourself from competitors with AutoNetTV's high-quality content that Increases customer dialogue and ensures customers know all your service options.

*AutoNetTV Automotive service report. A Nationwide survey of vehicle owners.

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