Customer Vehicle Loyalty Means Repair Opportunity

Customer Loyalty to Vehicle Brands Spells Ongoing Maintenance Opportunities

Vehicle owners’ allegiance to brands should give us all something to cheer about. This is especially true for those who service import vehicles.

Vehicle owners’ allegiance to brands should give us all something to cheer about. This is especially true for those of you who service import vehicles.

Nine import nameplates — Infiniti, Land Rover, Lexus, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Porsche, Subaru and Volvo — are among the 13 brands that experienced 10-year highs in loyalty rates in Q1 2015, according to new research from IHS Automotive (www.ihs.com). Underscoring that data is that fact that brand loyalty, in general, registered at 52.8% during the first quarter of 2015, says IHS.

Why such strong customer loyalty to vehicle brands? “The increased number of different models within brands makes it easier for households that may need a different type of vehicle to maintain their loyalty,” said Tom Libby, manager of automotive loyalty and industry analysis at IHS Automotive. “In addition, the increased popularity of leasing since the downturn has helped significantly as lessees are consistently more brand-loyal compared to retail owners.”

Plus, the number of models available in the U.S. market increased by 33 (12%) from 2005 to 2015, driven by major expansions of several luxury brands. Customers returning to market now have a greater number of choices at the brand from which they purchased their previous vehicle, increasing the probability that they will remain brand loyal.

This robust brand allegiance, coupled with unperformed maintenance that leaves dollars on the table, provides you with the opportunity to capitalize on the vehicle maintenance profit potential among your customer base. And, you can extend the life of your customers’ vehicles in the process, further contributing to their brand loyalty.

So what are you waiting for? Start promoting the value of preventive maintenance on the vehicles that your customers want to keep.

You May Also Like

Being Happy Gets In The Way of Being Successful

Bryce Kenny says his greatest satisfaction comes from helping others to find the courage to chase their dreams.

When the workday is over, the tools are put away, the computers have gone to sleep, the customers have driven away safely and the last tech has clocked out, washed up and left the parking lot, do you ever just take a minute to put your hands on your hips, look around your shop, take a deep breath and think, “Is this really all there is to life?”

Do OEM Service Bays Offer Opposition or opportunity?

With great power, of course, comes great responsibility.

It Ain’t Bragging If You Can Back It Up

It can be difficult to sit and read about yourself.

Putting Yourself First For Safety

Policies and procedures are only as good as those following them.

Why Is NHTSA Involved With RTR?

A closer look into NHTSA’s involvement with RTR.

Other Posts

Key Programming

When it comes to key programming, there are different levels of security access depending on the year, make and model of the vehicle.

Mazda SkyActiv Engine Service Tips

These engines have been reliable, but there are four pattern failures you might see.

How Effective Are Non-Competes for Shops and Technicians?

NCAs restrict workers, hinder innovation, and impact employment options.

Is Your Shop Being Robbed Right Now?

How prepared are you for the bad guys?