How to Get More Customers to Your Garage

Attracting new customers is one of the biggest challenges for independent UK garages. With thousands of drivers searching for "garage near me", "MOT near me", and "car service [town]" every day, the garages that show up first—and look trustworthy—win the work. This guide covers practical, low-cost tactics that actually bring new customers through your door.

1. Get found when people search locally

Most customers find garages via Google. They search for a service plus a place—e.g. "MOT Hastings", "car service Edinburgh". If your business doesn't appear on the first page, you're invisible. The single most important step is to claim and complete your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business).

• Use your exact business name, address, and phone number consistently everywhere.
• Choose the right categories (e.g. "Car repair shop", "MOT testing station").
• Add opening hours, website, and a short description of what you offer.
• Upload clear photos of the workshop, reception, and team.
• Post updates regularly (e.g. seasonal offers, MOT reminders, EV servicing).

For more detail, see our guide on local SEO for garages.

2. List your garage where customers look

Many drivers use comparison sites and directories to find garages. Being listed on trusted UK platforms increases your visibility and credibility. Consider:

• AutoChain Find a Garage – free listing, reaches drivers searching for trusted workshops. List your garage.
• MOT/testing and trade bodies (e.g. Good Garage Scheme, Motor Ombudsman-accredited schemes) if you’re a member.
• Local business directories and town/council sites.

3. Make it easy to book and get in touch

If your phone goes to voicemail or your website has no clear "Book" or "Contact" option, you lose customers. Small improvements make a big difference:

• Answer or return calls quickly—ideally the same day.
• Add a click-to-call button and a contact form or booking link on your website and Google profile.
• Offer online booking if you can—many customers prefer to book outside opening hours.
• Say when you’re next available (e.g. "We have MOT slots from Thursday") so callers know what to expect.

4. Turn happy customers into referrals

Word of mouth is still one of the most powerful ways to get new customers. After a good job:

• Ask them to leave a Google review—and make it easy (e.g. a short link or QR code on the counter).
• Politely ask: "If you know anyone looking for a garage, we’d be grateful if you’d pass on our name."
• Consider a simple referral thank-you (e.g. a small discount on next service for them or the person they referred)—only if it fits your margins.

For more on using reviews to win work, see how to use customer reviews to win more work.

5. Stand out with a clear offer

Generic "we do MOTs and services" rarely grabs attention. Be specific about who you help and what you do best:

• e.g. "MOT and service for families in [town]", "Classic car specialists", "EV and hybrid servicing".
• Mention any accreditations (e.g. manufacturer training, EV certification, Good Garage Scheme).
• Highlight digital service history or reminders if you offer them—many buyers and sellers value a clear, digital record.

Use this message on your website, Google description, and directory listings so you’re memorable and easy to understand.