Module 11

Auto Repair & Garages

This quick-start guide covers Google Business Profile optimisation for car garages, MOT centres, and auto repair businesses. Vehicle owners need trusted mechanics — your listing needs to build that trust.

Your Setup Priorities

What to do

Focus on these elements first for auto repair businesses.

Step by step

  1. Trust is paramount. Car owners are wary of being ripped off. Reviews and credentials are crucial for building trust.
  2. Services must be clear. MOT? Servicing? Repairs? Specialist work? Be specific about what you offer.
  3. MOT centre status. If you're an approved MOT test centre, make this prominent — it's a key search term.
  4. Reviews address fears. Reviews mentioning fair prices, honest advice, and quality work directly address customer concerns.
  5. Accessibility and convenience. Courtesy cars, collection service, waiting area — these practical details matter.

Recommended Categories

What to do

Choose categories that match your services.

Step by step

  1. General garage — Primary: Auto Repair Shop
  2. MOT centre — Secondary: MOT Testing Centre or Vehicle Inspection (may vary by region)
  3. Tyre centre — Primary: Tire Shop
  4. Specialist categories: Auto Body Shop, Brake Shop, Transmission Shop, Auto Electrical Service, Car Detailing Service.
  5. Brand specialist: If you specialise in certain makes (BMW, Mercedes, etc.), mention in description — specific categories may not exist.

Services to List

What to do

List all your auto services comprehensively.

Step by step

  1. Testing: MOT testing, Vehicle health checks, Diagnostic checks, Pre-purchase inspections.
  2. Servicing: Full service, Interim service, Manufacturer service, Oil change, Filter changes.
  3. Repairs: Engine repairs, Gearbox repairs, Clutch replacement, Exhaust repairs, Suspension repairs, Steering repairs.
  4. Brakes: Brake pads, Brake discs, Brake fluid, Handbrake adjustment.
  5. Tyres: Tyre fitting, Wheel alignment, Tyre balancing, Puncture repairs.
  6. Electrical: Battery replacement, Alternator repair, Starter motor, Air conditioning service.
  7. Bodywork: Dent removal, Scratch repair, Paint touch-up, Body repairs.
  8. Convenience: Courtesy cars, Collection/delivery, While-you-wait service.

Photos That Work for Garages

What to do

Show professionalism and capability.

Step by step

  1. Workshop. Clean, well-equipped, professional. Shows you have proper facilities.
  2. Equipment. Lifts, diagnostic equipment, modern tools. Shows you're properly equipped.
  3. Team. Mechanics in clean workwear. Professional, trustworthy appearance.
  4. Exterior/signage. Your premises, signage, MOT logo if applicable.
  5. Waiting area. If you have one, show it's clean and comfortable.
  6. Work in progress. Mechanics working on vehicles (nothing that looks unsafe).
  7. Certifications. MOT authorised logo, manufacturer approvals, trade body memberships.

What to Include in Your Description

What to do

Key elements for a garage description.

Step by step

  1. MOT status. "DVSA Approved MOT Testing Station" if applicable.
  2. Experience. "Over X years of experience" or "Family-run since [year]."
  3. Specialisations. If you specialise in certain makes or types of work.
  4. Trust signals. "Honest, transparent pricing" or "No work carried out without approval."
  5. Convenience. "Courtesy cars available" or "Free collection and delivery."
  6. Accreditations. Good Garage Scheme, Trust My Garage, manufacturer approvals.

Getting Reviews for Garages

What to do

Reviews overcome customer scepticism.

Step by step

  1. Ask at collection. When customer collects car and is happy: "Glad you're pleased. A Google review really helps other car owners find us."
  2. Invoice insert. Card with QR code included with invoice.
  3. Follow-up text/email. Day after collection: "Thanks for choosing us. If you're happy, we'd appreciate a Google review: [link]"
  4. Encourage specific mentions. "If you could mention we explained everything and the price was fair, that really helps."
  5. Respond professionally. Address concerns calmly. Invite unhappy customers to discuss directly.

Q&A to Seed

What to do

Pre-populate these common questions.

Step by step

  1. "Do you do MOTs?" — MOT services and booking.
  2. "Do you work on [brand] cars?" — Makes you service.
  3. "Do you provide courtesy cars?" — Courtesy car policy.
  4. "How much is a service?" — Service pricing or how to get a quote.
  5. "Do you do while-you-wait repairs?" — Quick service options.
  6. "Is there parking while I wait?" — Customer parking.
  7. "Do you do diagnostics?" — Diagnostic capabilities.

Priority Citations for Garages

What to do

Get listed on these platforms.

Step by step

  1. WhoCanFixMyCar — Popular garage finder.
  2. BookMyGarage — Garage booking platform.
  3. Good Garage Scheme — If you're a member.
  4. Trust My Garage — If registered.
  5. Checkatrade — Covers motor trade.
  6. Motor Codes — If you subscribe.
  7. Yell, Thomson Local — General directories.

Garage GBP checklist: