For many auto repair shops, the printed oil change sticker has been a reliable tool for decades, but times are changing with technological advancements. The rise of customer relationship management (CRM) software and service reminders—especially texted and emailed—are changing the game. For auto shops deciding between these methods, it’s important to understand the unique benefits of oil change stickers and service reminders and how combining both might offer the best solution.

• Benefits of Traditional Oil Change Stickers 
• Benefits of Texted and Emailed Service Reminders
• Choosing the Right Option for Your Shop 
• Building a Strategy That Works for You

Benefits of Traditional Oil Change Stickers

The oil change sticker is a classic for a reason. For years, these stickers have served as a clear, tangible reminder for customers. Positioned inside the windshield, they keep the next service date and shop name top of mind. 

Beyond just oil changes, stickers can be customized to include mileage and dates for tire rotations, brake checks, or other essential maintenance tasks. These no tech-needed reminders are great for customers who may not check their emails or respond to texts. And, since they’ve become so recognizable, many drivers still rely on them, feeling reassured by the visible proof of their last service.

Benefits of Texted and Emailed Service Reminders

While oil change stickers are effective, they lack the interactivity and timeliness that digital service reminders offer. With an automated CRM, shops can send personalized, well-timed service reminders via text or email, making it easy for customers to schedule their next appointment. 

Here are some key advantages of service reminders:

1. Personalization: With AutoVitals' automated CRM, service reminders can be tailored to each customer’s unique history. For example, if a customer previously declined a brake inspection or tire replacement, you can send a follow-up reminder at the right time to encourage pre-approval and ensure essential maintenance is completed. This personalized approach helps capture missed revenue opportunities while ensuring customers receive all recommended services, boosting both customer satisfaction and shop loyalty. 
2. Helps Ensure the Customer Returns to Your Shop: One major limitation of oil change stickers is that while they remind customers to change their oil, they do little to build loyalty to your shop. A sticker may remind the driver to schedule service, but the customer might choose the nearest shop instead of returning to yours. This is especially true for customers who aren’t particularly attached to a specific service provider.
3. Convenience for the Customer: AutoVitals enhances customer convenience and loyalty by delivering timely, personalized reminders via text or email, allowing busy customers to schedule services with just a few clicks. These reminders help keep your shop top-of-mind, encouraging them to choose your reliable service over nearby quick-lube alternatives. This consistent outreach builds trust, reinforces your shop’s position as their go-to choice, and reduces the likelihood of customers seeking services elsewhere.
4. Enhanced Communication at the Right Time: AutoVitals enables your shop to reach customers at the most impactful times by strategically timing reminders, such as before holiday travel or during seasonal maintenance periods. This well-timed communication boosts appointment rates and keeps your bays consistently booked. 

Choosing the Right Option for Your Shop

Automated service reminders are the clear choice when it comes to maintaining customer loyalty and driving revenue. While oil change stickers may work for some customers, they fail to offer the same level of precision and efficiency as a CRM-powered system like AutoVitals. Automated service reminders allow shop owners to tailor their communication, ensuring every customer receives timely and personalized messages, whether through text or email. This approach keeps your shop top-of-mind and builds trust and loyalty over time.

For shops of any size, the ability to automate service reminders will help shops avoid the manual task of tracking and reminding customers individually, freeing up time for other tasks.  This saves valuable time while significantly reducing missed appointments. More importantly, automated reminders are proven to increase average repair order (ARO) and generate more revenue from returning customers by keeping them engaged with deferred work and upcoming maintenance needs. These reminders help customers plan for essential services, ensuring vehicle safety and longevity while boosting customer satisfaction. With their ability to drive measurable results, automated service reminders are an indispensable tool for any shop looking to grow its business and retain loyal clients.

Building a Strategy That Works for You

Both oil change stickers and service reminders have unique advantages, and ultimately, the best approach will depend on your shop’s resources, customer preferences, and long-term retention goals. By understanding the strengths of each option, you can develop a retention strategy that keeps your customers coming back. Embracing a blended approach may be the key to reaching your customers consistently and ensuring that they always choose your shop for their next service.

This dual strategy increases the likelihood that customers will return for their scheduled maintenance and also keeps them engaged with other services your shop offers. Being proactive with both physical and digital reminders can significantly increase customer loyalty and revenue. Find the right tools for your shop to keep customers informed, on schedule, and coming back to you—not just the nearest oil change shop.