In recent years, the Digital Vehicle Inspection (DVI) seems to be all the buzz and is promoted as an automotive industry tool that auto repair shops need. But, just what exactly is a DVI, and what are the benefits of digital vehicle inspections?
What is a Digital Vehicle Inspection?
Simply put, a Digital Vehicle Inspection (DVI) is a modern vehicle inspection process that replaces clipboards and paper inspection sheets and instead utilizes digital tools—like tablets or smartphones—to assess and document the condition of a customer’s vehicle. This data is then compiled into a detailed, easy-to-understand report that is sent to the customer via email or text.
Customers are presented with a categorized report of recommended repairs or services containing supporting photos, videos, and notes, often with color-coded sections indicating items that are satisfactory or need immediate and future attention.
What are the benefits of Digital Vehicle Inspections?
Adopting DVIs can bring a domino effect of benefits to your shop including the following:
- Increased Transparency with Customers: Digital Vehicle Inspections establish transparency and promote customer relationships built on trust, enabling customers to make informed, confident decisions on repair approvals and vehicle maintenance by equipping them to understand the how and why behind recommended repairs and services.
- Higher Customer Approval Rates: When customers are informed and educated about the issues with their vehicles, they’re more likely to approve necessary repairs. The transparency and clarity that comes with DVIs can significantly improve approval rates for recommended services, boosting your business and profits.
- Improved Efficiency for Everyone: With DVIs, the grease and guesswork of handwritten inspections are eliminated. Your technicians can complete inspections faster with more thoroughness and accuracy. Because the DVI software organizes your technician’s findings into a professional report, this saves your team time and reduces unnecessary, lengthy phone calls.
- Dependable Record-Keeping and Tracking: DVIs automatically store all inspection reports digitally, which makes it easier to maintain records and track vehicle history. This can streamline future inspections and sales opportunities, as technicians can refer to past reports to see what issues have been addressed or are ongoing.
- Boost Your Shop’s Reputation: Offering DVIs sets your shop apart as a forward-thinking, customer-centric auto repair shop. In an industry where transparency and communication are often points of concern, being able to show your customers exactly what’s happening with their vehicle builds trust and enhances your shop’s reputation.
Getting started and implementing Digital Vehicle Inspections in your shop
Transitioning from a traditional to modern vehicle inspection process poses a change; however, implementing a DVI system does not have to be the daunting task it seems to be. Here are some steps to help get started:
Find the right software for your shop:
Choosing the right software can boil down to four things:
- Solutions – does it solve your problems?
- Usability – is the software easy to use and train new staff?
- Support – does the digital vehicle inspection software provider help you succeed and support your shop after purchase? And, finally,
- Cost – Look for features like integration with your existing management systems, ease of use for technicians, and support for multimedia (photos and videos).
Educate Your Customers:
Let your customers know about the benefits of digital vehicle inspections. Many may not be familiar with the concept, so explaining the process and how it improves transparency can make them more receptive to your new system.
Track Your Results:
Monitor how DVIs impact your business. Look at metrics such as customer approval rates, average ticket size, and time spent on inspections. This will help you gauge the return on investment and make any necessary adjustments.
Why go digital?
The decision to adopt Digital Vehicle Inspections is one that will save time for everyone from technicians to customers, increase client trust through transparent communication using their preferred methods, and boost your shop’s growth and reputation. By embracing this auto repair shop technology, you can greatly improve customer satisfaction, increase approval rates, and stay ahead of your competitors.
