Marketing Checklist
A practical marketing checklist for garages — Google, website, reviews, email and local presence in one audit list.
Last updated 6 July 2026 · 5 min read
Part of our guide to Garage Marketing for Independent Garages
Google and local search
- Google Business Profile claimed, verified and complete
- Correct primary category and service list
- NAP details match website and signage exactly
- 20+ real photos uploaded, updated in the last 90 days
- Booking link or appointment URL added
- All reviews responded to within one week
- At least one Google Post in the last 30 days
Website and conversion
- Mobile-friendly layout that loads in under three seconds
- Clear service pages for MOT, servicing and repairs
- Phone number and online booking visible on every page
- MOT price or 'from' pricing displayed
- Contact page with map, hours and directions
- HTTPS enabled (padlock in browser)
Reviews and reputation
Team trained to ask for Google reviews at collection. Target: at least five new reviews per month. Review link saved on reception desk and in follow-up emails. See referral marketing for turning happy customers into advocates.
Email, SMS and retention
- Customer emails and mobile numbers captured at booking
- Automated MOT reminders configured (email and/or SMS)
- Seasonal campaign calendar planned — see seasonal ideas
- Unsubscribe and GDPR consent handled correctly
Offline and community
Forecourt signage clean and lit. Business cards and referral cards on the counter. At least one community marketing activity per quarter. Garage branding consistent across print and online.
Score your profile and plan spend
Run the Google profile checker. For anything you cannot tick, read the matching guide — Google Business Profile, local SEO or marketing budget guide. Full strategy: garage marketing for independent garages. Need a website that passes this list? AskMike Garage Websites.
Frequently asked questions
- How often should a garage run through this checklist?
- Quarterly is a good rhythm. Google profiles, reviews and seasonal campaigns need regular attention — an annual check is not enough.
- What is the most commonly missed item?
- An outdated Google Business Profile — wrong hours, old photos, no booking link. Run the Google profile checker first.
Related guides
Garage Marketing for Independent Garages
Practical marketing for small garages — local SEO, Google visibility, referrals and tactics that work on a modest budget.
Google Business Profile Guide
A step-by-step guide to setting up and optimising your garage's Google Business Profile — categories, photos, posts and reviews.
Local SEO for Garages
How to rank higher on Google for local searches like 'MOT near me' and 'garage in [your town]'.
Marketing Budget Guide
How much should a garage spend on marketing — realistic budgets for independents and where to invest first.
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