Andy Baldassarre | BG Director of Marketing and Training
Today’s engines are built for high performance and efficiency, but the intense demands they face lead to a common issue: carbon buildup. Over time, this buildup impacts critical engine components like fuel injectors, intake valves and combustion chambers. The result? Poor fuel economy, sluggish performance, rough idling and even dreaded check-engine lights.
For dealerships, offering fuel system cleaning services isn’t just about maintenance—it’s about delivering a superior customer experience while driving revenue growth. A fuel system service effectively removes carbon deposits, restores engine performance and sets the gold standard for vehicle care.
The Win-Win Service
Fuel system cleaning services offer a host of benefits that enhance both customer satisfaction and business profitability. A clean engine operates more efficiently, leading to superior fuel economy and helping customers save money at the pump. This not only improves their driving experience but also reinforces trust in your shop as they notice smoother, more responsive vehicle performance.
Comparing fuel system cleaning with an annual dental cleaning service is a simple and effective way to connect with customers.
Additionally, a properly maintained fuel system reduces emissions, making it an attractive service for eco-conscious customers who prioritize environmental responsibility. Beyond immediate performance gains, regular fuel system maintenance helps proven costly repairs by protecting vital components, fostering long-term customer loyalty.
From a business perspective, offering this service increases repair order hours and opens the door for upselling opportunities, such as air filters or transmission services, ultimately boosting your bottom line.
Proven Strategies for Success
Dealerships can maximize their success by adopting these best practices:
Educate Your Advisors and Technicians
Equip your team with the tools to confidently explain fuel system cleaning. Visual aids, such as before-and-after photos or engine cutaways, can make the benefits clear to customers. Comparing fuel system cleaning to an annual dental cleaning is a simple and effective way to connect with customers.
Recommend It Early and Often
Introduce fuel system cleaning during vehicle check-ins or alongside routine services like oil changes. Personalized recommendations based on mileage, driving habits or performance concerns boost acceptance rates.
Bundle Services for Added Value
Create seasonal packages that pair fuel system cleaning with related services like oil changes or tire rotations. Bundling adds value for customers while increasing ticket size for your shop.
Leverage Vendor Retention Plans
Educate customers on any retention plans available through product vendors, which may offer extended coverage for key systems serviced with qualifying products. Highlighting this added value encourages customers to commit to regular maintenance.
Offer a Satisfaction Guarantee
Stand by your services with a satisfaction guarantee. This builds customer trust, enhances your shop’s reputation and keeps customers coming back.
Position Your Shop as a Leader
In today’s competitive market, standing out means offering exceptional services that customers value and trust. Fuel system cleaning is more than just a profitable service—it’s a way to enhance your reputation as a provider of high-quality, preventive maintenance.
About the Author
Andy Baldassarre leads the marketing and training departments for BG Products, Inc. He has more than 23 years of experience in the automotive industry with an emphasis on adult learning in the automotive workplace.
