Dealerships may have an opportunity to connect with consumers this fall, not just for tire changes, but also by promoting messaging around the importance of getting their car batteries tested before winter arrives.
According to a CAA news release, the hot summer and changes in driving patterns that Canadians have experienced in 2020 have been tough on car batteries. CAA-Quebec’s Battery Service more than doubled (+137.7 per cent) in May year-over-year.
“Car batteries are sneaky,” said CAA. “They deteriorate in the summer heat, but don’t show any signs of weakness until they have to deliver bigger amounts of power. Then they suddenly give up the ghost on the first cold winter morning.”
Demand for its Battery Service was also up 95 per cent in April and 30 per cent at the end of September, YOY. It is not as significant as its May data, but the numbers are still up. CAA said the lockdowns, remote working, hot summers in Quebec and changing driving patterns are responsible for weakening the batteries.
“Battery testing only takes a few minutes and is easy to have done at the same time as routine maintenance at a garage,” said CAA.
In this case, it is also an opportunity for dealerships to spread the message, connect with customers, and potentially boost profits in their service departments.
