Do you want Free Annual Inspections for Life?

I [George] was having a conversation with a potential client today who has a single barrier left in place before moving forward. That barrier is the fact that he has to pay annually to keep a warranty in place. I know from years of experience in this industry that this is a hurdle tough to cross for many. I also can empathize as you are spending an average of about $1,600 for a 5 year coating with some additional options – and you have to invest another $150 a year (any size vehicle) to keep a warranty in place. Seems… messed up? Until now: I didn’t have a great answer for this.

First, Why Do Annual Inspections Cost Money?

It is NOT unique to Coatings by the Bay for an annual inspection being required to maintain your coating; and said appointment having a cost. The unique part with us is that we are willing to be transparent about it and talk about it up front. I want to also transparently explain WHY we charge for this appointment.

If you were to shop around for just a general exterior detail on a mid size vehicle like a Mazda CX5 or a Toyota RAV4 – any reputable shop would charge $175 to $250. This would include things like detailing the rims, removing built up iron from paint (clay bar), cleaning glass etc. These are quite literally the same inclusions with our annual inspections. These detailing prices are set to cover the cost of about 3 hours of labor, miscellaneous supplies and overhead on a shop. The annual inspection also includes about $30 (in wholesale cost) of ceramic topper added to the service. This means the annual inspection service is being provided at break even – if not a loss. Overall general detailing is not incredibly profitable; this being part of the reason we moved away from it years ago.

Potential Fixes for the Annual Inspection Fee Issue (That Didn’t Work)

Eliminate The Annual Inspection Altogether– This is not possible as we need to ensure the coating is performing well. We also typically perform this inspection in the spring which allows us to alleviate any “clogging” on the lower panels from the salt of winter.

Do the Annual Inspections for Free- We did try this at our old shop in Indiana. Unfortunately, we quickly learned no matter how much was charged on the front end for a coating, there was no model where this didn’t come at a massive loss to the business. It was not feasible for the long term. But, maybe we just hadn’t figured out the right way to offer free…

The FIX: How to Get Free Your Annual Inspection for Life

After hours of racking my brain for a solution to this situation it hit me. Lets start a very plain text referral program. No crazy rules to follow or other restrictions. Simply put – for every referral you provide who moves forward with a 5 Year or 8 Year Ceramic Coating – You get a free annual inspection. All they have to do is mention your name and a credit will be applied to your account. No fine print or hoops to jump through. I felt as though this was a very fair compromise between the business taking a loss and you bearing an unfair burden – I hope all our potential and current clients will feel the same.

Have a question?

I am here to help. Text me anytime at 920.659.0023 or email me at george@coatingsbythebay.com.