Free guide
The sold-customer follow-up schedule (with texts you can copy)
Most repeat and referral deals come from customers who still remember your name. Here's a simple check-in timeline from delivery day to year three, plus a text for each step. Swap in the details in braces.
Day 1
Thank them while the excitement is fresh and answer setup questions.
Hey {first}, it's {you} from {store}. Thanks again for choosing me yesterday! Any questions on the {vehicle} so far? I'm a text away.
Week 1
Catch small issues (Bluetooth, keys, plates) before they turn into frustration.
Hi {first}, {you} here. How's the first week in the {vehicle}? Phone paired and everything working the way you want?
Day 30
The honeymoon is over, so this is the honest check-in.
Hey {first}! It's already been a month. How's everything going with the {vehicle}? Anything I can help with?
Month 3
Stay familiar without asking for anything.
Hi {first}, {you} from {store} just checking in. Still loving the {vehicle}? If anything comes up, I'm your person here.
Month 6
Around the first service, a natural reason to reach out.
Hey {first}, {you} here. The {vehicle} is probably close to its first service. Want me to help get you in?
Year 1
Anniversaries get replies, and replies bring referrals.
Happy one year with the {vehicle}, {first}! Hope it's been great. Thanks again for trusting me.
Every 6 months after
Light touches keep you top of mind, not pushy.
Hi {first}, {you} from {store}. Hope you and the {vehicle} are doing well. Anything you need, just text me.
Year 2–3 (or lease end)
Most buyers start thinking about the next vehicle in this window.
Hey {first}, it's {you}. Hard to believe it's been a while with the {vehicle}! If you ever want to see what your options look like, I'm happy to help, no pressure.
Five rules that keep replies coming
- Use their first name and the vehicle. Generic texts get ignored.
- Never ask for a sale in the first year. Ask how they're doing.
- Send between 10am and 7pm in their time zone.
- Always let people opt out (add "Reply STOP to opt out").
- When they reply, answer personally and fast.
Don't want to remember all of this?
Driveback sends timed check-ins like these from your own texting number, and texts you the moment a customer replies. $24.99 a month. Cancel anytime.