Setting up your auto repair shop (jidousha kousho / 自動車工場) on Car Spot is one of the most impactful things you can do to attract new customers in Japan. Car Spot's garage directory is used by drivers across Japan to find trusted mechanics for everything from Shaken (車検) inspections to everyday oil changes. A complete, well-crafted profile is the foundation of everything — it determines how often you appear in search results, how many drivers click through to your listing, and how many of those clicks become actual bookings.
Step 1: Create Your Car Spot Account
Visit Car Spot and complete the garage onboarding process at /garage/onboarding. You will need your business name, address, phone number, email, and a brief description of your shop. Use your official trading name — the name drivers will recognise if they have heard of you through word of mouth or a signboard. Make sure the address is precise and matches what appears on Google Maps, as Car Spot uses location data to surface your profile in local search results.
Step 2: Write a Compelling Shop Description
Your Car Spot shop description is your opportunity to tell drivers who you are, what you specialise in, and why they should choose you over a competitor. A strong description for a Japanese auto repair shop should include: how long you have been in business, the types of vehicles you specialise in (kei cars, Toyota/Nissan/Honda, EVs, imports), the services you are best known for (Shaken, engine work, bodywork), your qualifications or Land Transport Bureau (運輸局) certifications, and any distinguishing features (same-day Shaken available, courtesy car, collection service). Aim for three to five sentences — informative but not overwhelming.
Step 3: List Your Services Completely
Every service you offer should appear on your Car Spot profile. This is not just good for customers — it directly affects how often Car Spot surfaces your profile in search results. For a Japanese auto repair shop, prioritise listing: Shaken (車検) inspection and preparation, JCI renewal, kei car servicing, EV and hybrid maintenance, oil changes, brake work, tyre services, and any bodywork or paint services. Include a price range for major services like Shaken to build trust and improve enquiry quality.
Step 4: Add Photos
Photos transform a bare listing into a profile drivers trust. Upload at least four to six photos showing: your shop exterior (so drivers can identify it when they arrive), your workshop interior (clean and organised conveys professionalism), your equipment and ramp (especially if you have modern EV diagnostic tools), and your team if they are comfortable being photographed. In Japan's market, where trust and attention to detail are paramount, a visually professional Car Spot profile makes a significant difference.
Step 5: Set Your Opening Hours
Keep your Car Spot opening hours accurate and current. Japanese public holidays — particularly Golden Week, Obon, and New Year — are periods when many shops adjust their hours. An up-to-date Car Spot profile means customers are never disappointed when they arrive expecting you to be open.
