Car Showroom Retail Checklist

Download our Car Showroom Visit Checklist — a ready-to-use PDF and Excel template that turns a quick walkthrough into consistent, actionable insight.

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About this Car showroom checklist

Turn a quick walkaround into real performance insight

Download our Car Showroom Visit Checklist — a ready-to-use PDF and Excel template that turns a quick walkthrough into consistent, actionable insight. Every check adds to a clear picture of what’s working and what needs attention, so you can stop guessing and start knowing.

Who it’s for

  • Sales or operations managers — the person leading the visit, coaching on the floor, and holding the team to standards.
  • Regional or area managers — use it for structured visits across sites, so expectations stay consistent and performance is trackable.
  • New site leaders in training — this doubles as a guide to what “good” looks like and where to focus their energy.
  • L&D and compliance teams — track customer experience, team behaviour, and safety standards in one simple tool.

When to complete it

  • Weekly or monthly visits — track trends, follow up on actions, and build accountability over time.
  • New starter periods — make sure the customer journey is strong and the team has the support it needs.
  • After campaign launches or changes — confirm the showroom is set up for success and staff are aligned.
  • Following issues or complaints — understand root causes and coach improvements on the spot.

What it covers

SectionTypical checks
ObjectivesWhy are you here? Look at sales KPIs, visit goals, and manager knowledge.
ExperienceObserve real sales interactions: energy, rapport, value-selling, upselling.
Showroom floorCustomer perspective: lighting, layout, vehicle access, expired offers.
Health & safetyThe essentials: exits, PPE, fire alarms, ventilation, and data security.
Back officeBehind the scenes: facilities, parts storage, tidy desks, and compliance.
Sales teamProduct knowledge, FCA training, vacancies, dress code, and monthly focus.

Each line is a quick tick, yes/no, or score — with room for comments and photos. On a tablet, it takes 15–20 minutes: short enough for a walkaround, detailed enough to coach from.

Why it matters

  • Consistency — everyone follows the same structure, so standards don’t slip between visits or sites.
  • Focus — clear prompts cut the fluff. Managers spend more time supporting the team and less time second-guessing.
  • Insight — trends build over time. Spot what keeps going wrong (or right) and take action.
  • Performance — coaching is based on real behaviour and data, not gut feel. That means better conversations, better service, and better results.
  • Customer experience — smoother visits, quicker help, and more confident staff lead to happier customers and higher conversion.

How to roll it out

  1. Download the template — print the PDF or use the Excel version on any tablet; brand it in minutes.
  2. Show the team — a five-minute walkthrough explains what’s being checked and why it matters.
  3. Capture the insight — photos and comments give context, while scores build the bigger picture.
  4. Spot the trends — drop visit data into a shared dashboard to highlight hotspots and wins.
  5. Coach in the moment — use what you see to run smarter 1:1s and team huddles.
  6. Celebrate success — highlight high scores and standout service. Reinforce what good looks like.

Ready to tighten showroom standards, boost team performance, and get real insight from every visit? Download the checklist now — no strings, just a practical tool to help you and your team.

Stop guessing. Start knowing.

Included questions

Here's what's included in this Car showroom checklist:

Objectives (8)

Plan your visit, know the numbers, why are you there?

  • Unit

    Average transaction value

    Average transaction value recorded during the visit. This figure highlights customer spending patterns and supports pricing and promotion decisions for vehicle sales.

    Scorable
  • Unit

    Showroom visits

    Total number of customers who visited the showroom. Tracking footfall reveals traffic trends, allowing you to align sales staff levels and marketing efforts with peak periods.

    Scorable
  • Unit

    Average time on forecourt

    Measurement of the average time customers spend on the forecourt before being approached. Shorter wait times improve customer satisfaction and conversion rates.

    Scorable
  • Text

    Goal of visit

    Reason or objective for the showroom visit. Clarifying the goal keeps the visit focused and ensures follow-up actions align with sales and service priorities.

  • Vibe

    Positive atmosphere?

    Assess the overall atmosphere in the showroom. A welcoming atmosphere encourages browsing and vehicle exploration, driving conversions and brand perception.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Manager knows numbers?

    Confirm if the showroom manager is aware of key performance numbers. A manager who knows the data can coach the sales team effectively and react quickly to underperformance.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Percentage

    Monthly sales target progress

    Current progress towards monthly vehicle sales targets. Tracking this KPI benchmarks performance and identifies areas needing sales process improvement.

    Scorable
  • Percentage

    Customer satisfaction score

    Current customer satisfaction rating for the showroom. High satisfaction correlates with repeat business and referrals; monitoring ensures service standards remain high.

    Scorable

Experience (12)

How is the customer experience? Observe a sales advisor:

  • Vibe

    What is their energy level?

    Rate the energy level of the sales advisor when approaching customers. Enthusiastic staff create positive experiences and influence vehicle purchasing decisions.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Vibe

    How is their rapport?

    Rate the quality of the sales advisor's rapport with customers. Building rapport fosters trust and increases the likelihood of vehicle sales and future service bookings.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Are they 'selling' the value?

    Check whether the sales advisor is communicating the vehicle's value proposition. Effective value selling differentiates the brand and protects margins.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Have they asked for the sale?

    Confirm if the sales advisor closes by asking for the vehicle sale. Asking for the sale converts interest into revenue and should be part of every customer interaction.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Have they offered a higher specification or premium model?

    Check if upselling behaviour is present. Suggesting premium trim levels or models raises average order value and demonstrates product expertise.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Have they offered additional products or services?

    Assess whether cross-selling of accessories, warranties, or service packages is present. Cross-selling increases transaction value and customer lifetime value.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Memorable welcome?

    Determine if the customer received a standout greeting upon entering the showroom. A memorable welcome sets a positive tone and differentiates the dealership.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Managing customer flow?

    Observe customer flow management practices. Proactive customer management reduces wait times and enhances perceived service efficiency.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Identifying returning customers?

    Check if the sales advisor recognises returning customers or existing service customers. Recognition personalises service and strengthens brand loyalty.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Introduce by name?

    See if the sales advisor introduces themselves by name and gets the customer's name. Personal introductions improve engagement and build rapport.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Listening to customer needs?

    Assess active listening behaviours regarding customer requirements. Active listening uncovers vehicle needs, enabling better recommendations and reducing objections.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Used the customer's name?

    Confirm whether the sales advisor addressed the customer by name during the interaction. Using names personalises the vehicle buying experience.

    Comments Images Scorable

Showroom Floor (12)

What's the state of the showroom floor? Think of it from the customer's perspective

  • Yes/No

    Are vehicles positioned correctly?

    Check vehicle positioning follows showroom layout guidelines. Proper positioning maximises visibility and creates clear traffic flow for customers.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    No expired offers?

    Ensure no outdated promotional materials remain on display. Removing expired offers avoids customer confusion and maintains credibility.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Showroom layout optimal

    Verify overall showroom layout follows brand standards. Adhering to layout guidelines maximises sales by following proven customer journey strategies.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Key model availability

    Check that popular vehicle models are available for viewing. Vehicle availability prevents lost sales opportunities and customer frustration.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Vehicles accessible for viewing?

    Ensure customers can easily access and explore vehicles. Accessible vehicles encourage interaction and test drive bookings.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Lighting

    Confirm adequate lighting throughout the showroom. Good lighting enhances vehicle appearance and creates an inviting atmosphere.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Background music appropriate?

    Check showroom audio levels and music selection. Appropriate audio contributes to ambiance without hindering sales conversations.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Pricing displays up to date?

    Ensure vehicle pricing information matches current offers. Accurate pricing prevents disputes and builds customer trust.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Cleanliness

    Assess general cleanliness of the showroom floor and vehicles. Clean environments enhance customer perception of quality and professionalism.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Sales system operational?

    Check sales management system and pricing tools are working. Reliable systems ensure accurate quotes and smooth transaction processing.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Digital displays working?

    Confirm any screens or digital displays are operational. Working displays deliver promotional content and vehicle information effectively.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Opening hours correct?

    Verify displayed opening hours match actual schedule. Correct hours avoid customer dissatisfaction from unexpected closures.

    Comments Images Scorable

Health & Safety (13)

Spot check some of the essentials

  • Yes/No

    Emergency lighting working?

    Check that emergency lighting operates correctly. Functional emergency lighting is legally required and critical for safe evacuation from the showroom.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Enough PPE stock?

    Ensure sufficient personal protective equipment is available for workshop and forecourt activities. Adequate PPE protects staff and meets regulatory standards.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    First aid kits fully stocked?

    Verify contents and expiry dates of first-aid supplies. Properly stocked kits enable immediate response to incidents in the showroom or workshop.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Walkways clear of hazards?

    Check for trip or obstruction risks in customer and staff areas. Clear walkways reduce accidents and liability in the showroom environment.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Security cameras functioning?

    Confirm CCTV surveillance cameras are operational. Working cameras deter theft and support incident investigations on the forecourt and showroom.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Adequate ventilation and temperature control?

    Check HVAC performance and comfort levels. Proper climate control safeguards health and enhances the customer browsing experience.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Fire alarm tested?

    Verify the last successful fire alarm test. Regular testing ensures the system will alert occupants throughout the dealership in an emergency.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Last evacuation test?

    Check date and outcome of the most recent evacuation drill. Drills train staff and highlight evacuation issues specific to the dealership layout.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Are fire exits clearly marked and unobstructed?

    Ensure all emergency exits are accessible and clearly marked. Unobstructed exits are vital for quick evacuation and a legal requirement.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Attendance log up to date?

    Confirm staff attendance records are current. Accurate logs aid in roll calls during emergencies and support effective shift management.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Customer data stored securely?

    Verify compliance with GDPR and data-protection policies. Secure handling of customer vehicle and finance data prevents breaches and maintains trust.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Employee data stored securely?

    Check secure handling of staff records and sensitive information. Protecting employee data is essential for privacy compliance and trust.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Emergency procedures – staff know process?

    Confirm awareness of emergency protocols including evacuation and security threats. Knowing procedures ensures a swift, safe response to various situations.

    Comments Images Scorable

Back Office (10)

Spot check some of the essentials

  • Yes/No

    Staff facilities clean?

    Check cleanliness of staff toilets and break areas. Hygienic facilities boost morale and comply with health regulations.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Parts storage organised?

    Assess organisation and security of parts storage areas. Organised storage speeds up service work and reduces parts shrinkage.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Vehicle keys stored securely?

    Verify secure storage of vehicle keys and key management systems. Proper key security prevents unauthorised access and theft.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Office areas clean and tidy?

    Ensure back office areas meet cleanliness standards. Tidy offices create a professional environment for customer meetings and administrative work.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Customer data stored securely?

    Confirm back office customer data handling procedures. Secure storage of finance and personal data mitigates risk of breaches.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Employee data stored securely?

    Check secure storage of staff records and sensitive information in back office areas. Proper security satisfies legal obligations and staff trust.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Sales targets visible?

    Ensure sales performance boards and targets are up to date. Visible targets keep the sales team informed and motivated towards monthly objectives.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Vehicle documentation current?

    Confirm vehicle registration documents and compliance certificates are up to date. Current documentation ensures legal vehicle sales and reduces risks.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Financial records compliant?

    Check that financial records meet regulatory requirements. Accurate records ensure compliance with FCA regulations and informed decision-making.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Regular cleaning and maintenance?

    Ensure back office areas receive regular cleaning and maintenance. Preventative maintenance prevents costly repairs and maintains professional standards.

    Comments Images Scorable

Sales Team (10)

Spot check some of the essentials

  • Vibe

    Vehicle product knowledge

    Rate the product knowledge of sales team members regarding vehicle specifications and features. Strong knowledge enables confident selling and better customer support.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Vibe

    Time management skills

    Assess how effectively the sales team manages their time and customer appointments. Good time management improves productivity and customer satisfaction.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Recent customer feedback?

    Check if any customer feedback has been gathered from recent vehicle sales. Collecting feedback identifies improvement areas and celebrates sales success.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    FCA compliance training up to date?

    Verify that all required FCA training for vehicle finance is current. Up-to-date training reduces compliance risks and ensures proper customer treatment.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Number

    Open vacancies

    Number of open vacancies in the sales team. Knowing vacancies supports recruitment planning and workload balancing during busy periods.

    Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Ongoing training current?

    Confirm ongoing product and sales training plans are on schedule. Continuous training maintains skills and ensures up-to-date vehicle knowledge.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Vibe

    Professional appearance

    Rate compliance with dress code and professional appearance standards. Consistent appearance reinforces brand identity and customer confidence.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Discussed career progression?

    Check if career progression opportunities have been discussed with team members. Discussing advancement boosts engagement and retention.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Yes/No

    Know this month's focus?

    Confirm the sales team understands this month's sales priorities and targets. Alignment ensures effort is directed toward key objectives and models.

    Comments Images Scorable
  • Text

    Sales training and development plan?

    Outline the sales training and development plan for the team. Documented plans guide growth and demonstrate investment in sales capability.