LONG BEACH, Calif. — Auto dealer software provider myKaarma announced the release of a new app feature designed to enable simple video walkarounds for service departments. The video walkaround app feature is the simplest way to record any damage to a vehicle, speed up the check-in process, virtually eliminate damage claims, and increase upsell opportunities, according to the company.

Users open the app, turn on the video, walk around the vehicle and, when any damage is found, record it on the spot. The advisor taps the screen, the app adds a photo of the damage and offers a list of tags such as “dent,” “damage” and “scratch” so the advisor can quickly identify and tag the area of damage for future review. The videos and pictures are then uploaded to the cloud and chronologically stitched together, creating a free-flowing video that pauses for three seconds on each picture, allowing the customer to view as desired. Any area of interest is clearly marked with a circle, highlighting the area of damage so it can be clearly viewed.

The app can also be used by technicians, customized on an individual basis to include labels such as oil leak, battery, alignment, and tire damage. According to Ujj Nath, myKaarma’s chairman and CEO, dealers are reporting greater success in authorizations when these technician videos are sent to customers prior to calling for approval.

“The customer receives a text with a link that opens to a screen where they can view the pictures and videos from the walkaround. These videos help uncover additional revenue through damage inspections and the transparent process builds customer trust and confidence,” Nath said. “Our dealers are also enjoying tremendous results by improving the vehicle check-in process with integrated video check-in reports that virtually eliminate damage claims.”

Visit myKaarma at Booth 1047N at the NADA convention in Las Vegas.