BROADVIEW, Ill. – Expanding its reach into social media, the Bosch Service program now has a presence on Facebook and Twitter.

 The Bosch Service network includes Bosch authorized shops that have demonstrated they meet specific criteria set out by the company, such as having specifically trained personnel, approved diagnostic and service equipment, good business practices and clean and comfortable facilities.

More than 1,500 independent repair shops throughout the United States and Canada and some 14,000 shops worldwide are now participating in this shop evaluation and certification program, first developed by Bosch in 1921.

The new social media initiative on Facebook and Twitter will allow Bosch to offer "followers" special discounts and other incentives through participating shops in the Bosch Service network. The two outlets also can help motorists locate an authorized Bosch Service shop that specializes in the specific make and model of their vehicle.

"Followers" on Facebook and Twitter will receive tips on maintenance and service of their vehicles. They also can comment on the quality of service they’ve received at authorized Bosch Service centers, ask questions of other motorists and receive answers to technical and diagnostic questions from Bosch experts.

“We believe it is important to reach our customers through the media they use the most,” said Michael Lippman, concept manager for the Bosch Car Service network. “With the huge growth in the number of people using social media for their informational needs, it became apparent that we needed a strong presence there.”