- A template is required to message a customer first through the WhatsApp Business API, or more than 24 hours after their last message.
- Meta classifies each template as marketing, utility or authentication. Utility templates are cheaper and free inside an open customer service window.
- Variables are written {{1}}, {{2}}. A template must not start or end with a variable, and two variables cannot sit side by side.
- Below: 20 templates across the dealership journey, to adapt to your brand and language.
Sales: first contact and test drive
Hello {{1}}, thank you for your interest in the {{2}}. It is available at our {{3}} showroom. Would you like a walkaround video or a test drive?
Hello {{1}}, your test drive of the {{2}} is confirmed for {{3}} with {{4}}. Location: {{5}}. Reply 1 to confirm or 2 to reschedule.
Hello {{1}}, a reminder of your test drive tomorrow at {{2}}. Please bring your driving licence. See you soon.
Hello {{1}}, thank you for visiting today. Do you have any questions about the {{2}}? I am happy to help here.
Hello {{1}}, a {{2}} matching what you were looking for has just arrived. Would you like to see it before it is listed? Reply STOP to opt out.
Trade-in and finance
Hello {{1}}, to value your {{2}} before your visit, please send 4 photos: front, rear, dashboard with the engine on, and the service book.
Hello {{1}}, based on your photos, the indicative trade-in value of your {{2}} is {{3}}, subject to inspection. Shall we book the inspection?
Hello {{1}}, to prepare your finance application for the {{2}}, we need: {{3}}. You can send clear photos here.
Hello {{1}}, good news: your finance for the {{2}} has been approved. When would you like to come in to sign?
Hello {{1}}, your {{2}} is ready for delivery. We can hand it over on {{3}} or {{4}}. Which suits you?
After-sales and service
Hello {{1}}, your {{2}} (plate {{3}}) is due for its service. We have slots on {{4}}. Reply with a time that works for you.
Hello {{1}}, your {{2}} is ready for collection. Our service centre is open until {{3}} today.
Hello {{1}}, during the service we found {{2}}. The cost is {{3}}. Reply YES to approve or call your advisor.
Hello {{1}}, the registration of your {{2}} expires on {{3}}. We can handle the inspection for you. Would you like a slot?
Hello {{1}}, before the peak of summer, our air-conditioning check for your {{2}} takes 30 minutes. Would you like to book? Reply STOP to opt out.
Follow-up and loyalty
Hello {{1}}, just checking in about the {{2}}. If you have any questions, reply here. If you are no longer looking, reply NO and we will not message again.
Hello {{1}}, thank you for choosing us for your {{2}}. A quick review would mean a lot: {{3}}
Hello {{1}}, one year ago you drove away in your {{2}}. Enjoy a complimentary check this month: reply to book. Reply STOP to opt out.
Hello {{1}}, our Ramadan hours are {{2}}. Test drives and service are available by appointment. Ramadan Kareem. Reply STOP to opt out.
Hello {{1}}, do you know someone looking for a car? Refer them and receive {{2}} when they buy. Reply STOP to opt out.
Why templates get rejected
- A variable at the very start or end of the text.
- Vague wording that hides the context (“Your request has been processed”).
- A promotion hidden inside a utility template: Meta reclassifies it as marketing.
- Shortened or suspicious links.
Meta’s rules are in the WhatsApp Business Messaging Policy, and prices by category and country in its pricing documentation; see also WhatsApp API pricing in the Gulf.
Templates start conversations; speed wins them. Read why reply speed decides the sale, and see WhatsApp for car dealerships in the Gulf.
Sources: WhatsApp Business Messaging Policy · Meta, WhatsApp Business Platform pricing
Frequently asked questions
Do car dealers need WhatsApp templates?
Yes, to message a customer first through the API, or more than 24 hours after their last message. Replies within 24 hours of the customer’s message do not need a template.
Should templates be in Arabic or English?
Both. Create each template in the languages your customers use and send the version that matches their preference.
Is a test drive reminder utility or marketing?
Utility, as long as it only concerns the booked test drive. Adding an offer turns it into marketing.
How long does template approval take?
Often minutes, sometimes up to 24 hours. Rejected templates can be edited and resubmitted.