Troubleshooter: Should you switch from the dealer to an independent mechanic? — via drivingdotca Maintenance
It took decades for most automakers to convince their retailers that the true competition for their maintenance and repair departments weren’t other dealerships across town, but instead the independent or chain facilities across the street. When the suits started to look into it all, they found another major hurdle: convenience, or lack thereof. While non-dealer service garages would take in customers at a moment’s notice, dealership service departments booked days or weeks in advance.
What’s the risk with taking new vehicles to indie shops? The use of aftermarket filters for routine services brings a low risk of damaging components; however, if any warranty issues arise related to the operation of those filters, some dealerships may raise concerns with offering repairs. In rare cases like these, the dealership needs to clearly demonstrate that a non-factory part directly caused the problem. This can be avoided by purchasing some factory filters to take to your indie shop.
Carmakers are quick to tell you that only their authorized service departments have access to the latest tech information on their products, and that by taking their vehicles elsewhere you might miss out on a warranty-covered repair or have a repair performed incorrectly. Most indie shops worth their salt have access to manufacturers’ bulletins , and few would suggest their customers pay for a repair that might be a factory-covered plan.
When comparing prices, make sure to consider the associated costs. Whereas prices are just the amount you pay for goods or services, costs include broader factors like quality, lifespan, warranties, and convenience. While, one may offer a better warranty or have immediate access to the parts, while the other might experience delays. Some shops offer loaner vehicles while others do not, and those that do may charge different fees.
Look at what you drive. If your current ride is a popular carry-over model from a line that hasn’t changed much in several years, you’re likely to have multiple sources of reliable service providers; if it’s a brand new or significantly re-engineered model, the situation can be very different. Aftermarket part suppliers decide what to produce based on demand, so newer models posting lower numbers don’t always make the cut.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Travel Troubleshooter: Double-billed by Avis for a van returned after hoursWhen Robert Cipriani returns his Avis minivan, he expects to pay $1,770. Instead, Avis charges him twice. What happened, and how can he get his money back?
Read more »
Nonpartisan journalism is vital to the future of Pa. Here’s how you can keep it going.For Giving Tuesday 2022, support Spotlight PA's independent, nonpartisan investigative journalism for Pennsylvania.
Read more »
Warnock’s closing argument zeroes in on “character and competence”This is part of a broader strategy to target Republican-leaning and independent voters.
Read more »
Patricia Arquette Goes Sheer With Stripes and Sequins for Gotham Awards 2022Academy award-winning actress Patricia Arquette arrived on the red carpet for the 2022 Gotham Awards wearing a formfitting long-sleeve black gown by Fouy Chov Couture. She accessorized the look with a black rock bag by Carat23.
Read more »
Murphy vows review of how he handled COVID crisis will be ‘completely independent’Murphy does not know how much the probe will cost, and some Republicans are calling for a separate legislative investigation.
Read more »
Winners announced at Sask. Independent Film Awards in ReginaThe winners of seven awards were announced this weekend at the ninth annual Saskatchewan Independent Film Awards. saskarts
Read more »