Troubleshooter: Should you switch from the dealer to an independent mechanic?

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ICYMI: 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.

 

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drivingdotca A concern with dealer mechanics is that they are young and limited to reading computer diagnoses while lacking real practical mechanical skills. Had a young lad want to change a $1000 control module without noting air cleaner was totally blocked by mouse debris.

drivingdotca God, yes! Half the service charges. Find a guy through word of mouth.

drivingdotca Oil change 200$ then came the nonsense, rotate tire( i had them just install my snowies) air filter,new truck. All said and done dealership wanted 1000$. Watch your wallet, they smell blood sweat AND tears in it.

drivingdotca only time a dealer ever for me when the vehicle is under warranty

drivingdotca Stealership

drivingdotca Under warranty? Dealership Mechanic After warranty? Independent Mechanic

drivingdotca If your car is no longer under warranty, find a good, honest independent mechanic. They appreciate business.

drivingdotca I just booked an oil change. A month to wait is a bit long ?

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