O'Brien Automotive Family

It’s a hassle, but you really do have to maintain your car properly if you want it to run well. So where to go? Below I’ve outlined some of the pros and cons of the dealers versus the corner garage. Bear in mind that when I say “corner garage”, I mean smaller, independent repair shops; not the chains like Midas, Jiffy Lube, Meineke or Pep Boys. Those chains, which often specialize in one “area” of the car, fall in a middle ground between the dealerships and the mom-and-pop repair shops.

Why consider the dealership?

• Technicians at the dealer level are specialists; they are manufacturer-trained and typically work only on your make of vehicle. Also, dealers have an ongoing training program for the service staff.
• Dealer service departments most generally provide a shuttle back to your office or home, provided it’s no farther than five miles or so.
• What about warranties? There, the advantage definitely goes to the dealer. First, a dealer will perform repairs for free if your car is still under warranty. Even if you have to pay for repairs outside the warranty period, dealers back up their repairs with a warranty that is good nationwide. Thus, if the repair doesn’t hold, it can be fixed free of charge at any other dealer.
• The dealer also offers manufacturer-backed extended warranties for both new and used vehicle purchases. The manufacturer-backed extended warranties makes service easier because there is a large network of dealers; this is especially important if you plan on moving or do a lot of traveling in your vehicle.
• Because the dealership represents the manufacturer, service departments are required to measure up to corporate standards of customer satisfaction.
• Dealer service departments have a distinct advantage when it comes to manufacturer recalls and technical service bulletins.
• Manufacturers and their dealers offer only OE (Original Equipment) parts, which represent a standard of quality and engineering that only the manufacturer can authorize. A 12-month/12,000-mile warranty on parts and labor for repairs and/or service is not uncommon at the dealer level.
• Dealer facilities are often cleaner, more organized and better maintained than smaller shops. At a dealer facility, you will usually find a waiting room, clean bathrooms, a place to buy car accessories, even the availability of drinks, snacks and television.
• Online appointment scheduling; making the service department available 24 / 7!!

Why the independent shop?

• Many technicians at independent shops are both manufacturer- and A.S.E.-certified, don’t be afraid to ask about their certifications.  Although A.S.E. training is less “make” specific than the manufacturer’s training, the technicians at these facilities can be just as expert in their knowledge, depending on their experience.
• If the repair or service that you need isn’t major, it may be more convenient to drive a short way to your neighborhood repair shop than it is to go to the dealer, especially if you need to leave your car for servicing.
• Small shops can offer warranties on service or repairs, but may not offer the same length of coverage or may cover only the parts or the labor, but not both. If you travel with your vehicle, your warranty may be worthless wherever it is your car decides to give you trouble.
• Local repair shops report to no one but you.
• Automotive service software such as Alldata and Mitchell OnDemand5 allows independent garages to get manufacturer information on recalls and TSBs, updated on a monthly basis. But keep in mind that these are paid memberships and not every corner garage has the software at their disposal.
• The advantage of aftermarket parts is that, like generic prescription drugs, they are supposed to perform the same function for a lot less money. There are times, though, when aftermarket parts are inferior to OE parts.
• So how can small repair shops compete with dealers on facilities? The short answer is: They can’t. .

With all this said … what is my opinion? Obviously, from my perspective, I prefer and have always used the services at a dealership that represents the brand of auto that I drive. That is my comfort zone — and at 60+ years of age, I still have my “Dad in my ear” with his advice —  ”Why would you want to put your second most expensive lifetime purchase in the hands of just anyone?”. However, the decision has to be one that you are comfortable with. Bottom line, find a facility (either a dealership service department or an independent) that you are comfortable with and one that suites your individual needs. Make sure they are highly qualified to do the work. Develop an ongoing relationship with them (don’t hop from shop to shop looking for the next “deal”).

This topic ALWAYS generates differing opinions, we would love to hear yours! Feedback always welcome:)

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