Whether your vehicle is factory-fresh or simply new-to-you, routine upkeep is essential. But should you rely on the dealership’s service department, your neighborhood mechanic, or one of the many national car-service chains? Here are some questions to consider before you decide where to bring your car:
Is the Vehicle New or Pre-Owned?
If you’re purchasing a new ride, see if it includes a manufacturer service package or if you can buy one. These service plans typically cover routine items like oil changes and tire rotations for a set duration. Automakers that provide these plans, such as Toyota, usually advertise them prominently, so you should know whether you have coverage.
With a service plan, free maintenance must be redeemed at a dealer’s service center. That allows you to have work done at any dealership linked to your brand, but it prevents you from using an independent shop.
Owners of used cars have greater latitude when selecting a service provider, though you’ll be paying out of pocket. Without a manufacturer plan tying you down, you can compare chains like Valvoline or Jiffy Lube, or check out locally owned garages to find the best combination of price and quality.
Even with a pre-owned vehicle, you’re still free to take it to a dealership that specializes in your car’s make.
Does a Warranty Cover Your Car?
Most repairs on a new or certified pre-owned vehicle fall under the manufacturer’s warranty. If that applies to you, the work must be completed at a dealership to avoid charges.
Your warranty also permits service at any franchise that sells your brand. So if you relocate or have a bad experience with one dealer, you can go to another and keep your repair covered.
Vehicles sold as certified pre-owned by a dealer usually include a limited warranty. Any warranty repairs should be handled by the dealer to prevent out-of-pocket expenses. If your car is no longer under warranty, you can choose any service provider you prefer (but you will pay).
Do You Prefer a Certified Technician?
Dealerships employ technicians certified by the automaker. These credentials must be maintained for the dealer to continue servicing its branded vehicles. That means the technicians at a dealership receive brand-specific training and are often more familiar with your model than independent mechanics.
Routine services like oil changes and tire rotations don’t demand specialized training, so a local garage or national chain will usually be fine. Call around to compare prices and decide which option gives you the best value.
Is There an Open Recall on Your Car?
Manufacturers issue recalls frequently, for matters ranging from small switch defects to major safety problems (remember the Takata airbag recall?). If your car needs a recall repair, you must use the dealer.
Dealership service centers receive funds from the manufacturer to remedy recall items, and they will handle the fix for free. If you bring the car to a chain or independent mechanic, you would likely be responsible for the cost.
What Will It Cost?
Cost is a major factor in choosing where to service your vehicle. If a dealer quotes $500 for a repair that a local mechanic will do for $200, the choice seems straightforward.
While price matters, it’s equally important to trust the mechanic you pick. Saving money is great, but if the workmanship is poor, are those savings worth the risk? Inferior repairs could jeopardize your safety on the road.
Fortunately, there are many reliable mechanics out there. You just need to find them. Ask friends for referrals to local shops and compare quotes to land a good price. Also check review platforms like Google, Yelp, DealerRater and Bing for feedback.
Are Dealerships Always Pricier?
That depends on your location and the type of service required. Your dealership might charge $35 for an oil change while the Valvoline down the street asks $50 — in that case, the dealer is the logical choice.
But for some jobs, you might save by avoiding the dealer.
For instance, I recently had a trailer hitch fitted to my Subaru Outback. My local Subaru dealer quoted $560 for parts and labor before tax. After calling around, I had the hitch installed at U-Haul for $235 plus tax. I trusted U-Haul as a national provider, so I went with them even though I usually prefer to use the Subaru dealer for service.
If your car is newer and still under warranty, staying with the dealership service center ensures technicians familiar with your brand work on your vehicle. Conversely, owners of used cars may find better pricing at independent garages or national chains.
Use recommendations to find quality service centers, and channel your inner Savinly to hunt down the best deal for maintenance or repairs.
Marissa Cole has covered the automotive beat for six years. Outside of work, she likes cooking, running and watching animated films with her three-year-old son.
