Dealerships vs. Auto Repair Shops-Who Should You Trust With Your Auto Repairs? – Auto Therapy- (Full Service Automotive Repair) Geneva, IL. 60134
Dealerships vs. Auto Repair Shops-Who Should You Trust With Your Auto Repairs? – Auto Therapy- (Full Service Automotive Repair) Geneva, IL. 60134
People have always had a love affair with their automobiles, especially when they are running correctly. Choosing a good repair facility for your automobile is like choosing a good internist for your body. You want someone that views longevity as a goal. Just like humans, automobiles need routine maintenance to avoid the breakdown of major automobile components and auto parts. If and when you are faced with the failure of these automobile components, you want someone that understands what your automobile has been through and can handle the repair and get you back on the road. Haven’t decided between taking your automobile to the dealership or your local auto repair shop for repairs? Check out the below differences that may help you decide.
1. Skill Set & Training
Dealership- A lot of auto mechanics start out as an apprentice at a dealership and as they acquire knowledge and experience repairing a particular make or model of automobile, they will eventually move on to be considered a line mechanic for that particular manufacturer (Buick, Chrysler, Chevy etc.). Some dealer mechanics are trained by the manufacturer but some learn as they go.
Auto Repair Shops- A lot of auto mechanics trained at dealerships go on to open their own auto repair facility. Although they have specialized skills repairing a specific manufacturer they can broaden their skill set through personal knowledge and their ASE Master Certification. Ask your ASE Certified Master Mechanic about their background to get better acquainted with their skill set.
2. ASE Certified Master Mechanic and Technician Accessibility
Dealership- When you bring your automobile to a dealership, there is normally a hierarchy involved in the initial communication of the problem (Service Writer), your agreement to the repair work (Service Manager) and ultimate repair of your Automobile (Mechanic). At a dealership, you rarely meet the auto mechanic that repaired your automobile. Sometimes there can be a breakdown in communication between the three parties if the process is not managed properly causing repeat visits to the dealership.
Auto Repair Shops- When you bring your automobile to an independent auto repair facility, you will most likely find that the hierarchy diminishes and the customer service increases dramatically. Auto repair shops rely greatly on “Word of Mouth” and “Customer Satisfaction” for repeat business. In this situation, you may meet the owner, the staff and the auto mechanic that will perform the repairs on your automobile. An independent auto repair facility will know your automobile inside and out and will be able to anticipate future problems through preventative maintenance. In this instance, you will not be considered just another number.
3. “Labor” Costs
Dealerships- Dealerships naturally have higher overhead costs due to the size of the facilities and staff that is needed to keep it running. This is turn is passed on to the consumer in labor costs. It is also not hard to find a huge disparity in the mark up of the auto repair parts prices unless your automobile is under warranty.
Auto Repair Shops- Overhead for smaller auto repair facilities will be less due to the size of the facility and staff. This in turn can be passed onto the consumer in lowered labor costs and competitive auto parts pricing.
Choosing between a dealership and an auto repair shop can be a tough decision. When all is said and done, it boils down to the age of your automobile, your budget and personal preference. Educating yourself is something that will help you feel good about your decision.
Tony Rudny ASE Certified Master Mechanic
Auto Therapy
560 Lark St. Geneva, IL 60134
1-630-208-1111
Website: www.automotivetherapy.com
Facebook: Tony Rudny or Auto Therapy
Twitter: @TonyRudnyASE