If you’re like most New Yorkers, you may dread the idea of getting your car serviced. Whether you’re stuck on a train, riding in a taxi or walking to your car, things can go wrong.
Choosing the right auto shop for your car is crucial. You can start by asking for referrals from friends and family.
Dealerships
Dealerships specialize in servicing and repairing the make, model and type of vehicle they sell. Typically, they employ factory-trained technicians who are familiar with the cars in their shop. As such, they are often considered the best choice for service or repair jobs, especially if you own a new or certified pre-owned vehicle that is still covered under its manufacturer warranty. You may also be able to use dealerships to fix issues that are part of a specific service campaign or recall.
However, there are some things you should know before taking your car to a dealer for service or repairs. First, they’re more expensive than independent auto shops because they carry higher overhead and operating costs. They also tend to mark up parts and materials by a significant amount. If you’re shopping around for service, a great way to get an idea of prices is to visit several dealerships and compare them.
Another thing to keep in mind is that dealerships have a reputation for selling high-quality vehicles and providing exemplary customer service. If you find the staff at a particular dealership to be unpleasant, unprofessional or even hostile, it’s probably a good idea to shop elsewhere. The same goes for facilities that are run down and poorly maintained. If you notice a dealer’s showroom or service area is dirty and disorganized, it’s probably time to move on.
Lastly, dealerships require you to schedule service appointments and wait longer than independent auto shops to have your vehicle repaired or serviced. This is because they work with a lot of vehicles, and it can take a while to get your car in for repair or maintenance. If you’re on a tight schedule, this is a major consideration.
Some dealerships offer a variety of amenities to help you spend less time at the service center, such as free Wi-Fi, comfy chairs and complimentary car washes. Some also have shuttles or rideshare credit to make it easier to run errands while your vehicle is being worked on. If you’re a regular customer, ask about possible maintenance deals and other perks.
Auto Shops
Auto repair shops that provide quality car service are a vital resource for drivers. In addition to servicing a vehicle, they also help drivers make the best decision about repairs and replacement parts. They may offer a wide range of services or specialize in a particular type of repair. Some are even family-owned and operated. When choosing a shop, it is important to consider customer satisfaction and the mechanics’ certifications. In addition, it is crucial to check whether a shop is licensed and insured.
Some repair shops are certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). This certification is not a guarantee that a particular shop is legitimate, but it is a good indicator that the mechanics have received substantial training. In addition, some repair shops are affiliated with the American Automobile Association (AAA), which demonstrates their commitment to providing high-quality service.
A reputable auto shop will clearly explain the necessary repairs and prices to their customers before beginning work. This includes telling them how long the work is expected to take and what they will do if unexpected expenses arise. In addition, they should be willing to give a detailed written estimate of all repair costs and labor charges.
It is also crucial to choose a shop that uses OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts instead of generic or aftermarket parts. This will ensure that your repair job is performed correctly and according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Using aftermarket parts can cause problems down the road and result in additional costs.
When choosing a shop, call several nearby repair shops and ask about their prices and the qualifications of their mechanics. You should also look for an online review of the shop. A few small complaints shouldn’t dissuade you from choosing a particular shop, but if a shop is consistently rated poorly, it may be wise to look elsewhere.
It is also a good idea to ask the shop about its refund policy. If you feel that you have been overcharged for a repair or received poor-quality repairs, you can file a complaint with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The DMV can require a shop to pay restitution to the consumer if they have committed certain offenses.
Independent Mechanics
If you want to start fostering a relationship with your mechanic in order to build trust and loyalty (which can lead to future discounts and negotiations), it’s a good idea to find a reputable independent shop near you. In fact, Consumer Reports surveys have shown that reputable independent repair facilities typically rank higher than dealership service for customer satisfaction, price, quality, and courteousness.
Independent shops have several advantages over dealerships, including cheaper rates for parts and labor. Mechanics at independent shops are also less likely to have to use original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts, which can save you money in the long run. Additionally, many independent mechanics are able to offer the same services as dealerships like warranties and roadside assistance.
Another benefit of going to an independent shop is that you may be able to speak directly with the mechanic who worked on your car. Often times, when you go to a dealership, there are several people who could have had a hand in servicing your vehicle, such as service advisors and lot porters. Depending on the scope of your repairs, this can make it difficult to know who is to blame when something goes wrong with your vehicle.
Finally, some people feel that mechanics at independent shops have a greater breadth of knowledge about different makes of cars than the technicians at a dealership. This is because dealership technicians have to focus on the brands they sell, while many independent mechanics work on a wide range of vehicles.
As always, there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing between a dealership and an independent mechanic. It all depends on your preferences, budget, and location. If you have a warranty on your car and live near a dealer, then it makes sense to take it to the dealership. However, if you prefer to keep your car’s maintenance up to date and don’t mind paying more for parts, then an independent shop might be the best option.
Regardless of where you choose to get your car serviced, be sure to ask for an estimate before having any work done. Getting an accurate quote will help ensure that you don’t get overcharged for any repairs or unnecessary services. In addition, it’s a good idea to get a second opinion if you’re unsure about any repairs that your mechanic suggests.
Warranty
A warranty can make a big difference in the quality of car service you receive. The best way to find a good warranty provider is to get recommendations from people you trust. When people recommend a company, it is usually because they have had a positive experience. This is an excellent sign that you are likely to have a positive experience with the company as well.
When shopping for a warranty, it is important to read the fine print and consider what is covered. Many companies have different coverage levels and exclusions. Choosing the right one will depend on your needs and budget. For example, a high-end plan may cover the cost of repairing or replacing more components than a basic plan. A car service center should be able to answer any questions you have about the type of coverage that they offer.
In addition, it is wise to keep records of your vehicle maintenance, regardless of who performs the work. These records can be very helpful when it comes time to file a claim. If a warranty company determines that your repairs were not necessary or that you did not maintain the car properly, the claim may be denied.
If you are looking for a car service contract, you should choose one that is affordable and provides top-notch protection. A reputable extended warranty company will have an A+ BBB rating and good customer reviews. They will also have a reputation for prompt, efficient customer service. You should also consider whether the company is affiliated with any industry organizations, as this can indicate their level of expertise and commitment to quality car service.