Generally, it is cheaper to repair your car at an auto repair shop than a dealership shop. For the period your car has a warranty, it is definitely cheaper to take it to a dealership as it will be repaired for free. But afterwards, it will be cheaper to shift to an auto repair shop as long as you find a good one.
A good rule of thumb is to find an independent mechanic for all routine work such as maintenance, brakes, exhaust, and so forth, but to go to a dealership for major problems that might require specialized knowledge of your particular vehicle.
Generally if you go to the dealership you will pay more than the local mechanic shop. HOWEVER, the quality of the work will be better at the dealership as they will ensure the vehicle is in top condition.
Getting your vehicle serviced at the dealership is also one of the best ways to ensure that it receives genuine OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts. Whether it's spark plugs, oil filters or brake pads, the best parts are often the ones your car came with when it rolled off the assembly line.
In summary, dealerships tend to be more expensive, especially for routine repairs, while independent mechanics can offer a more cost-effective solution for many services. However, the best choice can vary based on the specific situation and type of repair needed.
Generally, it is cheaper to repair your car at an auto repair shop than a dealership shop. For the period your car has a warranty, it is definitely cheaper to take it to a dealership as it will be repaired for free. But afterwards, it will be cheaper to shift to an auto repair shop as long as you find a good one.
Negotiating Your Repairs
Never shy away from discussing your concerns with your mechanic or service center. Open a conversation about potential discounts or any promotional offers that might be running. Some service centers even provide flexible payment plans to help spread out the cost.
In most cases, it doesn't matter if you take your car to a dealership or local auto shop for an oil change. Quick-service oil change franchises are often more convenient than your dealership. Most dealership service centers have competitive rates and offer coupons and discounts — much like franchise shops.
The car dealership's parts and service department is another major profit center. Dealerships make money by selling service contracts, charging for routine maintenance, and selling parts and accessories. Service contracts are one of the most profitable things a dealership can sell.
A dealership is often better for more seasoned technicians (those with a few years of experience). While this isn't exclusively the case and many dealerships hire fresh mechanics, you might not get the same level of training attention in a dealership.
One of the most informative steps you can take before purchasing is to have an independent mechanic check out a used car. According to Nicole Miskelley, PMR Auto & Diesel Repair manager, "Most reputable dealerships allow this, but some may have a salesperson ride along for safety.
Car insurance may help cover the cost of repairs if the issue is the result of a collision or another covered incident, such as theft or fire. But repairs for routine wear and tear or mechanical breakdowns are typically not covered by an auto insurance policy.
Dealership: Dealerships may rush repairs due to high demand, which can potentially affect the quality of the repairs you receive. In some cases, the work may be outsourced to an outside shop that may or may not care about quality. Auto Body Shop: Reputable body shops often deliver superior repair quality.
Key Takeaway: Local mechanics can save you a significant amount of money and time. They are a great option for routine maintenance, vehicles out of warranty, and anyone who values personal service. However, be mindful of the potential trade-offs when it comes to specialized repairs or warranty coverage.
And while the old rule of thumb was to change your oil every 3,000 miles or so, modern automotive technology has stretched that figure even further. Due to better engineering and better oil formulations, now you can expect between 7,500 to 10,000 miles between oil changes!
Because of their large overhead and operating costs, dealerships tend to charge more for services and repairs than independent auto shops. Dealerships' technicians are also more specialized, which often demands a higher fee. This can come in the form of hourly labor rates as well as markup on parts and materials.
Commissions on new car sales vary from one dealership to another, but the usual range is from a 20-to-30 percent of the profit.
The reality is that car dealerships are actually a lot like grocery stores — they rely heavily on volume to make money, and they don't actually make much on each individual sale. 👉 Car dealerships make money from three primary areas of their operation; Sales, Service, and the Finance and Insurance (F&I) departments.
In fact, your car will have fewer emergencies, because your mechanic will know what to look for, and can give your vehicle the service it needs before any problems may occur. So, the next time you need your car's oil changed, bring it to a full service repair shop that you trust.
In some cases, dealerships may also charge more to cover labor costs or because they use a specific brand of oil. It's worth noting, though, that most dealerships do run specials on oil changes, so it's worth checking for one before you make an appointment.
You might want to take your car to a dealership for service if it's still fairly new, for example — and certainly for any repairs covered under warranty. Dealerships have access to the latest news and updates direct from the manufacturer, which is often slower to reach the independents.
If the cost of repairs exceeds the car's value, it's probably best to get a new car instead. Sometimes, when a car with high mileage needs a significant repair or if your car is totaled, you might consider replacing it with a new or used vehicle.