In our last post on this topic, we addressed the hot topic of deciding whether to use an independent local maintenance garage versus an automobile dealership for routine service maintenance work, warranty work, or emergency repairs. Many people feel compelled to go with the dealership when purchasing a new car or a gently used car still under warranty. Others are conflicted because they want to stay with the tried and true neighborhood garage they have formed a relationship with over the years rather than adopting the service schedule established by the dealership/warranty guarantee. There are pros and cons to consider when making this decision. Hopefully by providing you with information, Cassels Garage can help you can make the decision right for you!
Referencing our last blog, the FTC backed Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act legally entitles consumers to shop around for the best servicing without voiding a manufacturer’s warranty. Rules may differ for extended warranties. Of course, read and study your warranty and the language it contains. For example, some warranties prohibit cosmetic changes. Be sure to take care to expressly not do anything which specifically voids the warranty. Otherwise, consumers can choose to have their automobile serviced by an independent service garage without voiding the warranty from a dealership. Dealerships can require customers to use select repair centers if the services are to be provided free of charge. Here are some tips to avoid warranty issues:
- Read the warranty thoroughly.
- Pay attention to the period the warranty covers.
- Follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule to keep warranty intact.
- Keep receipts of ALL service records regardless of who/where service is done. This includes, but not limited to: oil changes, inspections, new brake pads, belt replacements, etc.
Dealerships are often chosen by consumers over independent garages because they believe the dealership is trained to work on the specific make of car purchased. Oftentimes consumers also believe the work will be cheaper and that if they are loyal to the dealer, after the warranty expires, the dealer will be more inclined to help a client who has come in for regular service work. Dealerships are reputed to have longer warranties, competitive pricing, trained mechanics/certified technicians, state of the art equipment, and specialized tools/equipment.
While all of these sound like compelling reasons to go with a dealership over and independent garage, let’s take a look at some of the perks of going with a local auto garage like Cassels Garage:
- Smaller
- Less expensive on average
- High marks for customer service
- Reputation backed by word of mouth
- Local
- Certified
- Full service
- Personal relationships formed with customers
- Variety of services on diverse makes and models
- Facilities and equipment often upgraded
- Personal touch
- Do not over recommend services/follow owner manual or recommendations for normal use
As a local, independent, full service automotive garage serving Melbourne, Florida since 1966, we have kept the same phone number for 40-plus years! We encourage you to educate yourself when it comes to servicing your vehicle at an independent garage. Check out our history on our webpage! “The business has survived many milestones, from wars to hurricanes, from LBJ to George W.” Come on by and experience the same quality and expertise you would expect from a major dealership coupled with the charm and satisfaction of going family owned and operated! Call us with any questions: 321-727-2111.
