The automobile dealership: benefits and drawbacks
If your vehicle experiences an issue covered by warranty, the dealer is the best choice for repairs. Dealership service representatives are knowledgeable about your vehicle, have accomplished factory-approved training, and have access to service records, warranty history, repairs, recalls, software updates, and a network of other dealers to seek the advice of when needed. Dealers may easily access manufacturer-provided data and resources to make quick repairs, even for complex issues.
Having your automobile serviced on the dealer reduces the chance of certain warranty issues, which we’ll discuss in additional detail later. It also helps ensure your automobile or truck is up thus far with all recalls and software updates, leading to safer and fully optimized driving.
Of course, you’re free to have your automobile serviced and serviced wherever you wish. Maybe your favorite tire shop handles seasonal tire rotations, and also you get your oil modified or suspension repaired at a store near your work during your lunch break. These relatively inexpensive maintenance and repair services (and others including brake work, air filter changes, and exhaust system repairs) are also widely available at non-contracted repair shops and will be more convenient.
Keep in mind that depending on the upkeep required, the dealer could also be your best or only option. For example, latest cars are increasingly being built with electronics and systems that require specialized training and equipment that will only be available from a dealer.
My typical advice to family and friends is to have their vehicle serviced by a dealer as often as possible throughout the warranty period, every time a transmission fluid change is required, for electronics issues, and for major electrical vehicle (EV) maintenance. or hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) and specifically for maintenance work related to its powertrain or electronics. (More on this below.)
Additionally, by servicing and repairing your vehicle exclusively on the dealer, you’ll be able to profit from the next resale value and a better and faster sale – saving you money and time. This is because you’ll be able to advertise your automobile as “dealer serviced with all documentation,” giving potential buyers additional peace of mind that maintenance, repairs, and updates are current, warranty compliant, and supported by the vehicle’s dealer network.
In summary, whilst you do not have to service your latest vehicle entirely under the dealership roof, doing so might help streamline the job and prevent time. Remember: If you observed an issue covered by warranty, contact your dealer first.
ADVANTAGES
- Better access to sharing
- Can service complex and specialized models
- All mandatory equipment, parts and training
- Access to manufacturer resources and technical support
- 100% guaranteed parts and labor
Disadvantages
- Often costlier than other options
