So I’m curious: What is the real difference between taking a car to the dealer vs. taking it to an independent garage? What is their motivation? What is the upside or downside to sticking with one or the other? These probably seem like obvious questions, but I’m new to car ownership & could use some…

It’s not only price. The dealership has more training availible to them. The indie does also but not as much. But with that said it also has alot to do with having a sharp tech. Dealerships do not always insist on using thier parts. One qouted me a price on thier brand and I asked them to qoute aft…

it depends on what you are talking about. it took you several posts and replies to even mention an ‘engine’ problem. you should state the whole story, and some relevant details.

Like the others, mostly cost but I’ve had good and bad luck with both. If it is a possible recall issue though, I’d be inclined to go to the dealer. They have a better knowledge of the particular type of car, have seen it before, have specific training, tools, and support. For a newer car, or com…

sure cappy, here is the backstory: http://community.cartalk.com/posts/list/1041210.page

Thank you Bing, that sounds like very balanced and logical advice.

Dealers in general tend to be more pricey in both labor and parts. I use dealer mostly when car is new and if they satisfy me I stick with them. Recently though my dealer service managers changed and now recommend unneeded by maintenance. Fortunately a really experienced in my car make indy shop op…

OP, just to add a bit here. If you go to the dealer talk to them about this low compression and suspected tight valve lash problem before authorizing any diagnosis or repairs. Try to find out in advance if Honda Motor Co. will good will this repair for you up front IF that is what the problem is. Ba…

Jad Since this is a brand-new member, it could be the dreaded mmsamma, but then again, I tend to think not. If you notice, that post has no grammatical or spelling errors, the spacing is correct, and the words “please” and “thanks” were used. Mmsamma was never capable of any of these niceties. Y…

In addition to the price difference, the SATISFACTION level is also considerably lower at dealer shops. Consumer Reports surveyed this very subject in the May issue. The results were from 146,000 replies. The satisfaction rate of dealer shops was 53% and independent garages 71%. The Volkswagen shop…

Dealer vs. garage: what's the dealio?

Maintenance/Repairs

cappy208 May 8, 2008, 9:51am 19

you don’t HAVE to go to a dealer. but you should find one who specializes in japanese imports.

ask friends neighbors co workers for recommendations for a different shops near you.

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Dealer vs. garage: what's the dealio?

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