Choosing to take your vehicle to a dealership for repairs and maintenance instead of a local Subaru auto mechanic can be an expensive mistake. While dealerships claim to have specially trained mechanics, better equipment, and exclusively OEM parts, only two of these aspects are true, and neither one matters. Every auto shop has specific equipment geared towards manufacturer vehicles. The type of diagnostic equipment a shop uses isn’t nearly as important as the skills of the mechanic that interprets the data.
OEM Parts and Specific Training Don’t Matter
The letters OEM stand for original equipment manufacturer. While these parts are more expensive, they are not necessarily better quality. There are many aftermarket parts that offer longer warranties and are built with better materials. An independent mechanic is likely to offer you several options for repair, so you can choose between OEM and aftermarket parts. It’s true that some non-OEM parts have an inferior build or fitting issues, but that’s determined by the maker. A local Subaru technician will provide you with non-OEM parts that are as reliable and high-performing as OEM parts. They may even exceed manufacturer specifications. Why would you pay more for lesser quality parts?
Even at a car dealership, you’re not guaranteed a mechanic with vehicle-specific training. Dealerships have no prerequisites when hiring mechanics. They base their hiring decisions on a variety of factors, just like an independent Boulder Subaru technician. While some mechanics have earned diplomas or certification in engine repair, overall experience is the top factor that any shop looks for. The idiosyncrasies found between manufacturers and vehicle systems can be learned over time. Good auto repair shops hire the best mechanics and instill any necessary additional knowledge as they go along. As a cross-manufacturer discipline, vehicle repair skills carry over. Why should you pay a higher bill at a dealership if their mechanics have the same level of training as a local Subaru auto mechanic?
You May Legally Choose Your Own Car Parts and Mechanic
It used to be you had to take your vehicle to a dealership for repairs so as not to void your warranty. These days, dealerships no longer have a stranglehold on the industry. You can legally take your Subaru to any mechanic you choose. Your warranty cannot be voided by the parts you choose either.
Why a Dealership Charges Extra
So, if all the above is true, why do dealerships charge so much money? The sad answer is because they can. Dealerships will claim they provide superior service to scare you into getting your maintenance and repairs done there. The truth is you’re paying an additional OEM parts cost and an additional branding cost in return for service, maintenance, and repairs that are no better than your Boulder Subaru technician.
What You Can Do About It
The best way to decide where to take your vehicle is to look at the service the auto repair shop provides. Most shops will warranty their work, whether they are a dealership or an independent. The competition pushes them to improve. However, while an independent auto mechanic can justify their costs, it’s rare to find a dealership that can.
When you’re ready to eliminate high costs and get quality Subaru maintenance and repair, call the Subaru Clinic. With years of experience, we’ll keep your favorite vehicle running smoothly and efficiently so you can have a safe winter season.
