Corner Garage vs. Dealer Service Department
- October 7, 2025
- Uncategorized
- Posted by Chad Baus
- Comments Off on Corner Garage vs. Dealer Service Department
These little-known bulletins can save you money on repairs
Today’s cars are more reliable and low-maintenance than ever thanks to advances in engine technology, car computer systems and more robust build quality. But “low-maintenance” doesn’t substitute for “no maintenance.” Whether your car is brand spanking new or wearing the patina of age, it requires proper maintenance. Assuming you’re not doing the work yourself (and sometimes even if you are), you’ll be visiting a dealership or independent mechanic, with all the accompanying pros and cons of each.
The pros and cons of dealership service are numerous. In favor are technicians who are skilled in your brand, up-to-date repairs and methods, and manufacturer-backed warranties, while the cons include higher prices, limited parts choice and less personalized service. Independents, meanwhile, typically cost less and range from general repair and maintenance shops to expert technicians and specialists who can offer service tailored more specifically to your car and needs.
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. Then again, it might be better to get your car serviced at an independent if it’s older and a low price is priority.
Below we’ll look at some of the differences between dealership and independent service and helpfully answer the question “Should I take my car to the dealership for service?” Parts and repairs are big business in the U.S., estimated to generate $177 billion in 2023 between dealerships and independents, so it pays to know the best choice for you.
Bear in mind that “independent” means smaller repair shops, not chains like Midas, Jiffy Lube, Meineke or Pep Boys. Those chains, which often specialize in one area of a car (transmission, oil, brakes, for example), fall in a middle ground between the big boy dealerships and small-business repair shops.
