- Motors
WHEELY SMART
Experienced mechanics say to save your money - don't go to the dealership for simple fixes
- Kristen Brown, Motors Reporter
AN experienced mechanic says 10 common fixes shouldn't be done at a dealership's service center to avoid high labor and parts costs.
Instead, go to a specialist or independent shop for a cheaper repair bill.
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Ryan Ratkowski, an experienced mechanic and owner of Motorcycle Maestros, says people look to dealerships for reliable and cost-effective places to get repairs done.
However, in his experience, dealerships tend to upcharge on parts and labor to maximize their profits.
Doing so costs the customer hundreds of dollars for simple fixes which Ratkowski says can be done at other service centers for much cheaper.
The first repairs he said should be done elsewhere are tire rotations and replacements.
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"You can get your tires rotated or replaced at many other service stations or tire shops often for less money and with quicker service," Ratkowski told GoBankingRates.
"Many tire shops will throw in rotations for free if you buy your tires from them. These services are often available at better rates at tire specialty shops, where the staff are highly focused and experienced in tire care."
Bodywork or aftermarket installations are better done by a specialist, according to CFR Classic owner Joe Giranda.
"Another service often bypassed at dealerships is aftermarket installations, such as audio systems or vehicle wraps," he said.
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"Specialty shops not only provide a wider range of options but also possess the specific expertise that dealerships might lack, ensuring a higher quality and customization level."
Instead, wraps, paint jobs, and dent repairs should be done at a licensed body shop to ensure fair pricing and a quality product.
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Replacing wiper blades, Ratkowski said, can be done at home, as installation instructions are posted to the wiper blade's box.
It may seem daunting, but you'd learn a new skill and save nearly hundreds for a simple repair.
"Dealerships might use this as an opportunity to tack on extra service fees," he said.
"Grab some from an auto parts store and change them in your parking lot."
If a windshield needs replacing, Giranda said the dealership should be a last resort, as an auto glass specialist shop can do a better job at a friendlier price.
"Windshield replacement is another service best handled by specialists," he said.
Dealerships have their place, especially for warranty work or recalls, but for regular maintenance, you’re often better off taking matters into your own hands or going to a specialist.
Ryan RatkowskiOwner of Motorcycle Maestros
"These shops often offer faster service and competitive pricing compared to dealerships."
Oil changes, unless they're part of the new car warranty or come free with a package, aren't worth being done at the dealership due to higher parts and labor costs.
Instead, local garages or chain stores may be a more cost-effective option for many drivers.
Ratkowski suggests that drivers learn how to change their own oil to save even more money.
"Dealerships can charge an arm and a leg for a simple oil change that you can do in your driveway for a fraction of the price," he said.
"Plus, it gives you a chance to get up close and personal with your engine, and you know exactly what quality of oil and filter is being used."
Signs your car battery needs replacing
Even without a battery tester, there are a few signs your battery is on its way out, according to NAPA Auto Parts:
The lifespan of a battery varies depending on the climate, the condition of the terminals, the type of battery, and the condition of the alternator.
However, there are a few tell-tale signs the battery may need replacing soon.
- Your car is having trouble starting. If your car is taking a little longer to start than normal, it could be a sign your battery is having trouble providing the necessary amount of power to start.
- Your car won't start at all. This is a late sign of a dying battery, but if the car isn't starting or attempting to when you turn the key, the most likely culprit is a dead battery.
- Electrical mishaps like the radio not turning on.
If the battery is relatively new, a few things can be checked before replacing it to see if its performance improves:
- Corrosion on the terminals. Sometimes corrosion can build up on the terminals and make it more difficult for the battery to distribute power, which can cause difficulty starting. Corrosion can be cleaned off with a wire brush.
- Physical damage. Since some automakers have the batteries in places like the trunk instead of the engine bay, an item rolling around in the trunk could have knocked something loose or caused damage.
- Age. The lifespan of a battery depends on the battery type, but the standard rule is between three to five years. Glass mat batteries, however, can last six to eight years - though they are more expensive.
Source: NAPA Auto Parts
Replacing a battery is another repair that can easily be done from home, and can save hundreds in parts and labor - most batteries can be replaced with simple tools that everyone has, and can be done in less than 10 minutes.
Fluid top-offs, brake pad replacements, and spark plugs are all repairs that can be done from home with a basic tool set.
If not, it's imperative to find a trusted mechanic that you trust your vehicle with - but unless it's for warranty work, dealerships should be avoided.
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"Dealerships have their place, especially for warranty work or recalls, but for regular maintenance, you’re often better off taking matters into your own hands or going to a specialist," said Ratkowski.
"Keep your car’s maintenance manual handy, invest in some basic tools, and you’ll be set to handle most of these tasks yourself."
