People always wonder, “Should I get my oil changed at a chain service center or at the dealership?” What about tire rotation or scheduled maintenance? While most people believe that they might save money taking their vehicles to chain service centers, in the long run, it’s safer and more cost effective to service your vehicle at a dealership.
When you bring your vehicle in for service at your brand’s dealership, you’ll not only be getting genuine, quality OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts, you’ll also be getting manufacturer certified technicians as well. These mechanics are familiar with your vehicle, its parts, its potential pitfalls and any possible recalls. Bringing your vehicle to an authorized franchise dealership for service also ensures that your warranty remains valid. If an incorrect or inferior part is used, you could void your warranty and that could become a costly mistake.
Additionally, many manufacturer brands include complimentary maintenance for as long as 3 years from the date of purchase. In these cases, in order to make sure you’re getting the correct and complimentary service, you need to visit a participating dealership.
Bringing your vehicle to your brand’s dealership for service also makes it easier to keep track of your service records. Imagine trying to keep your records and receipts organized when you bring your vehicle to different service centers each time you need repairs or maintenance. It’s also more efficient for the same technicians to work on your vehicle over time since they know what maintenance has already been done, which parts have been replaced and when. Those service records will help with resale or trade value in the future. Buyers will be relieved to see reputable and regular maintenance records.
Dealership service departments always run specials, so even if you thought you could save money by visiting another service center, you may want to reconsider. Bringing your vehicle to a dealership service department is your safest bet. You’ll get quality parts, knowledgeable and trained technicians, warranty protection and occasionally even free maintenance. Plus, a convenient and reliable service history. Check out our website for our current service specials or visit one of our dealerships for a service department you can trust.
