It’s time to service your automobile, but you don’t know where to bring your car. Should you bring it to the car dealership or a local independent automotive shop? Of course, you want great service at a competitive price. When searching for auto mechanics near me, bring your car to Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville.
Car Dealership Vs. Local Auto Repair Shop
Maintenance is an important part of keeping your car running efficiently. Certain tasks, like getting your oil changed, are crucial for extending the life of your vehicle and avoiding breakdowns. Yet, where is the best place to get your car serviced?
Often, car dealership maintenance departments give the impression of providing superior work. Also, car owners mistakenly believe dealerships must perform necessary maintenance to honor their warranty. However, many independent automotive shops provide equal or better servicing at a more competitive rate. Moreover, as long as your mechanic follows your manufacturer’s specifications for maintenance, your car’s warranty remains intact.
Typically, an automobile dealership has a variety of staff members including service managers and mechanics. When you have a problem, you talk to the service manager, not the mechanic working on your car. Generally, the dealership pays mechanics by the job, not hourly like independent auto shop mechanics. Thus, if car dealership mechanics talked to every customer, it would drastically impact their pay.
Ordinarily, auto shops have less staff giving you greater access to the mechanic working on your car. Consequently, you often experience more personalized service than at a car dealership. Moreover, with less staff, independent repair shops have less overhead translating into cheaper prices for you.
Frequently, dealerships employ factory-trained technicians educated on the specifics of your vehicle brand. Comparatively, many mechanics at independent automotive shops undergo a certification process through the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. Through hands-on experience and test requirements, technicians can receive ASE certification evidencing their knowledge.
When deciding between a dealership or an independent repair shop, check online reviews and ask family and friends for recommendations. No matter where you decide to bring your car for servicing, you can always try to negotiate the repair price.
Steps To Negotiate An Automotive Repair Price
Car Maintenance and repair can really make a dent in your budget. Often, customers just accept and grumble about the high cost. However, you can negotiate with your mechanic to try to lower the price:
1. Negotiate Before Work Begins
Once you agree to let the mechanic work on your car, you have a verbal agreement. A failure to pay can result in the shop refusing to return your vehicle until you pay your bill.
2. Shop Around
In NC, auto repair shops must give you a written estimate for work over $350. Get several quotes to gauge the fairness of the estimate and provide leverage for negotiations.
3. Gather Your Facts
Although some auto shops may try to overcharge, often, car owners just don’t realize the expense of repairs. Before heading to your mechanic, do some research. Repair Pal has a troubleshooting guide to help you identify the problem. Make a list of possible causes and the expected labor time to discuss your repair knowledgeably.
4. Become A Regular At The Repair Shop
When you frequent an auto shop, you build a relationship with the mechanic. Sometimes, technicians can be more flexible with a valued client. Furthermore, some shops offer a reward program allowing you to accumulate discounts.
5. Always Be Respectful And Polite
No one likes dealing with rude or obnoxious people. Additionally, harsh language can alienate and eliminate any chance of a deal. While politeness doesn’t guarantee a discount, it can strengthen your relationship and help in future negotiations.
Auto Mechanics Near Me – FAQs
Do an online search and you’ll find plenty of auto mechanics near me. How do you choose the right one for you? For over 25 years, Xpress Lube has been helping residents maintain their vehicles. Many of our customers have been using us for years. Below, we answer a few commonly asked questions.
Do You Offer Discounts?
Our loyalty program gives you the opportunity to earn cash discounts. You can earn 1 point for every dollar you spend at our facility. Then, you can redeem your points to lower your bill. Signing up is free and easy.
What Automotive Services Do You Offer?
We are a full-service auto shop with a staff of 4 ASE-certified mechanics and 5 technicians with NC inspection certifications. Our team can perform many repair and servicing tasks on both foreign and domestic cars, trucks, and SUVs:
What Do Customers Say About Havoline Xpress Lube Of Kernersville?
Of course, we could talk all day about our great service. Ultimately, our customers say it best:
I’ve had excellent service. They’ll tell you the truth about your best options. – Jack Larkins
Mac and his crew are always striving for perfection! It’s ALWAYS a great experience every visit. – Willie Falzone
I go here all the time to have my car serviced. The service is quick and convenient and everyone is friendly and helpful! A great place with excellent people! – Brenda Creech
Are you still looking for a trusted auto repair shop to help you maintain your vehicle? When searching for auto mechanics near me, trust Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville. Call us at 336-993-7697 or use our online form to make an appointment.
