In an era of rampant inflation and high interest rates, the challenges of purchasing a passenger car or SUV have been well documented. That’s why protecting this high-priced investment by maintaining it has never been more critical.
In recent months, Autoblog shared Consumer Reports‘ rating of the cheapest and most high-priced car brands that are worth keeping, as well as tips on how to extend the life of your car. Especially since the pandemic, many factors have impacted these costs: more convoluted vehicles, fresh materials and production methods, shortages of skilled technicians and spare parts. Starting in 2022, repair costs jump by about 10 percent each year.
This month, Consumer Reports offers a useful primer about keeping your vehicle in tip-top shape and suggestions on what your best options for finding a repair shop might be, depending, as CR says, “on your car and your situation.”
Author Ben Preston distinguishes three basic types of repair facilities: dealer service departments, independent repair shops and chain repair shops. It’s critical to build trust in a particular store and feel comfortable when you go there. Preston quotes John Ibbotson, chief mechanic at Consumer Reports Auto Test Center: “You may be able to save a few bucks by going to the store that offers the cheapest prices, but if you want consistent, reliable service, it’s best to find a repair shop you trust, and keep get it,” says Ibbotson.
The story continues to evaluate each type of service facility. Here is a summary of CR’s findings:
Dealers
These work well for owners of newer cars, especially for warranty work covered under warranty. However, the disadvantage is the high labor rates typical of dealer services. Dealer service department satisfaction ratings range from very good (Acura, Lexus, Mazda and Volvo) to not very good (Jeep and Kia).
Dealers are best for:
Fixing infotainment system faults: “If the screen in the middle of the dash has a habit of freezing up or the touchscreen-activated climate control isn’t working, you’ll likely find someone at the dealership with the knowledge to troubleshoot problems that perhaps only a factory-authorized technician can access,” says Ibbotson.
Recalibrate your security system: “Anything from a crack in the windshield to a diminutive dent in the fender can disrupt the calibration of sensors that enable features such as automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control,” says Ibbotson. Many independent repair shops are not equipped to recalibrate sensors to accurately calculate the car’s position in relation to other cars and road hazards. Price: $300-600.
Software updates: Current cars are essentially computers on wheels, with computer modules controlling everything from the power windows to the engine and transmission. “A software failure can cause a number of problems – such as a poorly shifting gearbox or exterior lights that won’t illuminate – and may require troubleshooting at the dealer, who should have technicians trained on these specific issues,” says Ibbotson . Newer cars may be able to receive software updates over the air, but older cars will need to see a technician if a problem occurs. Price: $150-200 (and more for luxury brands).
Not so good for:
Save money on service and repairs that can be done at a qualified, independent repair shop at a lower cost.
Independent repair shops
According to CR’s survey of repair shops, independent repair shops received excellent ratings for integrity, quality of work, turnaround time and communication. They also received very good ratings for the price and resolution of the problem on the first visit.
Independents are best for:
Basic Maintenance: Oil change, fluid level check, tire pressure check. Says Ibbotson: “Any experienced technician will do. Performing these procedures gives a regular independent technician the opportunity to check the overall condition of the car.” Price: $131-$145 (oil change).
Suspension shock absorber/strut: Worn shock absorbers, struts and other suspension parts can cause unsafe braking and handling. Replacing them is usually quite uncomplicated and can be performed by any competent mechanic. Price: $924-$1,043.
General engine repair: Labor-intensive work such as replacing a timing belt or installing a fresh transmission can usually be done well by an independent repair shop. Price: $1,915-$2,220 (head gasket replacement).
The water pump: This is an necessary part of your car’s cooling system (even in electric vehicles) and will eventually wear out and need to be replaced. “Independents can replace him if they need to,” Ibbotson says. Price: $732-$866.
Independents aren’t great at:
Reminder fixes: These are best dealt with by dealers who are informed about the necessary work directly by the car manufacturers.
Chain repair workshops
“Chain repair shops can be a great place to get basic services like tire installation and wheel alignment at a reasonable price,” says Ibbotson.
Chains are best suited for:
Tires: Tire replacements are sometimes cheaper at the tire repair network. However, be careful with repair recommendations when it comes to other car parts. Plus, “don’t feel like you have to buy whatever tires they have on the shelf,” says Ryan Pszczółkowski, tire program manager at CR. “First determine what type of tires you need, then ask the store to order them. Most will.” Price: $169-$240 (per tire).
Alignment: When buying tires (or replacing suspension parts), you need to tune your car. Price: $138-174.
Chains are not very good for:
More complicated repairs.
