In times of rampant inflation and high interest rates, the challenges of purchasing a car or SUV are well documented. That’s why it’s never been more important to protect this expensive investment through maintenance.
In the last few months, Autoblog shared Consumer Reports’ Review of the cheapest and most expensive car brands to keep running, as well as tips for extending the life of a car. Several factors are impacting these costs, especially since the pandemic: more complex vehicles, new materials and manufacturing methods, a lack of qualified technicians and spare parts. Since 2022, repair costs have increased by about 10 percent every year.
This month, Consumer Reports offers a useful guide to keeping your vehicle in good condition and suggests the best options for finding a repair shop, depending, as CR says, “on your car and your situation.”
Author Ben Preston identifies three basic types of repair facilities: dealer service departments, independent repair shops, and chain repair shops. It is important to build trust in a particular store and feel comfortable there. Preston quotes John Ibbotson, chief mechanic at Consumer Reports’ Auto Test Center: “You may be able to save a few dollars by going to the shop that offers the cheapest prices, but if you want consistent, reliable service, it’s best.” “To order a repair. “Shop with someone you trust and stick with it,” says Ibbotson.
Each type of service facility is then evaluated. Here’s a breakdown of CR’s results:
Dealer
These are good for owners of newer cars, especially for covered warranty work. The downside, however, is the high labor costs that are common in dealer service. Satisfaction ratings for dealer service departments range from very good (Acura, Lexus, Mazda and Volvo) to not so good (Jeep and Kia).
Traders are best for:
Troubleshooting infotainment system malfunctions: “If the screen in the center of your dashboard has a habit of freezing or your touchscreen-activated air conditioning isn’t working, the dealer is the most likely place to find someone who has the know-how to troubleshoot problems that may just “A factory authorized technician can access it,” says Ibbotson.
Recalibration of the security system: “Anything from a crack in the windshield to a small dent in the fender can disrupt the calibration of the sensors that make features like automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control work,” says Ibbotson. Many independent repair shops are unable to recalibrate the sensors so that they can accurately calculate the vehicle’s position in relation to other vehicles and traffic obstacles. Price: $300-$600.
Software updates: Modern cars are essentially rolling computers, with computer modules controlling everything from power windows to engine and transmission operation. “A software malfunction can cause a number of problems – for example, a transmission that shifts poorly or exterior lights that don’t come on – and may need to be addressed at the dealer, who should have technicians trained on these specific problems,” says Ibbotson. Newer cars may be able to receive software updates over the air, but older cars will need to speak to a technician in person if problems arise. Price: $150-$200 (and up for luxury brands).
Not so great for:
Save money on service and repairs that could be carried out more cost-effectively at a qualified, independent workshop.
Independent repair shops
According to CR’s Shop Survey, independent shops received excellent ratings for honesty, quality of work, time to complete repair and communication. They also received very high marks for the price and solving the problem on the first visit.
Independents are best for:
Basic maintenance: Oil change, fluid level check, tire pressure check. Ibbotson says: “Any experienced technician will do. Performing these procedures provides a good opportunity for your regular independent technician to check the general condition of your car.” Price: $131-$145 (oil change).
Suspension strut/shock absorber: Worn struts, shock absorbers and other suspension parts can lead to unsafe braking and handling. The replacement is usually quite straightforward and can be carried out by any competent mechanic. Price: $924-$1,043.
Major engine repair: Labor-intensive work such as changing the timing belt or installing a new gearbox can usually be easily carried out by an independent repair shop. Price: $1,915 to $2,220 (head gasket replacement).
Water pump: This is an essential part of your car’s cooling system (even electric vehicles) and will wear out over time and need to be replaced. “Independents can replace it if necessary,” says Ibbotson. Price: $732-$866.
Independents are not great for:
Callback corrections: These are best done by dealers who are informed directly by the car manufacturers of the work required.
Chain repair workshops
“Chain repair shops can be a great place to get basic services like tire fitting and wheel alignment at a reasonable price,” says Ibbotson.
Chains are best for:
Tires: With a tire repair chain, changing tires is sometimes cheaper. However, be careful about repair recommendations for other car parts. “Also, don’t feel pressured to buy whatever tires the store has on the shelf,” says Ryan Pszczolkowski, CR’s tire program manager. “First, determine the type of tire you need and then ask the workshop to order them. Most will.” Price: $169-$240 (per tire).
Orientation: You should have the car aligned when purchasing tires (or replacing suspension parts). Price: $138-$174.
Chains are not so good for:
More complicated repairs.