by Aimee Coulter

Created on: November 06, 2008   Last Updated: November 16, 2008

Vehicle maintenance and repair is an important part of car ownership but one that can leave you feeling somewhat confused. The time, expense and inconvenience associated with car repair can quickly add up to frustration. Evaluating a few simple factors prior to taking your car to the corner garage or dealership will help you to avoid any unnecessary tension.

What type of work needs to be done?

Light maintenance, such as routine oil changes and tire rotation, are typically less expensive with a shorter waiting time when performed at a corner garage. Low overhead costs and the smaller customer base associated with a corner garage make it possible to offer lower prices and quick turn-around on these types of services.

When needing heavy mechanical work, for instance internal motor or transmission service, a dealership provides a less expensive price and quicker turn-around than a corner garage. They typically have the equipment for these services in place and mechanics trained to specific auto manufacturer standards.

According to J. Coulter at Bob Moore Collision in Edmond, Oklahoma, a dealership offers the best quality and integrity for auto body repair. Unlike the corner garages, dealerships do not use aftermarket parts unless it is at the customer's request. Their equipment is kept up to date with the latest advances and technology.

What do I drive while my car is being worked on?

Depending on the services being done, this may or may not be an issue. With oil changes usually taking 20 minutes to an hour, as a customer you can usually wait it out. However, the corner garage may need the afternoon to free up a bay. Are they willing to take you back to your place of work and pick you up when the car is completed? Many are, so don't hesitate to ask.

The issue of transportation is more important when considering heavy mechanical or body repair work. These types of services can take from 3 to fourteen days. Many large dealerships offer the use of a loaner car for customers who are having their car repaired. Keeping in mind that an estimated three day completion date can quickly turn into three weeks, the offer of alternate transportation can be a major factor in selecting a garage.

What level of communication do I need?

Because the mechanic at the corner garage often is also the owner and works the front desk as well, you are more able to develop a personal relationship with him. Over time, this can make scheduling work and priority service possible.

As dealerships utilize receptionists, service writers and estimators at the front end of the process, rarely will you speak with the mechanic or technician working on your automobile. This unique arrangement puts you in contact with employees specifically trained to talk to you about scheduling, pricing and delivery times.

How detailed do you want your records to be?

CARFAX is a tool utilized by a growing number of consumers when purchasing a used car. Dealerships are required by law to input service and repair records on the cars they process. This means that you, the car owner, no longer have to panic when the file containing your paper copy of oil changes is lost. Any potential buyer will be able to access the information through CARFAX.

Should you be trying to avoid those two or three fender benders or the motor your teenaged son burnt up, a corner garage is not as likely to input this data into the CARFAX system. Any disclosure and resulting liability would be left up to you as the seller.

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