Now more than ever, the importance of supporting our local economies is a value many people share. From ordering a cuppa at the local coffee joint to shopping for fresh produce at the farmer’s market, using our purchasing power for local goods and services is the neighborly thing to do. But beyond being a good neighbor, how else does going local benefit you as a car owner?
Affordability
Dealerships typically have revenue goals they must meet—and their mechanics are encouraged to hustle for bonuses to ensure those target numbers are met. There are no such revenue goals at independent repair shops. Auto dealerships often have set hourly prices as well, so whether your service meets the set minimum time or not, you’ll be charged the same (high) set price. On the other hand, local car repair shops are typically more flexible and fair in their approach. Independent repair shops set their own prices, of course including repair and parts, and their pricing is informed by the local economy instead of fixed corporate rates. In fact, to ensure we are properly diagnosing your vehicle, we don't give auto repair quotes over the phone. When giving a quote, it is best when a mechanic looks under your car's hood.
Local shops find other ways to save their loyal customers a few bucks, too, such as offering a variety of parts at different price points, including rebuilt or aftermarket parts. And contrary to popular belief, independent auto repairs do not void your warranty. So, anything not already covered by your warranty can be safely—and often more affordably—covered by your local mechanic. Many local mechanics already put in their time at corporate dealerships and understand the high churn rate at dealership shops. Tired of pumping out high-volume repairs with a little personal touch, local experts have the experience it takes to care for your car - while also caring about building customer relationships.
Convenience
Part of the personal touch that local car repair shops bring includes the convenience of direct communication. At an independent repair shop, you won’t have to work through layers of middlemen to find an answer: you can talk directly to your mechanic to understand the how and why behind the services they perform on your vehicle. And if there’s a simple at-home fix, you can usually count on a local mechanic to be upfront about what they suggest. Your local car repair specialists are highly motivated to empower you as the car owner because their good reputation depends on your satisfaction. If you establish a relationship with a local car repair shop, you will know the convenience of working with someone who knows you by name, your car by every intimate detail, and is willing and able to meet you where you’re at.
Trust
When it all boils down, the affordability and convenience of choosing to go with a local car repair shop would mean very little without trust. This is where we stress it time and again: do your research, ask around, and make sure you go with a mechanic who comes well vouched for. One of the benefits of choosing an independent repair shop is their local reputation. Without major corporate spending on marketing and advertising, word of mouth and firsthand experience is what counts when it comes to going local . Chances are, if your local car mechanic has a great reputation, they’ve worked very hard to earn it and will continue to do so with you.
