Whether your car is brand new or just new-to-you, youll need to keep up with routine maintenance.
With a service plan, youll only be able to redeem the free maintenance at a dealers service center.
Do You Have a Warranty?
Most repairs to a new or certified pre-owned vehicle are covered by the manufacturers warranty.
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Your warranty also allows you to visit any dealership franchise that sells your brand of car.
If you bought a certified pre-owned vehicle from a dealership, chances are it came with a limited warranty.
Any warranty work should be performed by the dealer toavoid out-of-pocket fees.
Do You Want a Certified Technician?
Dealerships employ technicians that are certified by the manufacturer.
These certifications need to be kept up-to-date if the dealer wants to continue servicing its branded vehicles.
Call around to check prices to see which will offer you the best deal.
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What Are the Costs?
Of course, a huge part of choosing where to service your car is the cost.
While its important to consider costs, its also vital that you cantrust your chosen mechanic.
Subpar work could put your life at risk on the road.
Luckily, there are plenty of trustworthy mechanics.
You just need to know where to find them.
Ask friends for recommendations on local garages and shop around to find a good price.
Are Dealers More Expensive?
The answer to this question really depends on where you live and what service you need.
However, for other services, you might be better off avoiding the dealer.
For example, I recently had a trailer hitch installed on my Subaru Outback.
My local Subaru dealer wanted $560 for parts and labor before tax.
I called around and ended up having the hitch installed at U-Haul for $235 plus tax.
On the flip side, used car owners might get a better deal at independent garages or national chains.
Catherine Hiles has been writing about the automotive industry for six years.
In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, running and watching Disney movies with her three-year-old daughter.
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