Local mechanics, dealership service both have advantages

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Photo credit: Bankrate.com


It’s a common quandary among car owners — do I take my car to the dealership for service or should I bring it to a local mechanic?
If you have a newer car, you may still be covered by the dealer warranty, making it an a easy choice. Otherwise, what are the advantages of going to a dealership versus a neighborhood mechanic?
One reason to use a dealership is the expertise you’ll find. Dealership mechanics are specifically trained on your vehicle. They also participate in ongoing training, according to an Edmunds.com article. However, this training can often result in higher prices for the consumer. Dealership service departments will use parts made specifically for your vehicle.

Photo credit: San Tan Times


That’s not to say that you won’t find a highly trained mechanic and manufacturer parts at your local auto repair shop. Many mechanics are trained and certified by specific manufacturers and by ASE (Automotive Service Excellence). You’re also more likely to build a long-term relationship with your neighborhood mechanic.
A dealership is more likely to offer a shuttle back to your office or home if you need to leave your car, and may be able to provide a loaner car if the work will take more than one day. A local mechanic might not have the manpower to offer these services.
Manufacturer recalls are more easily managed from a dealer service department. The department will usually check for recalls for your specific vehicle whenever you bring it in. According to the Edmunds.com article, local garages often do have access to recall information too. However, you’ll usually need to pay more for this service because your vehicle’s warranty is not valid at an individual garage.
If you choose a dealership service department for your car, you’ll find a full range of options at your local Earnhardt Auto Centers dealership. Visit your local dealership online or in person to learn more about the available service options at Earnhardt. You’ll find the same “No Bull” approach you’ve come to expect from the Earnhardt family!
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Photo credit: San Tan Times
Photo credit: Bankrate.com

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Carolyn Sostrom

Carolyn Sostrom is a long-time Arizona resident who loves desert sunsets, warm weather, Zumba, and the Western lifestyle. She attended Saguaro High School in Scottsdale and then Arizona State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in journalism. Similarly to the protagonist in *The Devil Wears Prada*, Carolyn moved to New York City right after college. She started working for the fashion magazine company Conde Nast but never transitioned to the dark side. After a few years, she left New York in the rearview mirror and returned to her home state, taking a reporter job at the *Apache Junction Independent*. With over 30 years of freelance writing experience, Carolyn especially enjoys writing about community events and profiling individuals who are making a difference in their communities. She had the pleasure of interviewing a variety of cowboy personalities for an article she wrote for the *Scottsdale Independent* about the history of DC Ranch and its roots as a working ranch. Now, her Western adventures with CLN have her diving into the rugged automotive scene, exploring the trucks and rigs cowboys rely on for work, home, and play, a niche where grit meets horsepower. She works at Raising Special Kids, a nonprofit resource center for families of children with disabilities and special healthcare needs. Carolyn also volunteers with the Autism Society of Greater Phoenix. Carolyn believes that everyone has a story, and she loves connecting with others to hear their stories. She’s dedicated to ethical journalism and accurate reporting, which shines through in her storytelling.

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