If your vehicle isn’t running properly, it’s time to visit a mechanic. When it comes to finding one, you’ll often find that you have many options. You might be tempted to turn to a dealer’s auto shop or a large auto repair company chain. However, you’ll often find that you get better service and cheaper prices at independent auto repair shops. Keep reading to learn a few reasons why it's smart to turn to smaller, family-owned shops.

Dealerships Can Be Expensive

Dealerships tend to charge substantially more than an independent auto repair company because dealers have higher overhead costs. There are exceptions, though. If your car is under warranty at a dealership, for example, it might be cheaper to repair it at the dealer. Outside of warranties, however, you may save a lot by going to an independent mechanic.

Faster Turn Around Time

When talking with mechanics, it’s smart to ask for a timeline and when you can expect your car to get back on the road. You’ll frequently find that dealers and large auto repair chains will need more time to fix your car. Why? Among other things, these larger businesses often have a longer backlog. More bureaucracy may also slow things down.

Independent Mechanics May Be More Skilled

The best mechanics often recognize their skills and decide to go independent, knowing that their high level of knowledge and work ethic will give them key advantages in the market. Independent mechanic shops operate in intensely competitive markets, and the best mechanics will thrive while lesser operations often get pushed out of business. For customers, this is good news, as competitive markets tend to deliver lower prices and better service.

Honest and Reliable Service

To compete in a competitive market, mechanics will need to provide honest and reliable service. While a large dealership may be able to shrug off poor reviews and bad word of mouth, smaller independent shops often won’t have that luxury. As such, many drivers go out of their way to offer service that goes above and beyond.

Given all the above, it should come as no surprise that according to MarketSource, an online business resource, three-quarters of aftermarket vehicle repairs are performed by independent auto repair shops. Quite simply, these shops are in a better position to deliver top-notch service at reasonable prices. Looking for an independent auto repair company you can lean on through thick and thin? Get in contact with Carbondale Car Care Inc today and get started with a free tire and brake inspection!