Don’t Let the Dealer Fix Your 4-Wheeler

When it comes to buying a car, sure, the dealership is going to be a WAY better and far more reputable bet than going down to a used car lot. Go ahead, and buy your car from the dealer, but then remember these three words. Repeat them as many times as you need to:

 

Stop right there.

 

The dealership is going to try to convince you why it’s “imperative” that you take the new car to them for maintenance whenever the need arises, but the plain hard fact of the matter is, that’s not true. They’ll cost a lot more, likely will take longer, be less personable than your regular trusty mechanic, and most importantly, they won’t do a better job than anyone else.

 

Sure, there’s that stigma that trustworthy mechanics can be few and far between, but as we delve further into the age of computers—internet virality, Yelp reviews, Google Maps ratings, etc.—any private shop owner trying to run a successful business would be remiss not to emphasize honesty and customer service these days.

 

Here are a few reasons why you’re better off bringing your beloved bundle of steel down to a place like Big Oak Citgo:

 

Familiar Faces

Dealerships have enormously high turnover rates among their mechanics, so you won’t get a guy or girl there who really gets to know your car. Conversely, local shops seem to keep the same 4 or 5 employees around for years and years. Think of coming to a place like ours as like the barber for your car. Find one you like, and the more you stick with him, the better they get to know.

 

Price

This one is plain and simple. Dealerships are notoriously expensive. Expect to pay 20 percent more than what we’ll charge you, for identical parts and labor.

 

Breadth

Dealership mechanics know a lot about one kind of car. Local mechanics know a lot about many kinds of cars. Having an extensive wealth of knowledge when it comes to cars allows one to be a better overall mechanic, because he or she can be a better critical thinker. You know, like a become the car young grasshopper type of thing.

 

All in all, the dealership is going to be more expensive and less personable. Sounds like they have their priorities flipped upside down to us. Get in touch today to learn more about how Big Oak Citgo can help your car!