I have a 2001 Saturn SL2. I need to have my radiator hoses and serpentine belt changed. The dealership quoted me $360, and my mom's usual car shop (she also has a Saturn) quoted me $240. Where should I go??? Should it be a concern that the car shop doesn't specialize in Saturns specifically?
2006-11-15 03:59:35 · 6 answers · asked by Madonna U 1 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
In my opinion, dealer service is unnecessary unless it is a warranty issue and the cost will be covered. As a do-it-yourself person, I do not go to shops unless I have to for inspections or tires, etc. $240 seems a bit high for just hoses and belts. But, the bottom line is trust. If you trust in the mechanic's skills and business ethics, then by all means go to that mechanic. Otherwise, it never hurts to shop around, and sometimes word of mouth gets you the best recommendation. If the repairs are not crucial right now, see what some other shops in town are charging for the same services. And don't be afraid to ask the mechanic questions beforehand, letting you know exactly what is going to be done to your vehicle and why. Shops are like restaurants - if they won't let you see their kitchen, don't eat what they're cookin', get what I mean? Good luck!!
2006-11-15 04:45:46 · answer #1 · answered by My Dog Rowdy 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
well i am really torn here. Because I do not like dealerships but at the same time price is not always a good thing to go by. The old saying you get what you pay for. I would take it to one more place and get an estimate. If they are closer to mom's shop then go to mom's shop. If they are closer to the dealer maybe mom's shop is not the best place to go.
2006-11-15 21:35:55 · answer #2 · answered by rwings8215 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Do you trust your mother? Has this independent shop mistreated you mother? Would you like to save $120? I could quote studies that have been done on independent's vs dealer's but for the quick answer, go to a good independent repair facility with ASE certified technicians and feel comfortable. ASE is a stringent, voluntary testing that an auto repairman puts himself through to prove he is at the top of his field every 4 years. There's bad doctors and lawyers and garbage collectors. Trust your family!
2006-11-15 12:54:38 · answer #3 · answered by Colonel Ingus11 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Simple stuff like that is ok to have done at your moms shop. They probably have a lower hourly rate than the dealer. If you had some other type of repairs need say engine work or an electrical grimlin then take to someone that knows that modle of car.
2006-11-15 12:47:35 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Just ask the mom's shop that does they forseee any other expenses. Many a time, they hide it during initial quotations. Also, get copnfirmation why they are charging less. Are they planning to repair with an old or second grade parts.
Still if it is trusted one since long time, you can go for it.
2006-11-15 12:05:53 · answer #5 · answered by golgolbaat 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
if i was you go to the independent car shop
you just pay more for the name of the dealership
2006-11-15 13:04:12 · answer #6 · answered by davedebo198305 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋