Should I take my 1 yr old Toyota Matrix to the dealership or a "regular" garage for my safety inspection?

Question

I live in Nova Scotia Canada. My main concern is being ripped off. I took my previous car to a dealership and they wanted about 200 dollars worth of repairs done before it would be pass inspection. I said forget it and left and took it to a local garage and they passed it. What are the chances this new dealership will do the same thing?

Answer 1

Matrix and Pontiac Vibe are made In the Fremont California Plant GM Toyota. General Inspection sticker issues general repair shop can handle. However if there was a warranty issue where would you go for repair? Of course you would hop right over to the Toyota Dealership. Should you have a warranty concern just after tha warranty expires Toyota could good will the repair if you were a loyal customer of the Toyota dealership. SO the kinfe cuts both ways Pay more at the dealership? or get Walmart mechanics do all the oil changes and really don't care about having the latest soft wear in your cars computers? Dealership mechanics can do a better job because they work on those cars everyday. $200 is just a tire rotate and air filter with an oil change. You have to pay to play!

Answer 2

A 1 year old car needing $200 worth of repairs that aren't tires or covered under warranty? Rather unlikely unless you are racking up the miles quickly.

Look for a AAA approved facility that offers a nation wide warranty at no charge. Also ask about certifications, like ASE testing and if their mechanics have it. A clean shop with a nice waiting room, prompt service and a service advisor who treats you well and is willing to explain what and why work is needed are also good signs.

I use a AAA approved Goodyear Gemini dealer in the States, everything done is warrantied for at least 1 year/12.000 miles coast to coast, as an example.

Dealships are designed to make as much money as possible, huge retailers like Wal-Mart offer auto service only as a side gig and don't hire the most qualified people to trust your car to. A dedicated repair shop can give you trusted service without the huge dealer costs.

Answer 3

Stock parts are more expensive even if advisable for engine parts. Take it to a consumer not a sales team.

Answer 4

Go to Toyota they know what they sell and will give you a honest checkup not one fancied up.

Answer 5

TRY FINDING AN INDEPENDENT AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR SHOP INSTEAD OF THE DEALER OR ANY CHAIN STORE BECAUSE YOU WILL BE OVERALL MORE PLEASED WITH THE PERSONAL SERVICE THAT YOU WILL RECEIVE.

Answer 6

local garage is fine