San Carlos Auto Repair

The Independent Auto Repair Shop vs. the DealershipWhat's the different? Why the extra cost? Do I really need to bring my car to the dealership?  We get a lot of questions about servicing a car. A question that we get most often is: "Do I have to take my car to the nearest dealer for service and repair?" We’ve all asked ourselves that question at one time or another. Of course, any new car dealer would like to have your service business, but there are a lot of reasons to turn to the automotive aftermarket (or independent repair shop) for routine maintenance services as well as repairs. First, let’s get some terms straight. New car dealers and manufacturers are referred to as Original Equipment Manufacture  – or OEM providers. Everybody else is in the Automotive Aftermarket (or Independent Auto Repair). That includes auto parts stores, quic ... read more

Do I need to take my new car to the dealer for service? If you bought a new vehicle, you might think that you have to take it to dealer for service, that isn't true.  Many dealers and manufacturers suggest that you need to get your maintenance services at a dealership in order to keep your warranty. That simply isn’t true. You can have your vehicle serviced at your trusted, local service center without affecting your warranty. A federal law, called the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, prohibits a manufacturer from voiding your warranty just because you got parts or services from a non-dealer. In fact, a manufacturer can’t require you to use their brand of oil filters, lubricant, or any other part in order to maintain your warranty protection. This protection is true for aftermarket extended warranties purchased on new or used vehicles. This protection also applies to leased vehicles. There are similar laws in Canada as well. If a manufacturer can pro ... read more