4 Ways that Local Independent Mechanics Can't Match the Dealership
There are many reasons to choose the dealership over a franchise place or an independent mechanic. In fact, we've written about some key reasons already! And, while the dealership offers the best environment for your Volkswagen, there are also advantages you may not think about as much. Try as they might, independent shops simply can't match what you'll find in the dealership. If you're wondering where to take your Volkswagen for service, here are four things you should know about independent mechanics first.
4. Creature Discomforts
Let's say you take your car in for a simple scheduled service like an oil change. It often makes sense to wait while your Volkswagen is being looked at--but the experience you have while waiting can vary drastically. We've seen some cramped waiting rooms where the chairs look like they've needed to be replaced for a decade, a small CRT television crackles away in the corner, and stale, lukewarm coffee is what passes for refreshments. Compare that to the customer lounge of a dealership like Archer Volkswagen. We have a spacious lounge with comfortable chairs and complimentary refreshments that are actually refreshing.
3. Getting Back Home Can Be a Hassle
As unpleasant as waiting around may be, getting back home during longer services might end up being even more difficult. At the dealership, we have shuttle services and even loaner vehicles available. You may not find that level of convenience at a local shop, which could leave you at the mercy of friends or family who may be able to give you rides.
2. "Let's See if I Can Pencil You In. . . ."
You have a busy schedule, so the last thing you need is to have to make changes in order to get something simple like car service performed. This is yet another area where local mechanics often don't have the same benefits as the dealership. For one thing, there are usually fewer technicians working at local places, which means that you might have to schedule relatively far in advance. What's more, many of these places aren't known for keeping convenient hours. Archer Volkswagen, by comparison, is open Monday through Saturday from 9 am until 9 pm.
1. A Good Local Mechanic Is Hard To Find
We'll be the first to admit it: there are some mechanics out there that are true experts. They're fast, perceptive, and quality-focused. But that's not always the case. In fact, there are also many independent mechanics who care more about making a quick buck than they do about making sure your Volkswagen is working at its best. Finding a good local mechanic can be a matter of trial and error. When it's your car that's at stake, trial and error isn't exactly what you should be hoping for! The dealership, on the other hand, is staffed by technicians who have been certified by the factory.
