When you purchase a automobile, you should also be thinking about how you'll go about service and repair. First off, following the manufacturer's service schedule is vitally important. Those guidelines are established to be sure that important components are checked at the right times, so that your car is running smoothly and safely. If one item is wearing improperly, it can start a chain reaction of wear on other parts that can lead to a breakdown.
A reputable dealer knows that it's the service after the sale that customers truly appreciate and respect. If there is to be repeat business, it is earned through the work of the service department. That is why a dealer invests heavily in hiring technicians who have the highest level of training, and the very best tools and diagnostic equipment to handle the job.
At Patriot Subaru in Saco, ME and North Attleboro, MA all technicians are ASE Certified, short for the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. In addition, technicians have earned additional levels of certification from Subaru, with many earning the highest level of Master Technician. If there is a problem, they'll find it and fix it correctly, assuring your safety and satisfaction.
Today's vehicles are loaded with computer technology, and they require the diagnostic equipment to handle it. Some of the gear can cost over $100k. Dealers are required to make this investment to maintain their status as an authorized dealer. In fact, the gear is linked directly to factory service experts who can monitor all the activity, and use that data to understand potential issues with the fleet.
Dealers are also required to carry genuine OEM, aka Original Equipment Manufactured parts to service their vehicles. This assures that the repairs can not only be done promptly, but the parts will be correct and compatible with the vehicle. For example, a Subaru dealer would carry genuine Subaru OEM parts and accessories, and use them when making any repair to ensure quality.
All to often, a dealer will see a car come in that has been serviced by an area garage that has misdiagnosed, used an inferior after-market part, or utilized incorrect fluids or oils in the engine. The result is even greater damage, which jeopardizes or in some cases invalidates the manufacturers warranty. Now the repair has to be done again, and usually at at even greater expense. This places the dealer in an uncomfortable position, as the customer thinks that they're being taken advantage of, but that is not the case. If the owner had taken the car to the dealer in the first place, the work would have been done under warranty, and if there was an issue after the fact, the dealer would be responsible.
Convenience is also a consideration. Many dealers offer shuttle services so you can drop your car off and get a ride to work and back. Some stores will have loaner cars available if your car needs to stay overnight for longer repairs. Most dealers will have extra comforts and amenities in the waiting area, such as desks with computer terminals, Wi-Fi, quiet rooms, children's play areas. At our Subaru store in Saco, Maine, we have bikes that customers can use on a trail behind the store, as well as a vegetable garden that some customers enjoy working in while they wait.
So, the best approach to efficiently and properly maintaining your vehicle is to utilize the resources available right at your dealer. The prices are always competitive, and most important, you know it will be done right. If there is ever an issue or concern, you know you can take your concerns right to management who oversees the dealership, and is just as committed as you are to see you are happy with your experience.
- Service Bays at Patriot Subaru, North Attleboro, MA
