Pretty basic question, but I drive a import/German car that’s now out of warranty. No major issues, but some recent front end noise/creak when turning at low speed/parking and also want to get the belts etc checked. 60,000km on the car.
The dealer is close but always seems to be the highest price if I go by past oil changes and shaken. Also nearby I have a German car focused maintenance shop and also an autobacs.
Any feedback or reason not to use a non-dealer when the car is out of warranty? Any impact on resale value etc.?
3 comments
Zero issue going to a 3rd party. Should be pretty easy to diagnose the issue, probably CV, wheel bearing or suspension strut tops.
That said the pricing between the dealers and large 3rd party chains seems negligible. I’d go for a smaller mechanic and go specialises in German cars. I see three on my way into Tokyo every time I drive in from Saitama.
Back when I used to have a German car I went to a local German specialist in Edogawa all the time. Good service and nice people. Cheaper than the dealer too
I have an Audi .. and take it to my local mechanic.. not sure if Autobacs can repair something like that .. but like you want to avoid taking it to a dealer (. oil change was like 30,000 yen)