How to Save Money on Auto Repairs
If you watch television, the topic of how to save money on car repairs probably makes you think of race car driver Danica Patrick and automotive warranties. Those warranties aren’t the only way to save money on auto repairs, though. Where and when you have your vehicle repaired impacts the cost, and so do any discounts for which you qualify.
Find a Mechanic You Can Trust
When you find a mechanic you can trust, you solve most of your problems with car repair savings. That’s because once you establish a working relationship with a mechanic or garage, they tend to offer you better deals. It doesn’t matter whether you choose an independent auto repair shop, which accounts for about 75% of auto repairs, or a dealership service center, which makes the other 25% of repairs.
During the first year to three years of vehicle ownership, it makes more sense to take the vehicle to the dealership. Most automakers provide a maintenance package that covers all the manufacturer-recommended maintenance as long as you take the vehicle to a dealership. Once you establish this relationship with a dealership service center, it makes sense to continue it for repairs.
Shop Around for Parts
According to Zippia, 923,000 Americans work in motor vehicles and parts manufacturing. Those parts fall into two categories – original manufacturer equipment (OEM) and aftermarket parts. Check the vehicle maintenance package that came with your vehicle to determine if it covers the part your car needs. If so, take it to the dealership for free servicing, OEM parts included.
Let’s say your car no longer receives that coverage because you’ve owned it for five years. Shop around for the part you need, considering OEM and aftermarket parts. For older vehicles, check salvage yards, pull-apart businesses, and other used parts sources.
Compare Service Prices
Extend that shopping around to service providers, too. A general mechanic doesn’t typically perform specialty work, such as windshield glass replacement or dent removal. When you need this type of work done on your vehicle, shop around for the best mix of price and quality of work.
Most areas of the U.S. offer a few options for each type of service provider. For example, according to IBISWorld, the U.S. houses 11,004 auto glass repair and replacement businesses. Savvy shopping can net you a great price, especially if you find a service provider running a special.
Clip Coupons
Before you laugh at the notion of clipping coupons for car repairs or auto parts, pick up a Yellow Pages phone book. They still exist, and a treasure trove of coupons comprises the back section of these paperback wonders. A hefty auto section typically reveals a few money-saving options for each typical car repair.
Register for the email newsletter from your dealership and your favorite local mechanic. These online epistles usually include monthly specials that can help you save money. Sources like Groupon can also offer significant savings when you need it most.
Saving Money on Auto Repairs
Combining these techniques can help you save tons of money when you need your vehicle repaired quickly and within your budget. Buying parts on your own and then providing them to the mechanic lets you leverage coupons, aftermarket parts, and specials to land the best deal.
Once you’ve established a relationship with a mechanic, approach them about a payment plan for large, costly jobs like transmission replacement or a new engine. Some independent garages offer zero percent financing, meaning they let you set up a payment plan that doesn’t cost you anything extra. It’s true that you can save money on car repairs without working as a race car driver.