If you have a luxury car, you know that you need qualified technicians
to handle your repairs. Several establishments exist that claim
expertise in European auto repair, but there are a certain set of
criteria that will lead you to the best place for your vehicle.
Considering your warranty, looking for technicians with various
certifications, and researching credentials and estimates can help you
choose the business that best suits your and your car’s needs.
Although the dealership may not be your preferred go to place for
European auto repair on your luxury vehicle, you really need to be in
tune with the limitations of your warranty before you forgo the option.
If you receive oil changed, tune ups, tires, etc. as a part of your
warranty, you could void these amenities by partaking in service from a
non-dealer affiliated establishment. The choice is yours to make, and,
for each individual, the choice is different. You may be willing to lose
the perks from the dealer in order to obtain a less expensive job.
Regardless of your choice of shop, there are certain criteria that will
flag technicians with qualifications. Of course, you want to know that
the place you are investigating does indeed provide service for European
automobiles, but toting the title alone is not the only criteria to
measure. Look for technicians and establishments that belong to the
Automotive Service Association (ASA). This is a membership that requires
that its members adhere to a code of ethics in both repair and customer
service. Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) adherence is also
affiliates exclusively with establishments that meet a set of service
criteria, and, as a European car owner, you will want to know that your
prospective mechanic is BOSCH Auto-Technology fluent and certified. This
is an electronic diagnostic system, and your mechanic need not only
know how to use it and apply its finding, but he should also be a part
of an on-going training program that allows him to keep abreast of
current diagnostic technology.
If you are able to find these things a two or three nearby businesses,
you are left with company reputation and estimates on which to base your
decision. Most dealers will adhere to estimates, perhaps because they
work with a certain pool of providers; however, since most parts are not
kept on sight, ordering and shipping, as well as time waiting, may
factor into the cost while a private establishments specializing in
European auto repair may keep commonly needed parts in stock. For some, a
shorter wait outweighs even a lower cost. For others, a lower cost is
worth the wait. Whatever the choice, run the chosen European auto repair
business through a Better Business Bureau check for a rating before
agreeing to service.
