As dealerships close around the country, the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA) says now is the time to make sure your customers know that they still can get their vehicles serviced by bringing them to the independent aftermarket.
To help address this fact with consumers, there are facts you can relate. One fact is that there are more than 130,000 independent repair shops nationwide that have access to the parts for all vehicles, as well as the required professional technicians, tools and equipment.
Independent repair businesses account for more than 70 percent of vehicle service and repair, compared to 28 percent of non-warranty repairs by new car dealerships. Even before the rash of dealership closings, the number of dealerships and their share of the service and repair market have gradually declined each year since 2000, according to AAIA.
“There is a lot of confusion and anxiety among consumers these days about seeking quality service and repair for their vehicle,” says Kathleen Schmatz, AAIA president and CEO. “Vehicle owners need to look no further than their own community to find a reputable repair shop to care for their vehicle and protect the warranty.”
In its work with the driving public, the Car Care Council reported recently that “it’s a myth that only new car dealers can service vehicles under warranty.” You can take that information and talk to your customers by telling them about the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act.
You also could cite consumer publications, AAIA reports, such as an April report in which Consumer Reports states, “Legally, you can have maintenance performed by any mechanic without affecting your warranty. Just keep thorough records in case of a warranty claim. The only services that need to be performed at a dealership are warranty repairs, recalls or post-warranty work that you want the manufacturer to pay for.”
