What is more important: quality or price in auto repair?

Quick facts

  • Labor rate differences between shops often reflect technician certification levels and equipment quality
  • Aftermarket parts are not always inferior, but quality varies significantly by brand and part type
  • Warranty coverage on parts and labor varies widely. Always ask before approving work.
  • A repair that fails within months costs more in total than one done correctly the first time

The recession that hit our nation has changed how people save, invest and spend their money. We have all learned not to be quite so frivolous with our money and our continued and current economic situation has led more consumers to be fairly price conscious.  While price is important, it is also important not to sacrifice quality, especially when it comes to your more valuable assets like your vehicle and your home.

When it comes to Auto Repair, Service and Maintenance we have a few tips for good quality at a fair price.

The quality of a repair or diagnostic process is not always easy to see.  Finding and sticking with a repair facility that you can trust, and that will stand behind their work, with a proven track record and longevity, can give you assurance that any future concerns can be met.  Remember, you get what you pay for. Happy Motoring!

Frequently asked questions

Common questions

Are OEM parts worth the extra cost?

It depends on the part and the application. For safety-critical components like brake parts, sensors, and seals, OEM or quality aftermarket equivalents from known brands are worth the investment. For wear items on older vehicles, quality aftermarket parts often offer the same performance at lower cost. Ask your shop what brand they are using and whether it carries a warranty.

How do I evaluate whether a repair quote is fair?

Ask the shop to break out parts and labor separately. Check the labor time against industry standard guides (most shops use Mitchell or Alldata). Ask whether parts carry a warranty and for how long. A fair shop will answer all of these questions clearly. Be wary of quotes that are dramatically lower than others. The gap is usually explained by part quality, labor shortcuts, or missing steps.

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All About Automotive — 1850 NW Burnside Rd, Gresham, OR · (503) 465-2926

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