Foreign Car Repairs, Part Three
In many cases even certified auto repair shops will not have some parts in stock and you will be left with the option of either waiting for a long time for the part to become available or to use non original parts that the repair shop has in stock. If you decide to go in for the non original parts, make sure that the shop gives you a long term warranty on the parts they provide. They may be fine, but since they are not original equipment, you need to be sure not only that they will give you good service, but also that any future problems with them will not result in further damage to your car.
Most foreign car manufacturers’ will have details of their American auto repair services on their websites. If there is one near you, that’s always the best way to go. Whether you go to a certified car repair center or a non certified one, make sure that you get a detailed car repair quote, with parts and labor given separately, before you commit to any repairs. Even with certified auto repair shops, ridiculous mark ups on the spare parts prices are not unknown. Compare the estimate with the prices from other car repair shops and look for any huge price differentials. Certified auto repair shops will normally be more expensive because they will have spent on special equipment, on spare parts stock and specialized training for their auto mechanics to meet the manufacturer’s requirements. It’s always better to pay a bit more for the peace of mind you will get from going to these car repair shops for your repairs. But large price variations; especially on labor, is something you need to watch out for.
Be careful of a car repair center that offers to modify mechanical or electrical parts so that the car can use cheaper and more easily available domestically made parts. A car is a holistic piece of engineering with each part made to work is a specific way in concert with others. Modifications of this type will frequently result in damage to other car systems and components.
You bought your foreign car because of the drive, performance, features and style it offers. Just because car repair services may be a little more difficult or expensive does not mean that you should compromise on the repair standards and end up with less of a car than what you want.
