All vehicles require regular maintenance and occasional repairs in order to stay in good running condition. According to Statista, the United States had more than 239,000 auto maintenance and repair facilities at the end of 2021, which is nearly 18,000 more than in 2010 and 2% more than in 2020. Those auto shops generally fall under one of two categories: a factory-authorized service provider or a local auto repair shop. Here's a closer look at why you should choose a local shop for auto repair and maintenance services.

NAPA-Certified Mechanics

You don't need a factory-trained mechanic to get quality service for your vehicle. A local auto repair shop that hires experienced technicians who maintain certifications with the National Automotive Parts Association (NAPA) can provide high-quality car maintenance and repair services. A shop with state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment and mechanics who're experienced and certified are perfectly capable of doing excellent work on just about any make and model vehicle. Find one that works with insurance companies to ensure you're vehicle is able to receive the car it needs without having to break the bank.

No Factory Pricing for Services

Using a factory-authorized repair facility often means going to a dealership and paying a high rate for the mechanical expertise needed to work on that automaker's vehicles. A local auto repair shop often has more affordable rates for the labor needed to inspect vehicles, diagnose mechanical problems, and fix them. Instead of paying a premium for a factory-authorized service, you can choose a local shop that does equally good work without having to go deeper into your pocket to pay for good service. Work with a shop that meets or beats qualified written estimates to guarantee you're receiving the best rate possible for their services.

Local Word of Mouth

A local auto repair shop is part of the local community. You often can find people who have had their vehicles maintained or repaired at the same shop and get a good idea of the quality work that they do, their pricing, and how well they treat their customers. Good word of mouth helps you to know you're going to benefit from excellent automotive service. Find a shop with a plethora of experience in order to work with a mechanic that will be able to complete the repairs quickly and efficiently.

The more you use your vehicle, the more important it is to find dependable help. Local shops can help keep drivers on the road and address minor issues before they're able to grow into more costly problems. If you're looking for a team you can rely on, contact Automotive Technical Services today!