I've got a few years on me. I've been in nearly every part of the automotive business, from starting out at the auto parts counter at Advance Auto, to working my way up to management, to switching my game up to wrenching. Eventually, I worked my up to ASE master tech status, then a Volvo Master Tech, and now here I am as the Quality Assurance Manager at FCP. I've worked in the dealership, I've worked in an independent garage, and I've seen my fair share of the game. But, there's always been one term that has bothered me. Grease monkey? Nope. Part exchanger? Nope.
What really bothers me is calling the dealer the stealer-ship.
I'm a big fan of DIY and helping others help themselves. I have a tremendous amount of respect for the independent shop who's out there lacking the special tools and manufacturer backed research and repair data that today's vehicles demand. Independents make it happen, resourcefully, with just what they have to make it work. But the dealer technicians are factory trained professionals. They see the same cars day in and day out. They know the specific systems on your vehicle, how they work, and what it takes to properly maintain them, and the factory designed tools to repair them. They know the brand. They use factory genuine parts to repair your vehicle so there's peace of mind knowing that your local shop didn't shop for the cheapest low quality part that'll last six months.
Now hang on, I'm not saying all independents do this, but there is no sense denying that this kind of shop exists. Additionally, don't get me wrong, there are many quality independents who take pride in their high quality parts and service but having been in a wide range of shop environments. Being on the tech line at FCP I do hear my fair share of horror stories.
I'm not telling you to take your car to the dealer for all repairs because there is a lot out there that can be done yourself.
I want to hear your take on the subject.
I want to hear your good experiences, your bad experiences, and your ugly experiences. I want to know why you choose to take on your repair or bring it to a professional. I want to know why you choose the dealer or why you choose the independent. But most of all, I want to hear why?
No filter.
Let's hear it- real talk.
