When you are looking for interesting information about cars, check out our blog! We strive to entertain and educate Truckee drivers about any and all auto repair related topics, and if you have any other questions, we encourage you to ask the auto mechanics at Quality Automotive Servicing.

Consumer Reports Finds Customers Prefer Independent Shops Over Dealership Service Departments

 

March 2024

Consumer Reports released satisfaction ratings with dealership service departments and it didn't bode so well for the dealerships. What they found is that customers prefer independent shops like Truckee's Quality Automotive Servicing and rate them higher for trust, reasonable prices, reputation and knowledgeable mechanics.

There are many reasons that customers prefer independent shops over dealership service departments and it mostly comes down to

  1. Price of service
  2. A higher level of customer service and interaction with advisors
  3. Wait times

Good Advice From Consumer Reports - Be Consistent With Maintenance & Who Is Doing It

In the same article John Ibbotson, chief mechanic at the Consumer Reports CR’s Auto Test Center had some pertinent advice for car owners about finding and sticking with an independent shop that you like and trust.

“Get routine maintenance done at the same place consistently,” he says.  “That way you can establish a relationship with the staff, and its mechanics can get to know your car and keep an eye on developing problems before they become bigger, more expensive issues.”  

We at Quality Automotive Servicing couldn’t agree more. Our team works together to be sure that customers and their vehicles are fully taken care of. As "your partner in auto care", we prioritize customer relationships so that the customers always feels comfortable contacting us about any issue and can be confident in the performance of their vehicles. Whether they are planning a big road trip for summer or taking a short trip off the mountain, having the expertise and personal attention of QAS is vital to vehicle safety, dependability and longevity.  

At QAS we have plenty of stories of customers dissatisfaction with dealership service departments but this most recent one stands out.

A customer recently visited our shop after experiencing a terrifying noise in their car. They assumed that the dealership, with its reputation for knowing everything about the make and model, would provide flawless service. This customer was surprised to discover that when the dealership had replace the serpentine belt theinstallation had been botched so severely that the belt was rubbing against crucial engine components. Fortunately, they sought our expertise before it escalated into a major issue.

 

We think our “Passion Statement” says a lot about why Quality Automotive Servicing as an independent shop is a local favorite.

We go beyond the obvious to educate customers with full disclosure and transparency. This allows you, the service advisor and the technician to find the best solution to keep your vehicle reliable for years to come.

Our business:

  • Maintains a clean work & customer environment.
  • Commits to individual & team training.
  • Invests in our Community.

Quality Automotive Servicing is located at 11500 Donner Pass Road, Truckee, CA 96161. The shop is open Monday through Friday. Hours are 8 am to 5 pm and closed for lunch from noon to one. 

Service is by appointment, including for oil service and smog checks. A night key drop and pick up is located in a secure place and the shop has rental cars available. 

If you haven't experienced the outstanding service at QAS, check out the over 2000 reviews on the webpage.