Ford Dealership Service Vs Independent Repair Shops
August 24, 2020
For any car owner, the question of where to take your car for regular maintenance (or if there’s any major issue) is always there. And that’s a fair question. If you have a Ford, why shouldn’t you take it to the Ford dealership? It just seems like the easy way to do things, right? Well, you might be surprised (or not) to know that independent repair shops can be just as helpful as dealerships, if not more.
The Mechanics
Mechanics at dealerships are specialists in whatever car that dealership sells. For example, a mechanic at a Ford dealership is an expert on Ford vehicles. A mechanic at a Toyota dealership specializes in Toyota vehicles. Do you see a pattern?
If you have either of these vehicles, it might seem like a good idea to take your car to the dealership. If they specialize in your car, that must mean you’re in safe hands, right? It actually might mean the complete opposite. Because they specialize in a specific type of car, it would be easy for them to miss an issue that a mechanic at an independent repair shop would very easily pick up on. For example, at Team Ryan Automotive, mechanics undergo continuous vehicle diagnostic training, keeping up with the latest trends and models of cars which helps them maintain a well-rounded skill-set.
Long-Lasting Relationships
Most independent repair shops maintain lasting relationships with customers for decades. Independent repair shops simply want to keep your car running safely, and in turn, keep you safe while you drive. There will never be an ulterior motive of trying to sell you something as they fix your car. Because of that, repair shops often built trustworthy, long-lasting relationships with their customers.
At Team Ryan, we will always support your goals with your vehicle. We will never try to get you into a brand new vehicle, if that doesn’t match with your goals. We always prioritize maintenance recommendations and leave the decision to you. That’s not how we believe business should be done. Our main concern is keeping you on the road and maintaining your safety as you drive.
Convenience
We want to work at your convenience. Many dealerships have limited hours, so they often don’t offer very much flexibility to their customers for drop-off or pick-up. We will work with you to make it as easy as possible for your car to get all the much-needed repairs to keep it going strong.
Price
Dealerships are simply more expensive than repair shops. Dealerships typically only offer original equipment parts, and that means you are stuck paying a premium for parts that are used. The good news is, independent repair shops use aftermarket parts or original equipment parts, and that means you get the same quality and functionality for less of the price.
So, the choice is pretty easy, right?
Team Ryan Automotive Repair For Your Ford Maintenance And Repair
Team Ryan Automotive has been keeping drivers in the Buford, Georgia area on the road since 2014. When you need great auto care backed up by excellent customer service, you can always trust Team Ryan. To schedule an appointment or get in touch, give us a call at (678) 884-4863 or contact us here.
How Essential Is a Summer Emergency Kit?
Summer heat affects every part of your car, but your tires are especially vulnerable. The hot pavement, rising internal pressure, and long drives can all contribute to tire failure. At Team Ryan Automotive, we want to make sure your tires stay safe and road-ready all season. Here is how summer heat impacts your tires and what you can do to protect them. 1. Increased Air Pressure As temperatures rise, so does the air pressure inside your tires. For every 10-degree increase in temperature, tire pressure can rise by one to two pounds per square inch (PSI). Overinflation can cause tires to wear unevenly and increase the risk of a blowout. Check your tire pressure regularly and adjust it according to your vehicle’s recommended levels. 2. Faster Tread Wear Heat softens rubber, making it wear down more quickly. This is especially true if you are driving at high speeds on hot asphalt. Inspect your tires weekly during the summer for signs of excessive or uneven tread wear. If you notice balding or sidewall damage, it is time for a replacement. 3. Risk of Blowouts Blowouts are more common in summer because the combination of high speed, high pressure, and worn tires creates the perfect storm. To reduce your risk, avoid overloading your vehicle, maintain proper tire pressure, and replace old or worn tires as soon as needed. 4. Importance of Tire Rotation Rotating your tires helps them wear evenly, improving traction and extending their lifespan. Team Ryan Automotive recommends rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. This simple step can save you money and help keep your vehicle safe. 5. Alignment and Balancing Improper wheel alignment or unbalanced tires can cause uneven wear and strain on your suspension. If your vehicle pulls to one side or your steering wheel vibrates at high speeds, schedule a wheel alignment and tire balancing service. This can enhance tire performance and improve ride comfort. Visit Team Ryan Automotive for Tire Safety Tire safety is essential for your comfort, performance, and protection. If you are not sure about the condition of your tires, let our experts take a look. We offer tire inspections, pressure adjustments, rotations, alignments, and tire replacements. Whether you are commuting around town or planning a summer getaway, we will make sure your tires are ready for the heat. Keep your summer rolling smoothly with tire care you can trust. Schedule your tire service today at Team Ryan Automotive.
Summer road trips are a classic American tradition. Whether you are headed to the beach, the mountains, or your favorite theme park, the journey should be just as enjoyable as the destination. To help you avoid unexpected delays and make the most of your trip, here are five key vehicle preparation tips from Team Ryan Automotive. 1. Start with an Oil Change Fresh oil helps your engine stay cool, reduces friction, and supports fuel efficiency. If your oil is dirty or your last change was more than 3,000 miles ago, schedule an oil change before your trip. Remember, all TRA oil changes come with our complimentary Standard Vehicle Inspection. 2. Inspect Tires for Wear and Pressure Proper tire maintenance is essential for road safety. Check the tread depth to ensure there is enough grip, especially if you expect rain. Look for cracks, bulges, or signs of dry rot that could lead to blowouts. Finally, make sure all four tires are inflated to the correct pressure. Do not forget to check the spare tire too. 3. Test Your Battery and Charging System No one wants to deal with a dead battery in the middle of a road trip. Summer heat can weaken your battery and stress your alternator. Visit Team Ryan Automotive for a battery test and charging system inspection. If your battery is nearing the end of its life, we will recommend a replacement to keep you powered up. 4. Check Brakes and Brake Fluid Reliable brakes are vital for a safe trip. Listen for squeaking or grinding when braking and watch for a spongy pedal feel. These could be signs that your brake pads or fluid need attention. Let us perform a full brake inspection to make sure your vehicle is ready for any driving condition. 5. Prepare Your Emergency Kit Every road trip should include an emergency kit. Stock it with jumper cables, a flashlight, basic tools, bottled water, a first-aid kit, and non-perishable snacks. Having these items on hand can help you handle unexpected delays or mechanical issues more comfortably. Bonus Tip: Schedule a Pre-Trip Inspection Before hitting the road, bring your vehicle to Team Ryan Automotive for a pre-trip inspection . Our certified technicians will check your fluids, belts, hoses, tires, and more. We will catch small issues before they become trip-ending problems. Enjoy Peace of Mind on the Road A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to summer travel. Our team is here to help you enjoy your road trip with fewer surprises and more smiles. Schedule your service visit today and travel with peace of mind.
