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.
As we head into the new year, we are kicking things off with exciting news for the Sugar Hill and Suwanee community, because Team Ryan Automotive is officially in town! Since opening our doors in 2015, Team Ryan Automotive has proudly delivered exceptional service and trustworthy repairs in Buford, GA (Gwinnett County) and Cumming, GA (Forsyth County). Today, we are excited to bring that same level of care, expertise, and community commitment to drivers in Sugar Hill and Suwanee with our newest location at 820 Brogdon Rd, Suwanee, GA 30024. Did you know that it's possible to be in Sugar Hill city limits while having a Suwanee address? That's exactly where our Team Ryan Automotive Sugar Hill / Suwanee location is positioned. A Meaningful Transition This new location represents a special passing of the torch. After 26 years in Gwinnett County, John and Lori of J & L Automotive are retiring and entrusting their previous customers to be taken care of into 2026 and beyond by Team Ryan. As a husband and wife team, John and Lori built their business on trust and care. Those same values continue with husband and wife team Dan and Shara of Team Ryan Automotive, making this transition a natural fit and a continuation of a strong local legacy.
Auto Repair You Can Trust for Every Driver Every driver has different needs, but whet her you’re commuting in a family SUV, managing a fleet truck, driving your first car, or serving the community as a first responder, you deserve an auto repair shop that puts honesty, safety, and expert care first. At Team Ryan Automotive, serving Buford, Cumming, and Sugar Hill / Suwanee, our family-owned shop is built on one promise: Your car. Your needs. Our expertise. For Parents & Family Drivers Your vehicle carries the most important passengers in your life. From school drop-offs to weekend errands, we help keep your car safe and reliable with: Oil changes and fluid checks Brake repairs Tire rotations and alignments AC repairs and multi-point inspections At Team Ryan Automotive, we believe trust starts with transparency. That’s why we never hesitate to walk you out to the shop and show you exactly what’s going on with your vehicle. Seeing an issue firsthand helps ensure clear communication and confident decision-making. We also use Digital Vehicle Inspections (DVI) to keep you fully informed. Each inspection includes: Photos of your actual vehicle Clear descriptions of any recommended maintenance or repairs Honest explanations—no pressure, no surprises You’ll always know what your car needs and why. For Young & New Drivers A first car should come with confidence. We offer: Clear explanations Honest recommendations ASE-certified diagnostics No pressure. No confusion. Just a trusted mechanic you can rely on. For Contractors & Fleet Drivers When your truck is your business, downtime isn’t an option. We provide: Fast diagnostics Brake and suspension repairs Tire services and alignments Routine fleet maintenance We help keep your workday running smoothly. For First Responders & Essential Workers We're honored to support our community heroes with dependable, transparent auto repair you can count on, every visit, every time. Our team has the experience and equipment to service a wide range of vehicles, including: Vehicles up to 15,000 pounds Sprinter vans Emergency and service vehicles Dually trucks and work vehicles Why Drivers Choose Team Ryan Automotive? Family-owned and operated ASE-certified technicians Honest diagnostics, no upsells High-quality parts and repairs Lifetime Warranty on most services Convenient online scheduling Whether you’re searching for auto repair near me, oil change in Buford, or brake repair in Cumming, Team Ryan Automotive is here for you.
Team Ryan Automotive was proud to partner with the Suwanee Library to host a free Car Maintenance & Safety Workshop, designed to help drivers of all experience levels feel more confident behind the wheel. Led by Dan Ryan, co-owner of Team Ryan Automotive and a 25-year ASE Certified Master Technician, the program combined education, live demonstrations, and hands-on learning for our Buford and Cumming communities. Before the event began, Liam and Aidan welcomed families outside the library, handing out toy cars and inviting children and parents to join in the fun. The Suwanee Library staff treated us to a special behind-the-scenes tour, including a peek at the famous bouncy book drop bins that keep returned books safe from damage! What We Covered Participants gained practical knowledge and real-world tips, including how to: Select the right engine oil for their vehicle Use a dipstick to check oil levels accurately Change a tire safely and keep the right tools on hand Assemble a vehicle emergency kit for road safety Identify the qualities of a trustworthy auto repair shop and what to expect from professional service. Throughout the session, attendees asked great questions and shared their own experiences. A line quickly formed after the presentation, as community members stopped by to get one-on-one advice from Dan and the team. Continuing the Mission At Team Ryan Automotive, we believe that knowledge empowers drivers and strengthens our community. This event was a wonderful reminder of why we do what we do, educating, supporting, and serving our neighbors with honest, reliable auto care. Thanks to everyone who came to the event! We’re excited to share that the library has already invited us back for another session soon. Keep an eye on our website and social channels for details on the next community car care workshop in Suwanee!
