Around your car
Myths, Facts & Cost Comparison: Independent or Brand-owned Workshops?
When assessing whether to use an independent or dealership workshop, one should consider these criteria: service quality and cost structures while debunking some of the myths around either.
Many would look at the costs first. Oftentimes, German Motors will receive feedback that the branded workshops, those directly related to the car’s manufacturers, are more expensive. An independent workshop is often able to offer aftermarket parts that are of the same high quality as the branded ones, but at lower cost. An independent workshop also has the advantage that a smaller operation means lower overall cost to be passed on to the customers.
Oftentimes, car owners are led to believe that only dealership workshops are equipped with the required diagnostic tools. However, as such tools are available for workshops to acquire, as an independent workshop, German Motors owns the tools and machines needed to perform the services as stipulated by the OEMs. The German Motors’ workshop boasts diagnostic tools for several brands in fact.
Technicians in independent workshops may even be more qualified to work on cars as they are not limited to just one brand. Having to work on various brands allows them to hone their skills and transfer knowledge. It is, of course, in our interest to have the German Motors’ technicians to be as technically knowledgeable as any technician in a dealership workshop. German Motors is actively participating in training technicians through partnerships with tertiary education providers.
It must be said that considerations regarding warranty are important. In Malaysia, the warranty of a car may be voided should an independent workshop service a vehicle. In consultation with our clients, we will discuss such situation prior to any work performed.
A dealership workshop may also be less flexible when it comes to scheduling and may not be as convenient to reach. Each car brand will have a service network; however, it may not always be the most convenient location. Located in the heart of Petaling Jaya, German Motors can even offer value added services that dealerships may not be able to provide as they are strictly governed by the brand’s guidelines.