Originally Posted by
JROW
There are so many ways to buy parts/service outside of dealerships. It's not consumer ignorance, it's service. Many people want to take their car to a trusted, safe, knowledgeable place that specifies in their type of car. They know they will pay more, and they are okay with that as long as they are treated right and their car is as well. You can get a double cheeseburger at mcdonalds for a buck, but if you can afford it, I'm sure you'd rather go to a real restaurant and be served a real burger for a few dollars more.
I do understand what you are saying and to a certain extant I agree in fact. I was mostly referring to the lack of downward pressure on the automotive service market. I do believe that OEM parts are sold at high prices, indeed in many cases I have found OEM parts incredibly cheaper than dealership mark up prices. I have also believe that the way hours of labor are currently charged encourages mechanics to emphasize speed over quality of work. I am not saying that there aren't a lot of high quality mechanics out there that do great work, but I believe that a guy who can do ten shitty jobs in the time it takes another guy to do 5 good ones is going to be the one doing better. I have had a lot of issues with terrible work, and terrible service from dealers all while being charged exorbitant prices for parts and labor.
The truth is its not easy to find a good mechanic be it a dealer or independent operation, and many are out there to get every dime they can without care of your future patronage. On that same note a lot of the time consumers treat there cars like magic chariots that do not need maintenance until they do not work.