Dealer vs Local Garage: Who's Actually Cheaper?
Quotes for the same repair can vary widely between a brand's dealer service center and an independent local garage. This calculator compares the two quotes to show the cost gap and percent difference per visit, then factors in your annual visit count to project how much you'd save over a year by choosing one over the other.
How the calculation works
The cost gap per visit is the dealer quote minus the local garage quote, and dividing that by the dealer quote gives the percent difference. Estimated annual savings multiplies the per-visit gap by your annual visit count — the more often you get service, the more the difference adds up.
Things to consider when choosing
Local garages are often cheaper, but using aftermarket parts during your warranty period, keeping a clean service record, or repairs that need brand-specific diagnostic equipment may be safer at a dealer. Splitting which repairs go where based on the job can be a smart strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dealers typically charge more for OEM parts and factory-trained labor, but warranty-covered repairs or promotions can sometimes make them cheaper. Compare quotes item by item.
Aftermarket parts during your warranty period can lead to denied claims for related issues later. Choose carefully based on your remaining coverage.
Average how many times a year you visit for inspections, oil changes, and consumable replacements. More visits mean the cost gap adds up faster.