THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1994, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, October 23, 1994 TAG: 9410210019
SECTION: COMMENTARY PAGE: J4 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: Short : 35 lines
You published an article about sticking with an automobile dealership after the sale for repairs and service.
As an independent garage owner, I say that all independent garages should not be put into the same category. Some of us out here have the necessary equipment and ASE certified men the same as the dealerships have.
We also have the opportunity to go to the General Motors training schools to learn about new technology just as the GM dealerships do. Some of the independent shops try to give their customers a good job and don't gouge them because they would like to have their repeat business.
Some of the independent garages have up-to-date service manuals, including entire service manuals on CD-ROM. Also, we receive technical bulletins from foreign as well as domestic manufacturers of automobiles at least four times a year.
I agree that original-equipment parts are generally the best for replacement. However, I do find many cases in which some of the aftermarket parts have a better warranty and work just as well. After you have been in business for 30 years, as I have, you soon learn which parts are best for you and your customer as far as the cost and warranty.
In summary, some very good independent garages are doing a very good job of keeping America's wheels rolling.
SAM CHILTON JR.
Suffolk, Oct. 12, 1994 by CNB