Independent repair shops have a significant advantage over new vehicle dealerships when Canadians are asked where they expect to find the best prices for vehicle maintenance and repair, according to new data from DesRosiers Automotive Consultants (DAC).
The findings come from DAC’s annual Light Vehicle Study, which surveys approximately 4,500 Canadian vehicle owners about maintenance habits, repairs, brand preferences, spending and other aspects of their interaction with the automotive aftermarket.
Among respondents, 57.4 per cent associated independent repair shops with the best prices. Canadian Tire followed at 24.7 per cent, while generalist chains were selected by 21.2 per cent. New vehicle dealerships did not emerge as leaders on price, but the study suggests they maintain a competitive advantage elsewhere.
When DAC asked consumers who chose dealerships for service why they did so, 36.3 per cent cited brand expertise and specialized knowledge. Another 34.7 per cent pointed to trust in the work and the expectation of the highest quality.
“The Canadian aftermarket is a vibrant and competitive marketplace with a wide range of players serving the different needs of consumers. It is also a market facing a number of transformational industry dynamics that will reshape how Canadian consumers have their vehicles maintained and repaired,” said Andrew King, Managing Partner at DAC.
The findings highlight a clear distinction in how consumers perceive service channels. Competing directly with independents on price may be difficult, but dealerships appear to have equity in expertise, vehicle-specific knowledge and trust.
