Right now, dealerships are conducting business in a different manner than ever before. During this unprecedented pandemic, sales departments at dealerships are not as busy but vehicles do still need service. The service departments are deemed essential business and are readily available to help you. If your car needs an oil change, tire rotation or repair, you may still do so.

But, did you know that you are not required to have service done at the dealership where you bought your vehicle?

Service and Sales Departments operate separately.

Service and sales departments at car dealerships are completely separate businesses. The managers of service departments are happy to help all car owners, regardless of whether or not those people purchased their cars at that specific dealership. This is a common misunderstanding. That said, you are certainly welcome to return to the dealership where you purchased your vehicle for service.

According to a Cox Automotive study, 70 percent of consumers who bought or leased from a dealer never returned for service in the past year.

Facts from the Cox study combined with NADA data totals a $15.9 million in annual lost revenue per franchise dealership when consumers do not return for service at the dealership of origin. Additionally, the Cox study reported “60 percent of respondents said they’d be willing to travel farther and 54 percent said they’d pay more for an enhanced service experience. Cost and a convenient location are the top two barriers to dealership service retention.”

So if you’re in need of servicing your vehicle, choose the service department that best meets your needs. Many are offering contact-free pick up and drop off as well. Keep your service up to date. When you trade in your vehicle, that makes a difference.

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