The Best Repair Shops for Your Car in 2024
It’s no surprise that vehicle maintenance and repair costs continue to climb, as highlighted in J.D. Power’s 2024 Canada Customer Service Index—Long-Term Study released today.
Consider this: the average cost of a visit to a car dealership has increased from $432 a year ago to $465 this year. When it comes to independent shops, a similar trip now costs $273 instead of $262.
- Also: Study Reveals Least Expensive Car Brands and Models to Maintain
- Also: What Maintenance Work Is Required After 100,000 km?
Rising new vehicle prices and high interest rates are pushing owners to keep their aging vehicles longer. The study found that 40 percent of visits to dealerships and 24 percent of visits to aftermarket shops this year were for repairs. Back in 2021, we were talking about 31 percent and 21 percent, respectively.
“As more owners opt to fix their vehicle instead of buying a new one, auto repair shops have an opportunity to attract more lucrative business in this $13 billion market by excelling in the service factors that drive customer satisfaction, mainly saving time and convenience,” said J.D. Ney, automotive practice lead at J.D. Power Canada.
Just like in 2023, dealerships account for 61 percent of the auto service market's total revenue, with the aftermarket segment capturing the remaining 39 percent.
The Best Repair Shops in 2024
From May to June 2024, J.D. Power Canada conducted a survey among 8,750 owners of vehicles that are 4-12 years old (still under warranty or not) to assess their usage and satisfaction of service shops. Dealerships’ overall score of 800 points on a scale of 1,000 is lower than that of aftermarket facilities with 813 points.
Lexus dealerships lead the way in 2024. In fact, they rank highest for the third consecutive year. Mercedes-Benz and General Motors (Cadillac, Chevrolet, Buick, GMC) dealerships round out the podium, while Subaru dealerships finish dead last once again, just below BMW dealerships.
Great Canadian Oil Change ranks highest among aftermarket service facilities. Jiffy Lube ranks second and Midas is third. Costco has moved up from last year, while Canadian Tire has slid to the bottom.
