Courtesy Auto & Truck Center, Inc.

Signs Your Car Needs an Oil Change


When it comes to servicing your Ford, you usually have four options: do it yourself, take it to a quick-lube chain, have an independent repair shop do the work or bring it to your local Ford dealer. At Courtesy Auto & Truck, we want that last option to always be your first choice.


In fact, you might be tempted to explore those other options. However, servicing your vehicle at a Ford dealer gives you many perks you might not find anywhere else.


1. Knowledge and Expertise You Can Trust


On average, mechanics at independent and chain repair shops work on a wide variety of vehicles. While having general knowledge of automobiles seems like a great thing, it can make diagnosing and repairing certain issues with your Ford a slow and frustrating experience.


On the other hand, no one knows your Ford better than the certified technicians at your local Ford dealer. The mechanics and technicians there are specifically trained and certified to work on a wide variety of Ford models. They know your vehicle inside and out and regularly keep up with the latest improvements and changes in Ford vehicle technology.


Factory training, continuous learning, and regular certification. These are the three things that set certified Ford technicians apart from independent and chain mechanics. It also helps that certified Ford technicians have access to state-of-the-art tools and equipment, which makes diagnosing and fixing issues quicker and easier.


And whereas most independent and quick-lube shops use aftermarket parts, Ford dealers only use OEM parts for every repair. OEM parts not only provide an exact fit during repairs, but they also offer the same exact quality as the outgoing parts. That way, you’ll rest easier knowing your Ford will continue to perform as it was meant to from the factory.


2. Service That Goes the Extra Mile


You expect good service no matter where you go. However, Ford dealers go above and beyond the usual services offered at quick-lube chains and even independent shops. For instance, Courtesy Auto & Truck offers on-site auto body repair services, from scratch removal and rustproofing to paintless dent removal and collision repair.


Ford dealers can also offer special perks you won’t get at an independent or quick-lube shop. For instance, complimentary oil change service when you purchase a brand-new Ford. Other perks include pickup and drop-off service for your vehicle, as well as courtesy cars and trucks while your vehicle is being repaired.


You can even sit down and enjoy a nice cup of complimentary coffee in your local Ford dealer’s comfortably-equipped waiting area. Need to catch up on work? Your Ford dealer also has quiet work areas where you can get down to business. These and other perks are great reasons to have your vehicle serviced by a Ford dealer.


3. No-Cost Warranty Repairs


Every new Ford comes with a wide range of warranty coverages, from limited warranties that cover defects and workmanship to powertrain, emissions and corrosion coverage. That means if anything goes wrong with your Ford due to a manufacturing defect, your local Ford dealership can quickly fix the issue at no cost to you.


You’re probably wondering if you can take advantage of your warranty at an independent repair shop. Sadly, third-party repair shops are unlikely to honor your Ford factory warranty. What’s worse, having that work done at a third-party shop could potentially void your warranty coverage. As a result, your best bet is to have any warranty work done at a certified Ford dealer.


4. Guarantees and Extended Warranties


No matter the repair, you want it backed by a strong guarantee from a service team you trust. Ford dealers not only take pride in their work, but they also stand behind it. If anything goes wrong with your Ford after a repair, you can always bring it back to your Ford dealer and have additional repairs done, free of charge.


In addition to standing behind their work, Ford dealers also offer manufacturer-backed extended warranties. Of course, extended warranties go beyond the typical warranty period, giving you extra peace of mind about your Ford vehicle. You can also get these warranties at an affordable price, adding an extra measure of reassurance for many years and miles to come.