Where can I get my car repaired ?

When your car breaks down, the first instinct is to take it to a garage. But did you know there are alternative venues, often much cheaper, to get your car repaired?

These alternatives to the traditional garage are often little known, even though the quality of work can match that of a regular workshop.

So what are they? Follow along, and we’ll tell you everything!

Different “garages” where you can have your car repaired

First, it’s important to know that to maintain your vehicle warranty, you are not obliged to have all maintenance done at a dealership.

Professional repair shops

The first idea that comes to mind when you have a car problem or need a service is to go to a professional mechanic.

What you should know is that the term “professional mechanic” covers several types of workshops with often very different price levels. In this category you’ll find:

• Brand dealerships (e.g., Peugeot dealership, Renault dealership, etc.)
• Nationwide auto centers (e.g., Norauto, Feu Vert, Midas, etc.)
• Independent garages. These are typically smaller, non-franchised shops, which does not mean their repair quality is any lower.

Vocational school workshops

Automotive repairs can also be carried out at vocational high schools. Students learn to work on cars by tackling real-world cases. Changing the oil, replacing the oil filter, students perform these tasks like professionals. They work under the supervision of a certified auto mechanics instructor who is always present to oversee the work.

Replacement parts are new parts, and invoices are identical to those from a regular garage. However, labor costs are often lower, calculated at the school’s hourly rate.

This option is only available in certain cases. The vehicle must be pre-selected according to the school’s educational project.

Community and self-service garages

Community garages—also known as participatory or solidarity garages—allow you to repair your vehicle yourself or at low cost. They serve clients who often cannot afford a regular garage. These garages operate with community and government support, and sometimes by selling used cars.

The self-service garages let you rent lifts and equipment. You can also purchase spare parts or maintenance supplies (filters, oil, etc.).

DIY car repairs

The most economical way to handle repairs is to repair your car yourself.

Some maintenance or repair tasks are relatively simple and don’t require specialized training (for example, changing an air filter). Oil changes can also be straightforward, depending on the model.

However, when a warning light appears on your dashboard, you often need to plug in a car diagnostic scanner to identify the issue. But even that you can do yourself by purchasing a diagnostic scanner!

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