Dare to Compare – Independents vs Ray Skillman Kia

Open Today! Service: 7am-6pm | Call us at: (317) 885-2700

Certified Technicians Verses Uncertified: The Similarities

When you need a mechanic in Indianapolis, you don’t lack options. However, it’s important to narrow down the list before you start making phone calls. One area to use as criteria is manufacturer certification. Now, there are some similarities between certified and uncertified shops. Both will likely have experience working on cars and repairing your car, but there are some very important differences.

Certified Technicians Verses Uncertified: The Differences

The main differences between certified and uncertified shops concern the quality of the work, the parts used, insurance issues, and amenities. When you’re dealing with a certified shop that has been certified by Kia, you already know you’re going to receive a base level of quality concerning the repairs, and the parts will be OEM certified, so they’re going to fit and work with your car. Uncertified shops haven’t had to go through training with Kia and haven’t had to show the competency levels to become certified, so the quality of the work varies wildly.

Service & Parts Specials

Schedule Service

OEM Parts Compared To Third-Party Parts

When you need parts for a repair, you should always use OEM certified parts, and with a certified shop, you don’t have to worry as Kia certified shops only use OEM parts approved by Kia. A non-certified shop may use third-party or discount parts that can cause an assortment of problems. The key issue with third-party parts is that they are generics and may not meet your Kia’s specifications. That means the part may not fit right, perform correctly, or to the levels it should. The last thing you want is some cheap shock going out, leaving you in a ditch on a Smith Valley roadside.

Your Insurance And Your Mechanic

Accidents happen, but that’s why you have auto insurance. When your Kia needs repairs, certification matters a lot. A certified shop can work with your insurance company, and most of them have established business relationships with the major carriers. This means the majority of the paperwork is handled by your claims adjuster and the repair shop. Your insurance will likely pay for repairs at an uncertified shop; however, all they do is cut you a check – the fine details, and any issues with the repairs are all up to you.

Why Amenities Matter

Finally, when picking a shop, be it in Greenwood or Southport, don’t forget about amenities, because your comfort matters. A smaller non-certified shop lacks features such as setting up appointments online, drinks, food, weekend hours, and even comfortable waiting areas. Amenities make the process far easier, more comfortable, and more convenient.

For routine maintenance or repairs when needed, give us a call at Ray Skillman Southside Kia in Indianapolis, IN. We serve the areas of Greenwood, Smith Valley, Southport, and Bargersville with car sales and a full-service shop with properly authorized technicians.

Schedule Service