Pawlik Automotive Vancouver - Frequently Asked Questions

What is Maintenance?

Maintenance is performing services at a routine interval to keep your vehicle reliable, safe and economical to operate. Every vehicle manufacturer has a maintenance schedule that outlines their recommended service intervals. We follow this schedule; however, where we find their maintenance recommendations deficient we will suggest additional services to keep your vehicle in its best condition and avoid costly repairs.

My car is new and under warranty. Do I have to take it to the dealer for maintenance service?

No, you are free to choose where your vehicle is serviced. You can count on us to do all of your vehicle's scheduled maintenance. As an independent shop we can provide the added benefit of offering you an unbiased opinion about a warranty covered problem. A dealer may not do this and often will not perform a warranty repair unless the problem is severe (and that often gets fixed with your money, later on)

Isn't the dealer the best place to take my car for service; after all they are specialists in my vehicle?

While dealerships are specialized in certain makes of vehicles, many times their maintenance schedules have a narrow focus and critical items get missed. Most dealerships are too large to offer personal service and get to know your driving and maintenance needs. As a client of Pawlik Automotive we get to know what you and your vehicle really need and will tailor a maintenance program to suit you. You can rest assured that we have the tools, equipment and expertise to service your vehicle.

Do I really save money by maintaining my vehicle?

Absolutely. A recent JD Powers and Associates study found that it costs 46% more to fix what is broken than to perform preventative maintenance. Over and above the savings of routine maintenance you also reduce stress by having your car serviced on your schedule, not when it decides to quit and leave you stranded. You save additional money because your car lasts longer and is worth more at resale time.

How much should I expect to spend to maintain my vehicle?

The latest figures from the CAA (Canadian Auto Association) have the average vehicle owner spending an average of $1400.00 per year.

What does this mean to Me?

First this is an average. Near new vehicles will be very inexpensive whereas a 20 year old luxury vehicle will certainly exceed that average by many times. The important thing is not to get too discouraged with one maintenance or repair bill: look at it in the broader context and average it out. One year may cost you $2000 whereas the previous year may have only been $600.

Further considerations around maintenance costs need to be put into the broader context of overall vehicle cost. While a new car may cost a few hundred dollars a year to service the monthly payments are high. For example an average cost of $500 per month puts the total at $6200 per year. You can repair a lot for much less money. Of course there is a time when your car will need replacement and this varies greatly on your needs. We are always pleased to help you make sense of these numbers in any way we can.

If I maintain my vehicle meticulously will I prevent it from ever breaking down?

Unfortunately, No. However, with regular maintenance, many problems can be forecast and the number of problems will be greatly reduced. You will drive safer, with more confidence and you will save money.

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