Quite a few Americans own European vehicles according to a recent report from the automotive sector. In fact, the United States is the world’s second-largest market for European cars, surpassed only by Europe itself. Audi, BMW, Mercedes, and Volkswagen are the most popular automakers across the country right now though they’re not the only ones Americans are drawn to.
European vehicles have gained popularity for several reasons. They’re known for their quality, remarkable performance and handling, and style among other characteristics. Still, as is the case with all vehicles, getting the most out of them requires ongoing maintenance and prompt auto repair in North Marietta, GA. For people who own European vehicles, though, taking them to just any mechanic isn’t recommended. Trusting only those who specialize in European vehicles is important for several reasons.
Well-Honed Expertise
On the most basic level, auto repair shops that specialize in European vehicles have well-honed expertise in those models. They’ve received special training in taking care of those brands. With that being the case, they fully understand the unique mechanics, electronics, and engineering that go into them.
You wouldn’t take your pets to a pediatrician or your children to a veterinarian. Although each of those medical professionals may have the basic knowledge needed to offer medical care, neither has the in-depth training required to work outside their chosen field. The same principle applies to automotive technicians.
Specialized Tools and Equipment
Working on European vehicles also requires different tools and equipment than taking care of American-made models in some cases. For example, American components use imperial measurements whereas European parts are based on the metric system. European vehicles sometimes have more advanced diagnostics that require specific equipment and software to decode. Though some tools and equipment are universal, auto repair shops that mainly work on domestic models may not have the more specialized versions needed to work on foreign vehicles.
Access to Parts
Another reason to place your European vehicle in the hands of specialists is their access to the right parts to keep it running. They tend to have strong working relationships with European parts suppliers. That means they may be able to get parts for your vehicle more quickly than other shops. Chances are they’ll be able to get them more affordably than domestic repair shops as well. You won’t be as likely to have to resort to generic alternatives that won’t perform as well as OEM components, either.
Maintaining Your European Vehicle’s Performance
Americans are drawn to European vehicles because of their superior style, performance, efficiency, and other features. Placing them in the hands of the right automotive technicians is the key to maintaining those qualities for as long as possible. Though domestic shops can technically work on European brands, they may not have the specialized training, certifications, tools, and equipment to properly handle them. Trusting your car to a shop that specializes in European vehicles will maximize its performance while minimizing your long-term costs of ownership.