Dealer vs indie vs chain

0 / 5 beginner steps

1. 01Recalls and campaigns go to the dealerRun the VIN on /recalls and SaferCar. Takata, software, and campaign parts are dealer jobs. An indie can confirm the lamp. They cannot close most NHTSA campaigns.Say: I have the campaign number from NHTSA. I am here for the recall, not a menu MPI.
2. 02Warranty and buyback paper loves dealer ROsIf you are documenting a repeating defect, dealer invoices with “customer states” and days down are the file. An indie can still diagnose. Keep both headers.Say: Please write my words on the RO. I need the dates and miles for a file, not a vibe.
3. 03Intermittents and “no codes” often want an indie who diagnosesAsk how they bill diagnosis, whether you pay if you decline the repair, and whether they have a scope — not a parts cannon. Chains can be fine. Ask the same questions.Say: What is the diagnosis hour and the not-to-exceed? If you cannot duplicate it, what do I leave with?
4. 04Chains are a menu. Treat them like a menu.LOF, wipers, a cabin filter you can see, a tire they will torque to the door sticker. Decline the flush package until you have a reason and a number.Say: I am here for the oil and a look at the cabin filter. I will not pre-authorize a trans flush.
5. 05Body and structure is a different roofA mechanical shop is not a frame machine. After a hit, the claim folder and a body shop talk to the adjuster. See the claim playbook.Say: I need a body estimate, not a brake MPI, unless the hit bent something you can measure.