A car dealership is generally directly associated with a brand: Toyota, Honda, Ford, Hyundai, Volkswagen, BMW, etc.

Their technicians mainly work on vehicles of that brand and usually have the diagnostic tools and procedures provided by the manufacturer.

In contrast, an independent garage can repair various makes and models.

It could be a small local garage or part of an automotive network.

In both cases, mechanics can perform a large portion of regular maintenance and common repair work.

How much does car repair cost in Canada in 2026?

Today, price is one of the main differences between the two options.

According to data from the J.D. Power 2026 Canada Customer Service Index – Long-Term Study, reported in September 2026, owners of vehicles aged 4 to 12 years spend on average:

Average expenses at dealerships have increased by 51% compared to 2020.

However, be cautious: this does not mean that the same repair systematically costs $566 at the dealer and $363 in an independent garage.

Dealerships typically handle more complex repairs, influencing their average bill.

When to choose an independent garage?

For many routine maintenance tasks, an independent garage is an interesting option.

Oil change and periodic maintenance

Generally, you do not need to return to your dealer for every oil change.

An independent garage can perform:

• oil changes;

• filter replacements;

• brake maintenance;

• tire changes;

• battery replacement;

• suspension maintenance;

• replacement of certain exhaust parts;

• air conditioning maintenance;

• various mechanical diagnostics.

For an older vehicle, the savings can add up over the years.

To reduce repair costs

Cost is one of the main reasons Canadians turn to the aftermarket.

J.D. Power data from 2025 already showed that 65% of owners who chose an aftermarket establishment cited the high service cost at the dealer as their main reason.

In 2026, the average expense gap remains significant.

For a multiple-year vehicle that regularly needs brakes, tires, oil changes, or suspension work, this difference can amount to a considerable sum.

To have a direct relationship with your mechanic

One of the appreciated advantages of independent garages is often proximity.

In some establishments, you can speak directly with the mechanic inspecting your vehicle.

This facilitates questions like:

Is it urgent?

Can I still drive for a few more weeks?

Is there a less expensive part available?

Which repair should I prioritize?

This relationship can be particularly helpful as a vehicle ages.

When to choose the dealership?

The dealership is not automatically a bad option.

In some situations, it can even be preferable.

Your vehicle is still under warranty

If a repair is covered by the manufacturer's warranty, starting by contacting the dealer is generally logical.

You might avoid paying for a covered repair out of pocket.

There is a manufacturer recall

A vehicle recall must normally be handled by the manufacturer's network.

So, before paying for a repair related to a known issue, check to see if your vehicle is subject to a recall.

The repair requires a specific tool or software

Modern cars have become true computers on wheels.

Cameras, radars, driver assistance systems, electronic control units, and software sometimes require access to specific tools or data.

The right to repair has become an important issue in Canada.

AIA Canada indicates that in 2026, some independent repairers still face practical difficulties accessing certain data, technologies, or information needed to repair modern vehicles.

For some very specific interventions, the dealership may indeed hold a technical advantage.

Can independent garages repair modern cars?

In many cases, yes.

Modern independent garages also use:

• OBD scanners;

• electronic diagnostic tools;

• alignment equipment;

• programming tools;

• calibration devices;

• technical databases;

• equipment for hybrid and electric vehicles.

However, not all garages have the same equipment.

Before a complex repair, it is useful to ask:

"Do you have the necessary equipment to diagnose and repair my vehicle's model?"

And for an electric or hybrid car?

The situation is slightly different.

Electric cars require less traditional mechanical maintenance since they do not require engine oil changes, for instance.

However, they include:

• high-voltage batteries;

• complex electronic systems;

• software;

• specific cooling systems;

• electric motors;

• advanced driver-assistance systems.

In 2026, dealerships remain more engaged in maintaining electric vehicles.

According to data reported by J.D. Power, the aftermarket represents about 34% of interventions concerning zero-emission vehicles in the studied category, compared to 51% for combustion engine vehicles.

Before entrusting an electric vehicle to an independent garage, check that it has the appropriate qualifications and equipment.

Do I always have to use original parts?

No.

This is also a significant difference between dealerships and independent garages.

The dealership usually favors OEM parts, i.e., parts matching the manufacturer's specifications.

An independent garage can often offer several options:

OEM Part

The manufacturer's solution or equivalent to the originally installed part.

Premium aftermarket part

A part from another recognized manufacturer.

Budget part

A less expensive solution that may be suitable for some older vehicles.

Always ask the garage which brand of part will be installed and what warranty accompanies it.

Which option to choose according to the repair?

Here's a practical rule of thumb.

Therefore, there is no perfect choice for every situation.

How to choose a good automotive garage?

Whether choosing a dealership or an independent garage, compare several factors.

1. Request an estimate

Before authorizing work, request a detailed estimate including:

• parts;

• labor;

• diagnostics;

• taxes;

• possible additional work.

2. Ask what part will be installed

OEM, premium aftermarket, or budget part: the price and quality can vary significantly.

3. Check the work guarantee

Ask what warranty covers parts and labor.

4. Read reviews

Customer reviews can help identify the establishments known for their transparency and service.

5. Compare multiple garages

For significant repair, getting multiple estimates can help you better understand the actual market price.

The right to repair is gradually changing the rules in Canada

The choice between dealership and independent garage is also a regulatory issue.

In Quebec, new provisions related to the right to repair took effect on October 5, 2025, notably aimed at improving access to certain information, parts, and data necessary for repairers.

In 2026, AIA Canada continues to advocate for a federal framework that allows independent garages easier access to the data necessary for repairing modern vehicles.

With ever more connected cars, this issue should become even more important in the coming years.

So, independent garage or dealership in 2026?

For routine maintenance and most mechanical repairs, a good independent garage can typically offer an excellent compromise between price, proximity, and service quality.

The dealer remains particularly relevant for:

• warranty-covered repairs;

• recalls;

• certain complex electronic interventions;

• certain specific programming;

• some electric vehicles or very recent technologies.

The most important thing remains to choose the right professional for the proper repair, rather than considering either option as inherently better.

Find an automotive garage near you

Need an oil change, new brakes, diagnostics, tires, or mechanical repair?

With RendezVousAuto, find automotive professionals near you and schedule an appointment based on your availability.

Compare your options. Choose your garage. Make an appointment.

FAQ — Independent garage or dealership

Is it cheaper to have your car repaired at an independent garage?

On average, current expenses per visit are lower in the aftermarket than at dealerships in Canada. In 2026, J.D. Power reports an average of approximately $566 at dealerships versus $323 for the entire aftermarket.

Can you service a new car at an independent garage?

Several maintenance operations can be performed outside the dealership. However, it is important to respect the manufacturer's maintenance intervals and specifications and keep invoices and proof of completed work.

Do you need to go to the dealership for a check engine light?

Not necessarily. Many independent garages have tools to diagnose a check engine light. However, some electronic issues or specific programming may require more specialized equipment.

Where to repair a car that is no longer under warranty?

An independent garage can be particularly interesting once the vehicle is out of warranty, especially for routine maintenance, brakes, suspension, tires, and numerous mechanical repairs.

Dealership or independent garage for an electric car?

It depends on the vehicle and the intervention. Ensure the garage has training in electric vehicles and the equipment needed to work on high-voltage systems.