Independent repair shop or dealership: which fits in Windham?

For routine maintenance and most repairs, an independent shop works on all makes and models and lets you deal directly with the people doing the work. A dealership service department makes the most sense for repairs covered by a factory warranty and for safety recalls, which the brand's franchised dealers handle.

Using an independent shop does not void your warranty

This is the most common worry we hear. The Federal Trade Commission explains that under federal law, a manufacturer cannot void your warranty just because you had routine maintenance done somewhere other than the dealer. Follow the schedule in your owner's manual and keep your receipts.

When the dealership is the right call

Repairs covered by your factory warranty are paid by the manufacturer, so take those to the brand's dealer. Recall repairs are done free at franchised dealers too. Check your vehicle for open recalls by entering your VIN at NHTSA.gov/recalls, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's lookup.

What an independent shop gives you

At an independent shop you talk to the people who work on your car, not a service counter reading from a script. One shop can service every car in the household, domestic or import, car, truck or SUV.

What to expect from any good shop

Whoever you choose, expect to hear what the car needs and what it will cost before work starts. Ask what is urgent and what can wait. Keep every receipt, because it protects your warranty and helps when you sell the car.

How we work at M & Son

M & Son Auto Sales & Service is a locally owned shop at 619 Roosevelt Trail on Route 302, where Santi and Ron run the bays. We handle oil changes, brakes, engine diagnostics, suspension and general repair on all makes and models, including vehicles we did not sell. You will know the work and the cost before we turn a wrench.