How to Avoid Getting Ripped Off by an Auto Repair Shop
For many people, vehicle repairs can be a significant source of stress.
Often, it’s not the actual repair that causes the worry, but the uncertainty of what’s wrong with the vehicle and the need to rely on the mechanic’s explanation. If you don’t understand how your vehicle functions, it’s easy to feel exposed—and sadly, some repair shops exploit that vulnerability.
Luckily, dishonest mechanics rarely remain in business for long—word tends to spread quickly. However, that’s little comfort if you’ve already been overcharged or pressured into unnecessary repairs. The most effective protection is staying informed and recognizing the warning signs.
To help you, we’ve provided an objective, fact-based comparison between traditional repair shop services versus our dealership, so you can avoid being taken advantage of.
TRAINING
Our technicians complete an intensive training program developed by the manufacturer of your vehicle. The initial training can literally take years to achieve master technician status, and even then, our technicians are required to complete continuing education courses monthly to maintain their OEM certification.
So, who would you rather have work on your vehicle — a technician trained by the company that built it, or a mechanic taught by a coworker? The answer is simple!
Repair Shops
San Leandro Hyundai
PARTS
Our dealership exclusively uses OEM parts manufactured by your vehicle’s original maker, ensuring precise fit and reliable performance. In contrast, repair shops often rely on aftermarket parts made by third-party companies, which can vary in quality and may result in performance problems or even void your warranty. We've seen this happen and it's sad when it does, but once the damage is done, so is your warranty.
Repair Shops
San Leandro Hyundai
WARRANTY PROCEDURES
Simply put, as an authorized OEM franchise, we are able to perform warranty repairs and file reimbursement claims directly, creating a seamless process with no out-of-pocket cost to you. Moreover, if the OEM extends your vehicle’s warranty - or a specific part of it, like the emissions warranty - we’ll know. Independent repair shops don’t have this access, don’t use OEM parts, and can’t process reimbursement claims - which means you're going to pay!
Repair Shops
San Leandro Hyundai
SAFETY RECALLS & CAMPAIGNs
Although the Safety as First Emphasis (SAFE) Repair Act of 2023 ensures auto repair shops to have the same ability to perform diagnostic and repair services as our dealership, the reality is that most do not have access to this information as quickly as we do. As an authorized franchise with direct access to the OEM, we receive updates on potential safety concerns and the resolutions much faster than repair shops.
Repair Shops
San Leandro Hyundai
COURTESY LOANERS
As an authorized franchise dealership, we have the advantage of providing service loaners on a first-come, first-served basis—something independent repair shops typically can’t offer. Plus, we’ll wash your vehicle, so when you pick it up, it won’t just run smoothly—it’ll look clean and refreshed too!
Repair Shops
San Leandro Hyundai
PRICING
This is probably the biggest misconception, so let us be clear. Our dealership is not more expensive than a repair shop. To prove this, we offer you our Price Match Promise. If you find a better price on the same repair we’ll match the price. We'll even include a parts & labor limited warranty for 12 months or 12,000 miles whichever comes first as well as a complimentary vehicle wash. With OEM certified technicians & parts, get expert care without compromise. It’s that simple. All you have to do is bring in a printed quote for the same repair and we’ll take care of the rest. Click the Service & Parts Specials button at the bottom of this page to see additional, important details.
Repair Shops
San Leandro Hyundai
Building Relationships That Last
Building relationships, not transacting sales, is our priority, and it has been since we opened our doors. "Customers are like Family" — that is our aim. Generations of customers have bought and serviced their vehicles at San Leandro Hyundai. The secret is in our streamlined processes that establish consistency, so you know exactly what to expect. San Leandro Hyundai is the family-owned business that earns your trust and delivers exceptional experiences. You’ll never get the feeling that “it's just business”; a sense of family and the importance of long-term relationships always come through.
Our Promise to You
We promise when you visit San Leandro Hyundai to service your existing vehicle, our team of experts will make the process simple, through dynamic processes that result in a uniquely different experience than you’d ever imagine.