In taking my car into the dealership for a warranty covered routine maintenance, I did not anticipate and was unaware that one particular service within the “warranty window” would necessitate an out-of-pocket expense. Per my car’s mileage, when asked by a service advisor if I would like to also have this recommended precautionary annual service done that day, I reflected on an experience years earlier with a different dealership when I realized later a suggested service that was offered and I accepted was above and beyond what was essential and truly needed. Based on the excellent condition of my car less than 3000 miles since my last visit, I doubted the necessity of my car needing the service done on this day.
And, if it did need to be done, I considered going instead to a reliable private owned automotive shop I’ve been to on many occasions and trust. I’ve been pleased with their quality, service, and pricing and prefer to take my car there for repairs when services are no longer covered by a dealership warranty.
Drawing on these experiences, I was not quick to say ok. When given the dealership cost, I was certain the automotive shop pricing for the same quality service was less. When I asked if the dealership does price matching, I was told they do not price match with “mom-and-pop” shops. When I asked if my warranty would be voided if I had the service done elsewhere, I was told that as long as I had a receipt, it would not be voided.
After declining the offer, I inquired with the automotive shop their pricing for the service and it was confirmed they were substantially less by 75% the regular dealership cost and 50% less than the sale price the dealership was offering that day. When my car was returned following the covered maintenance and multi-point inspection, it was also confirmed that my car did not yet need the additional recommended service.
It was a tender mercy that with my prior dealership and automotive shop experience, I knew what questions to ask and I was not persuaded by skillful pressure sales to convince me to say yes on the spot to an unnecessary service and I was able to decline with an unwavering confidence.
When have you declined a recommended offer with confidence knowing that a suggested service was unnecessary at the time presented and the cost for the equivalent quality service was less elsewhere?
tendermercym❤️ments~jld
“How have you noticed Heavenly Father’s awareness and mindfulness of you today?”
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