Car maintenance is something we can’t get around, even with a Ford Ranger. But, something we can choose is where we take our cars when they need a service or parts changed. So, where should you take your car when it needs to be serviced? Let’s look at your options quickly.
For basic services, you could do it yourself, or you could take it to a third-party mechanic. However, the safest bet would be to take your Ford Ranger to a certified Ford service centre, and here’s why.
1. Free repairs under warranty
When you buy a Ford Ranger, you normally get a 4-year, 120,000km warranty that’ll cover services and the replacement of faulty parts free of charge for you, but, there’s a condition. For this to apply, you need to have your Ranger services at a certified Ford service centre. If not, you might void your warranty.
This warranty is generally the reason for most Ford Ranger owners take their cars to a service centre to have them serviced or repaired. Firstly, they’re getting a fully paid-for service so they don’t have to worry about the out-of-pocket costs to maintain their vehicle. Secondly, they do it to maintain their warranty in the event that any other issues come up.
2. Ford-certified technicians
At a service centre, you’re car will be worked on by Ford-certified technicians. These individuals have been trained to work solely on Ford, specializing in how their engines are built and the procedures for repairing the vehicle. With all the necessary tools and regular updates on the latest repair methods, Ford technicians are equipped to handle any issue with your car.
3. Access to original parts
Ford Rangers are powerful cars, as a result, their parts are specially designed to handle the strain put on them. When you take your Ranger to a certified service centre, you’re assured that they’ll only use original Ford Ranger parts to repair your car. Aftermarket parts are often made with inferior materials, thus, they don’t last as long and can end up causing another issue in your car.
However, with original parts, you’re assured that they’re going to fit and that you’ll get reliable performance from them. Using original parts also ensures that your warranty remains intact. If you take your car to an uncertified mechanic and have aftermarket parts placed in it, your warranty might be void.
4. Repairs have a guarantee
Say you have a service done, and they forget to put your sump plug back incorrectly. As a result of this negligence, all of your oil leaks out, causing the engine to overheat and eventually fail. Any reputable third-party mechanic might try to resolve the issue to keep their reputation intact or simply because of professional courtesy; however, they may not be obligated to do so, and you might have to go to court to resolve the issue.
The same can’t be said with a Ford service centre. If a mistake was made while repairing your car and it shows clear negligence on their part, Ford will cover the costs to repair your vehicle because of the guarantee that comes with their services.
5. You’ll have a full-vehicle history
Reselling a car comes with a lot of factors, one of which is the service history. Buyers want to see that your car has a complete and accurate service history showing how the car was maintained, by who, and what the issues were. While you might get this at a third-party mechanic, it’s not likely that it’ll be as comprehensive as the one Ford will give you. This kind of transparency can be the selling point that helps you fetch a higher price for your Ranger when you sell it.
6. Better customer experience and convenience
Ford dealerships are committed to providing a superior customer experience. Many Ford service centres offer amenities such as comfortable waiting areas, complimentary refreshments, Wi-Fi, and shuttle services, making your service visit more convenient and comfortable
Additionally, they’ll provide online scheduling, so you can book your service appointment far in advance at a time that suits you best. The combination of professional and top-notch customer service makes taking your Ford Ranger to a Ford service centre a hassle-free and simply more convenient experience.
What if your car isn’t under warranty?
Much of what we’ve said here has been geared towards Ford Ranger owners, with Ford still under warranty. But what if your Ranger’s warranty has expired? Well, the standards of service and performance still stand. Original parts will ensure that your Ranger will perform better and they’ll last longer. Likewise, you’ll still have the assurances that come with taking your Ford to a certified service centre.
That means having the same specialized technicians working on your car, utilizing the same factory resources they would on a car under warranty. The only difference is that you’d have to pay a little bit more. But, if you consider the benefits, wouldn’t you say that paying a little extra is worth it?
Final Thoughts
So, to wrap things up, you should take your Ford Ranger to get a certified Ford service centre in most cases, especially if you’re still under warranty. Under warranty, you’re assured free services, quality service, original parts, and great customer-care. What more is there to say?