Tires at Steve's Auto Repair.

Why an independent repair shop may be better for your tires than big box stores

In Tires and Wheels by Steves Auto Repair and Tire

If you’re thinking about getting your tires from the big box stores – such as Costco, BJs, Sam’s Club, or Walmart – you may want to consider an independent repair shop.

While you may save some money at big box stores, local auto repair shops can take better care of your car’s needs overall.

Independent repair shop vs. big box stores

Let’s face it, these bigger stores are ordering train loads of tires and get better deals than an independent repair shop – hence the cheaper price.

However, they won’t repair your tire if you didn’t buy it from them. We will.

Most likely, you can’t set up an appointment at a big box store. Instead, you may need to wait until someone is available to help. This could encourage you to browse through the store and spend money you weren’t planning to.

At local auto repair shops, you can make an appointment or drop off or pick up your vehicle at your convenience.

If you need a ride in the local area, we can shuttle you both and forth – for free.

Independent businesses, like Steve’s Auto Repair & Tire, are not only able to repair and replace tires and provide mounting, balancing and road hazard warranties. We perform wheel alignments, brake repair, and state inspections, as well.

This actually makes us a one stop shop, even if our prices on Goodyear, Kelly and Dunlop are a little higher.

Local auto repair shops take care of basic maintenance, including oil changes, mileage-based services – such as air filter, cabin air filter and fuel filters – and fluid exchanges – like transmission, power steering and engine coolant. 

Some of these fluid exchange services may give you a little extra warranty coverage, depending on the repair shop.

As they work on your car, independent repair shops can keep you informed about the status of your brakes and other parts, which help you plan for needed maintenance and repair and can prevent potential breakdowns.

Steve’s Auto Repair & Tire does this through digital inspections.

Steve’s Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Goodyear tire dealer located in Woodbridge, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including BMW and Mercedes. Services include oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.