Independent repair shops play an important role in how Canadians maintain their vehicles, but certain consumer perceptions continue to put them at a disadvantage.

In its new report, Dealership vs. independent: How Canadian vehicle owners choose a service provider, 2026 edition, AIA Canada examined the habits of more than 2,000 Canadian vehicle owners. The findings show that the decision to choose a dealership or an independent shop goes well beyond price. aiacanada.com

Among the most notable findings, 34% of respondents believe having their vehicle serviced at an independent shop while it is under warranty will void the warranty, while another 21% are unsure whether doing so would affect it.

Perceptions surrounding expertise are also a challenge: 47% of vehicle owners surveyed believe dealership technicians are better trained than technicians at independent shops. This perception is even more common among electric vehicle owners. aiacanada.com

However, consumer habits are not so clear-cut. Half of respondents say they use both dealerships and independent automotive service providers for maintenance and repairs.

The report also found that 31% of vehicle owners feel overwhelmed when bringing their vehicle in for maintenance or repairs. For repair shops, this highlights the importance of clearly explaining repairs, recommendations and the expertise of their team.

According to AIA Canada, while value for money remains an advantage for independent shops, transparency, technical expertise and customer service all play an important role in building trust and long-term loyalty.

Source: AIA Canada, September 30, 2026.

Picture credit : AIA Canada