AIA Canada has released a new edition of its Consumer Behaviour Series, this time focusing on the factors that influence Canadian vehicle owners when choosing a dealership, independent repair shop, chain, or other automotive service provider.

Titled Dealership or Independent Service Provider: How Canadian Vehicle Owners Choose a Service Provider, 2026 Edition, the report examines the factors that influence consumer trust, loyalty, and decision-making when it comes to vehicle maintenance and repair.

The study explores why some motorists choose dealerships over independent repair shops, as well as the key factors that help build long-term trust with a service provider. It also looks at the barriers that may prevent consumers from choosing independent providers and how evolving customer expectations are reshaping the competitive landscape.

These insights can help businesses across the automotive care and repair sector better understand customer expectations and decision-making in a market where trust and loyalty remain important considerations.

Industry professionals interested in learning more about the study’s key findings or accessing the full report are invited to visit the AIA Canada website. A free executive summary is also available.

Picture credit : AIA Canada