Auto Shop
The auto parts stores or motor-factors that also maintain service operations. This is not common in the United Kingdom but more common in the US.
Automobile repair workshops that are independently owned and operated businesses. These may also include regional or national chains and franchises including OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) repair sites such as in car dealerships. In the United States, these sites are commonly certified by their respective manufacturer to perform warranty and recall repairs by that manufacturer or distributor such as oil changes and other preventative maintenance items. Independent automobile repair shops in the US may also achieve certification through manufacturer sponsored programs.[1]
European Union law (The EC Block Exemption Regulation 1400/2002 (October 2003[2])) permits motorists more flexibility in selecting where their car is serviced. Maintenance and service work does not have to be done by the main dealer providing the garage uses Original Equipment ‘Matching Quality’ parts follows the manufacturer’s service schedules. The Block Exemption Regulation (BER) covers service and maintenance during the warranty period and prohibits vehicle manufacturers’ warranties from including restrictive conditions.
