Canadians Split Car Maintenance Between Shops, Dealers

A new survey reveals that half of Canadian drivers use a mix of independent repair shops and dealerships for vehicle care.

Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Car Maintenance

Bold vector editorial illustration of an elevated car chassis in a clean workshop, representing Canadian automotive maintenance habits. — A new survey of 2,200 Canadian drivers indicates that half of motorists divide their vehicle maintenance between independent repair shops and dealerships. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you prefer using independent local repair shops over car dealerships for your vehicle maintenance?

A survey of 2,200 Canadian drivers shows that 50% use both dealerships and independent repair shops for their vehicle maintenance needs. The findings highlight diverse preferences as the average age of the Canadian vehicle fleet reaches 11 years.

Why it matters

Understanding these habits helps drivers navigate the balance between cost-effectiveness and perceived quality in automotive care. Motorists frequently prioritize better value and lower expenses when choosing where to service their vehicles.

While 27% of Canadians use dealerships exclusively, 23% rely solely on independent shops. Home maintenance rates vary significantly, reaching 20.2% in Manitoba and Saskatchewan compared to 10% in British Columbia.

The players

Automotive Industries Association of Canada

This national trade association represents the automotive aftermarket industry and conducts research on sector trends.

The details

Independent shops often use visible credentials to build trust, while roughly 50% of motorists believe dealership technicians possess superior training. Drivers frequently make provider selections based on recommendations from friends and family.

The Automotive Industries Association of Canada published the report on October 27, 2026.

Roadmap

As the average Canadian vehicle fleet age reaches 11 years, drivers are increasingly managing maintenance through a hybrid of professional outlets. This shift challenges traditional dealership dominance by emphasizing value and cost-efficiency in the competitive repair sector.

Drivers looking to save on repair costs may find better value at independent shops, which 41% of users identify as their primary reason for choosing those providers. For those who prioritize perceived technician expertise, dealership options remain the preferred service route.

The takeaway

Drivers should evaluate their vehicle age and budget needs to determine whether a dealership or independent shop offers the best service value. Seeking recommendations from friends can help identify reliable local technicians who display proper training credentials.