Originally Posted By: roadrunner1
What hasn't been mentioned is servicing dealer, they can be just as good or bad as the automobiles mentioned, and can influence the preception of the car.
In my situation my local Ford dealer happens to be a very good friend of mine, I don't know if the friendship plays a role in my service or not, but I have had nothing but excellent Fords for the last 25 years. If I have had anything in for a fix they give me a car/truck to drive, no charge. If there isn't anything available to drive they give me one off the used lot.
Yhe one thing I have noticed over the years raising my three kids is one was bought a Honda, used of course, and the other two have Fords. When a repair was needed, and they all have needed them at one time or another, the Honda repair parts always cost more.
Whether it was a windshield, starter, alternator, or radiator the Honda parts were always more. Paying more doesn't make them any better,if they failed they failed, and quite honestly it has never made any sense since the Honda was and still built right here in Ohio.
I think you'll find good dealers and bad dealers for every brand. Your experience will be totally dealer independent.
Also, when you get to know people at the dealer it's amazing how your experience can be completely transformed. I had this experience at a Volvo dealer in PA. My mom actually knew the service manager and always treated her very well. I was shocked when I showed up at the dealer and he was very dismissive and not willing to help me at all. After a mere mention of my mothers name and suddenly my problem is getting resolved and I have a free loaner for the day.
Now I don't know if this is why you are receiving good service, but knowing someone at the dealer certainly doesn't hurt.