Let’s say an SUV needs a set of pads & rotors installed now. Not next week when preferred aftermarket parts could be acquired, but now. So it’s going to be whatever a national franchise has off the shelf.

Assuming quality of techs and other variables are equal, who do we like best and why?

-Rob

They are all pretty much the same. I don't think their quality of parts is going to be different between them.

If trying to choose a spot to go ASAP, I'd google each local place and look at their reviews.

quote:

Assuming quality of techs and other variables are equal ...

You can't assume that. There can be both good and bad people irrespective of the name on the shingle. I have worked in two Midas franchises. One was a literal "mom-and-pop" operation with one shop in a small town, the other had multiple locations in a big city. The former was run above-board with employees and clients treated well, the latter a complete cluster fuck whom I couldn't book out of there fast enough. I'm not familiar with Firestone Auto Care Centers, but I imagine the same can be said for them.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: egregore,

I’d prefer to be able to choose the manufacturer and grade of parts installed vs. a chain’s private label which are going to meet a minimum standard at the lowest acquisition cost for them.

I have used an independent shop for many years. If he needs parts that are not in stock, he picks up the phone and gets same day delivery from any of his distributors.

Local guy, the shop has been in business for decades, he took it over from his father. He's competent, honest, fair-priced, fan (and owner) of P229 / .357 SIG pistols, ex-Army, discounts for active duty or veterans, plasters the place with the right type of political posters ... what's not to like?

Could you purchase the OEM parts and have the shop with time to put them on now use them? Sometimes, you can ask the chain shop to purchase and install the OEM parts. My local Midas has a nearly instant delivery from the nearby GMC dealer for official GM parts, and of course at GM you choose if you want good better or best parts within the AC Delco line.

Not a hard job but as others have mentioned, it's all about using high quality parts.

This question would probably be better answered by people who live and work near you. Individual examples of the shops you listed vary widely in quality and honesty.

Firestone can and often will get aftermarket parts from a local store that are better quality than what they typically stock.

Brakes and rotors and easy. I know you posted what’s below but really the person butting them on matters most. Will he make sure the slid pins are good with no corrosion and grease them or just throw on pads and rotors on. Brakes or easy but there are a few steps that can make a difference down the road. Honestly probably a crap shot taking it to any of the major places.

quote:

Assuming quality of techs and other variables are equal, who do we like best and why?