Wallets are getting tighter these days. Even for those of us who aren't affected by economic woes, the price of gas will have you down right squinchy! A recent article quotes one shop owners saying his regular maintenance business is down because car owners are deciding to hold off because they are spending so much on gas. We know the gas prices are killing you, but don't skimp on your regular maintenance! It may seem like you're saving money, but maintenance is what keeps your car out of the shop. Skipping important maintenance jobs will end up costing you more money in the long run, and that doesn't make much sense at all.

So what's the answer? Do it yourself! Most regular maintenance jobs are quick, easy and inexpensive. We can show you how to get them done, so you have no excuse. Performing your own scheduled maintenance can save money in many ways, but you'll also be getting to know your car or truck better. This means you can catch problems before they get out of hand and you'll be able to communicate much better with your mechanic should something need serious repair.

Insurance companies get a bad rap. Everybody hates auto insurance until they need to file a claim, and all of a sudden they're all friends. A week later they go back to hating their insurance company. It looks like some insurers, like The Hartford, want to just skip the part where you pretend like you're friends and just stick to being hated. They have a new plan over there called Direct Repair Provider, or DRP. It's basically a network of pre-approved repair shops that are authorized to work on your car if you make a claim. Sounds innocent enough, right? It could even be a good idea, letting your insurance company find the shop and do the legwork for you. The problem lies in the future implications. If your car is sent to one of the Preferred Provider shops, you're essentially letting the insurance company repair your car. Since the repair shop is in the pocket of the insurer, who's side do you think they'll take when a repair is up for debate? I'd also be willing to bet that in exchange for the steady stream of business that will come when a shop becomes a DRP, they agree to lower rates. This can mean lower quality work and less attention to detail.
The issue is heating up in the industry, but it will be up to consumers -- the ones paying for car insurance -- to tip the scales in the direction of independent repair shops and no direct oversight by the insurance companies. If your insurer is offering these packages, be sure to think long and hard before you sign up.

Read more about The Hartford and DRPs on ABRN's website. Fight for independent repair shops!