dealer or mechanic you trust?

[annieoneil]

Ok, I have had my new 2005 for two months--driven from NM to CA and back in first week and just loved it. But could someone review the pluses and minuses of using the dealership for regular maintenance vs. the independent dealer who is fantastic and well trained in Prius and I TRUST? Will the cost be less at dealer? what should I consider. I looked through ten pages of postings and couldn't find this question. Thanks, Annie

[galaxee]

if the independent shop you trust is comfortable and competent with priuses, by all means stick with the place that's earned your business. most maintenance is oil change and tire rotation anyway. just make sure you have documentation that the service was done, and date and mileage. that's pretty universal.

check prices, but i'd guess the dealer is going to be more expensive.

i'm assuming they have no association with toyota... so for anything major (ECU reflashes, anything high-voltage or hybrid battery related, warranty work) you'll have to go to the dealer. pretty much any adjustment that requires a scantool is also going to have to be done at toyota.