A recent study conducted by Moller Auto has uncovered significant concerns among Estonian drivers regarding the use of unlicensed auto service providers. According to the findings, 37% of participants identified the potential for additional damage during maintenance or repair as the primary risk when choosing unlicensed services. Close behind, 36% of respondents expressed worries about the employment of unqualified specialists in such facilities.
Izīda Gerkena, COO of Moller Auto Baltic, emphasized the risks associated with these unlicensed services, stating that they can compromise vehicle integrity and safety. "Vehicles that are poorly maintained or repaired can become a hazard on the road," Gerkena explained.
Furthermore, 15% of the drivers surveyed were concerned that unlicensed services might not use original parts. Other risks highlighted include delays in maintenance and repair work and a lack of appropriate tools and equipment. Gerkena added that unlicensed services often do not guarantee their work, making it difficult to prove that repairs were actually performed, a problem not encountered with certified dealerships.
The study also revealed that 89% of participants believe the primary reason drivers opt for unlicensed services is due to lower costs. Additionally, 29% choose a service based on recommendations from friends and family, and 20% based on location. About 11% were not aware of the risks involved, and 8% were swayed by promises of faster service.
Gerkena pointed out that various myths circulating around dealership services are the reason why people continue to opt for unlicensed services, a fact confirmed by the study results. "One such myth is that dealership services are excessively expensive. Over time, the prices of dealership services have become significantly more affordable, and the services themselves have improved in quality. Modern technologies and trained specialists enable vehicle diagnostics and repairs to be carried out much more quickly and efficiently. It is also forgotten that even if the price list at an unlicensed service is somewhat cheaper, repairing a car there can lead to much higher repair costs in the long run, as low-quality parts require more frequent repairs or replacement. An important added value is that the dealership maintains all information about the car and its repairs while performing maintenance work. Even more importantly, high-quality maintenance and repairs ensure that the vehicle is safe on the road," emphasized Gerkena.
Traffic safety is one of the main reasons why Moller Auto wants to raise public awareness about the importance of quality car maintenance and repair. To improve access to quality services, Moller Auto offers maintenance and repair services for Škoda and Volkswagen at four dealership locations across Estonia – in Tallinn at Ülemiste and Mustamäe, in Pärnu, and in Ida-Virumaa, which also serves as the official Audi dealership for the region.
The survey was conducted in collaboration with Norstat in July 2024. A total of 893 licensed residents of Estonia aged 18-74 participated in the study.
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