That figure surprises people because the dealer-is-expensive assumption is decades old and nobody in the dealer business bothers to correct it. Dealer share of service visits has been sliding for years on a price perception the data does not support.

Here is what the dealer price actually buys. Technicians trained by Honda on the specific systems in your car, including the two-motor hybrid drivetrain that an independent shop may see a few times a year. Genuine Honda parts, which matter most for the components that touch safety and emissions. Service documentation in Honda's system, which is what keeps a warranty claim clean. And recall and campaign work checked and completed in the same visit, at no charge, because only an authorized dealer can perform it.

For routine work, express service handles Maintenance Minder oil changes, tire rotation, filters and inspections without turning the visit into a day. Current pricing for the common jobs and this month's coupons are on our service specials page, and Honda oil change cost explains what drives the oil change price.