Why You Should Always Use a Certified Dealer for Service and Repairs

Posted by: Kerlin Motor Company
Location: Silver Lake, Indiana
Estimated Read Time: 4 minutes

Dealer Service Isn’t Just About Oil Changes—It’s About Confidence

We get it—there are dozens of places offering cheaper service or faster oil changes. But here’s the truth:

When you trust your vehicle to anyone other than a certified Ford dealer, you risk missing important updates, factory recalls, and critical repairs that impact your vehicle’s performance, safety, and long-term value.

Here’s why dealer service matters—and why it could save you time, money, and headaches in the long run.

1. We Catch Recalls and Technical Bulletins Automatically

Most independent shops don’t check for recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs). At Kerlin, we run your VIN through Ford’s national recall database every time you’re in for service.

If there’s a safety update, performance fix, or a known issue with your model—we’ll catch it and fix it at no cost to you, if covered.

Independent shops don’t have access to Ford’s recall and bulletin systems—we do.

2. Factory-Trained Technicians Know Your Vehicle Inside and Out

Our technicians are not generalists. They’re Ford-certified specialists who:

Train on specific Ford models
Know exactly how each system is designed to perform
Use genuine OEM parts, not “will fit” knockoffs
Understand the root causes of issues better than general repair techs

Whether you drive an F-150, Explorer, Shelby, or Transit, your vehicle is serviced by someone who knows that exact build and how to keep it performing like new.

3. We Update Your Vehicle’s Software and Electronics

Today’s vehicles are more like computers on wheels. Without the right tools, you’re missing updates to:

Powertrain control modules
Safety systems
Infotainment & navigation software
Fuel efficiency optimizations

Independent shops rarely have access to these systems. We do—and we make sure your vehicle stays up-to-date, safe, and responsive.

4. Warranty Backing = Peace of Mind

If something goes wrong after a repair, we’ve got your back. Most repairs at Kerlin are covered by:

Ford’s national service warranty
Extended warranty plans (if applicable)
OEM part guarantees

Try getting that at a discount shop down the road.

5. We Help Protect Your Trade-In or Resale Value

Vehicles with documented dealer service history often appraise higher—because it shows the vehicle has been:

Maintained to factory standards
Updated for recalls and safety programs
Repaired using OEM parts and protocols

That can mean hundreds or thousands more when it’s time to sell or trade in your vehicle.

Our Goal Isn’t to Be the Cheapest—It’s to Be the Most Trusted

At Kerlin Motor Company, our service department exists to keep your vehicle running at its best—and to protect your investment. Whether it's a routine oil change, recall, brake service, or warranty work, we’re here to do it right the first time.

Schedule Your Next Service Today

Visit us: Silver Lake, Indiana
Call: 260-352-2162
Schedule online: kerlinmotors.com

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Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained on this site, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. This site, and all information and materials appearing on it, are presented to the user "as is" without warranty of any kind, either express or implied. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. Price does not include applicable tax, title, and license charges. ‡Vehicles shown at different locations are not currently in our inventory (Not in Stock) but can be made available to you at our location within a reasonable date from the time of your request, not to exceed one week.

While we make every effort to ensure the data listed here is correct, there may be instances where some of the factory rebates, incentives, options or vehicle features may be listed incorrectly as we get data from multiple data sources. PLEASE MAKE SURE to confirm the details of this vehicle (such as what factory rebates you may or may not qualify for) with the dealer to ensure its accuracy. Dealer cannot be held liable for data that is listed incorrectly.

Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained on this site, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. This site, and all information and materials appearing on it, are presented to the user "as is" without warranty of any kind, either express or implied. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. Price does not include applicable tax, title, license, and $199 documentation fees. ‡Vehicles shown at different locations are not currently in our inventory (Not in Stock) but can be made available to you at our location within a reasonable date from the time of your request, not to exceed one week.

Kerlin Motor Company, Inc.