Preferred Automotive Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers about planning your visit, vehicle care and our shop policies.
General Questions
Where is Preferred Automotive located?
Preferred Automotive is at 12356 Wilkins Ave, Rockville, MD 20852. Our weekday hours are Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Call 301-881-8530 for directions or current scheduling availability.
How can I book a service appointment?
Call 301-881-8530 or use our online booking link. Preferred Automotive also accepts requests through the website and communicates with existing customers through our text platform. Online bookings receive a text confirmation; contact us if you need help confirming your appointment.
How far ahead should I schedule service?
During busy periods, Preferred Automotive may book four to seven days ahead. We make room for emergencies when possible, so call and explain your vehicle concern and timing needs.
Do you accept walk-ins?
Yes. Preferred Automotive accepts walk-ins whenever possible. If the schedule is full, we will help arrange a suitable appointment and discuss transportation options.
Can you complete repairs the same day?
Many maintenance services and repairs can be completed the same day at Preferred Automotive, depending on the work, parts and schedule. We explain the expected completion time and contact you if it changes.
How do I drop off my vehicle after hours?
At Preferred Automotive, night-drop envelopes are in the brass mailbox at the first bay door. Put your key in an envelope, include your contact information and vehicle concerns, and place it through the night-drop slot in that door.
Can I arrange after-hours vehicle pickup?
Yes. Arrange after-hours pickup with Todd, Mike or Gary at the front desk. Preferred Automotive offers payment by text or phone and will make an individual arrangement for your key.
Can you arrange towing to the shop?
Yes. Preferred Automotive can arrange towing through Auburn Towing at 301-977-2740. You may also use a towing company of your choice. When we pay Auburn Towing on arrival, the towing charge is added to your repair invoice for payment at pickup.
Do you offer a local shuttle?
Yes. Preferred Automotive offers a local shuttle, typically within a few miles. Twinbrook Metro on the Red Line is also within walking distance; ask us about a ride to the station when arranging your visit.
How do estimates and repair approvals work?
Preferred Automotive reviews your vehicle needs, explains the recommended work and provides an estimate including parts, labor, fees and taxes before repairs begin. We discuss the inspection findings with you and obtain approval by phone, text or email. Additional work requires your approval.
Can I bring my own parts for installation?
No. Preferred Automotive does not install customer-supplied parts. We normally use parts from original-equipment manufacturers unless an alternative supplier offers a better part for the repair.
How will I receive repair updates?
Preferred Automotive communicates by text, phone or email according to your preference. Our AutoServe1 digital inspection reports include photos, videos and explanations, and we contact you promptly about changes or delays.
Which payment methods do you accept?
Preferred Automotive accepts cash, approved checks, Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, Apple Pay and Android Pay. Financing is available through Synchrony Bank; ask us for the current offer and applicable terms.
What types of vehicles do you service?
Preferred Automotive services domestic, Asian and European vehicles, including hybrids, electric vehicles, diesel vehicles, pickup trucks and commercial vans. Service availability varies by make and repair; our transmission repair exclusions are explained in the service questions below.
Is Preferred Automotive locally and family owned?
Yes. Preferred Automotive is a family business owned by Gary McKee. The shop opened on October 10, 1990, at the same Rockville location it occupies today.
Are you open on Saturdays?
No. Preferred Automotive is closed on Saturdays.
Can my vehicle stay overnight?
Yes. Preferred Automotive accepts vehicles that need to stay overnight for larger repairs or later pickup. We do not charge storage for those arrangements.
Can you help with an urgent repair appointment?
Preferred Automotive does its best to prioritize customers facing an emergency. Call 301-881-8530 to explain the problem; availability and repair time depend on the vehicle and the work required.
What is available in the customer waiting area?
Preferred Automotive has a clean, comfortable waiting area with coffee and Wi-Fi.
Is the customer entrance wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The parking lot and entrance to the waiting area at Preferred Automotive are on the same level. Accessible parking is directly in front of the office, and our team can move your vehicle when you drop it off or collect it.
Do you accept extended vehicle warranty plans?
Yes. Preferred Automotive accepts extended warranty plans. We charge our normal repair rate and deduct the amount the plan pays; you are responsible for the remaining balance.
What training does your team have?
The team at Preferred Automotive has Lincoln Tech training and takes specialist classes and online training. Our technicians are not currently ASE certified.
Do you keep my vehicle repair history?
Yes. Preferred Automotive keeps detailed repair and maintenance records and can add records from other shops to help plan future service.
Will I receive maintenance reminders?
Yes. Preferred Automotive sends text and email reminders for factory maintenance, oil changes and previously recommended work, including safety concerns.
Do you maintain fleet vehicles?
Yes. Preferred Automotive provides fleet maintenance with payment due at pickup. We do not offer fleet billing accounts.
Can you handle insurance-covered repairs?
Yes. Preferred Automotive works with insurance companies and adjusters on covered mechanical repairs and can bill an insurer directly. Bring the vehicle in and report the problem to your insurer so an adjuster can follow up; coverage, approvals and your share of the cost depend on the claim.
What should I bring to my service appointment?
Bring any maintenance records for Preferred Automotive to review and add to your vehicle history. For an ignition concern, bring all keys. Bringing both key fobs also lets us check or replace both fob batteries if needed.
What are your diagnostic charges?
Diagnostic work at Preferred Automotive starts at $212. If the concern needs more diagnostic time, we explain the additional time and cost before proceeding. An initial estimate does not replace a paid diagnosis or inspection.
What does your Minor Service include?
The Minor Service at Preferred Automotive includes an oil change, tire rotation and a full AutoServe1 digital vehicle inspection with an explanation of the report. The approximate cost is $195; ask us to confirm the price for your vehicle. Diagnostic work is separate.
How long should I allow for a diagnostic appointment?
Plan for at least one hour for a typical diagnostic appointment at Preferred Automotive. Intermittent or complex concerns may need more time; we explain any additional work and keep you informed.
Can a tow truck drop my vehicle off after hours?
Yes. Vehicles can be towed to Preferred Automotive at any time. For an after-hours arrival, use the night drop and leave a message with your contact details and a description of the problem.
How do you check repairs before returning a vehicle?
Preferred Automotive test-drives and inspects completed work, with checks by different team members when appropriate. We follow up after pickup by phone, text and email and keep track of future maintenance or unfinished recommendations.
Which vehicle makes do you service?
Preferred Automotive welcomes Acura, Audi, BMW, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Honda, Hummer, Hyundai, Infiniti, Jeep, Kia, Lexus, Lincoln, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans, Mercury, MINI, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Oldsmobile, Pontiac, Porsche, Range Rover, Saab, Saturn, Scion, Subaru, Suzuki, Toyota, Volkswagen, Volvo. Call with your year, model, engine and requested work so we can confirm service availability. We do not repair transmissions in Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Porsche, Land Rover, Range Rover or Saab vehicles, including Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans.
Which areas do you serve, and where is the shop?
Preferred Automotive welcomes drivers from Rockville, North Bethesda, Aspen Hill, Garrett Park, Kensington, Potomac, Silver Spring, North Potomac and Bethesda. All service takes place at our Rockville shop at 12356 Wilkins Ave, Rockville, MD 20852; these are communities served, not separate shop locations. Call 301-881-8530 to plan your visit.
Service Questions
Do you rebuild engines?
No. Preferred Automotive repairs and replaces engines but does not rebuild engines. We can diagnose the concern, explain replacement options and provide an estimate.
Do you rebuild transmissions in-house?
No. Preferred Automotive does not rebuild transmissions in-house. We diagnose transmission concerns, perform applicable repairs and services, and install new or rebuilt replacement units.
Are there makes you do not accept for transmission repairs?
Preferred Automotive does not repair transmissions in Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Porsche, Land Rover, Range Rover or Saab vehicles. This restriction applies to transmission repair; other service availability should be discussed with the shop.
Which makes do you specialize in for transmission work?
Preferred Automotive lists Ford, GM, Chrysler, Toyota, Honda, Mazda, Nissan, Lexus, Acura, Hyundai, Kia, Jeep and Infiniti among its transmission specialties. Call with your year, model and symptoms to confirm the work needed.
How long does transmission diagnosis take?
A typical transmission diagnosis at Preferred Automotive takes one to two hours. More complex problems may need additional time, which we discuss with you.
How long does transmission repair or replacement take?
Transmission work at Preferred Automotive commonly takes one day to a week, depending on the repair and whether a replacement transmission or other parts must be ordered and shipped.
How long does a typical brake repair take?
A typical brake repair at Preferred Automotive takes about half a day. The exact time depends on the vehicle, parts and the work identified during inspection.
Do you perform oil changes and factory maintenance?
Yes. Preferred Automotive performs oil changes, factory-scheduled maintenance and tune-ups using the vehicle’s needs and service history to plan the work.
Do you replace engine and cabin air filters?
Yes. Preferred Automotive inspects and replaces engine and cabin air filters and drive belts as part of its maintenance services.
Do you offer pre-purchase and road-trip inspections?
Yes. Preferred Automotive offers pre-purchase and road-trip inspections and explains any findings or recommended work.
Can you diagnose check engine lights and intermittent problems?
Yes. Preferred Automotive performs computer diagnostics and investigates check engine lights, drivability concerns and intermittent vehicle problems.
Which brake services do you provide?
Preferred Automotive repairs brakes, replaces pads and rotors, services brake fluid, and repairs ABS and parking-brake systems.
Do you repair steering and suspension?
Yes. Preferred Automotive repairs steering and suspension systems, replaces shocks, struts and wheel bearings, and provides four-wheel alignments.
Do you sell tires and repair flats?
Yes. Preferred Automotive sells and installs tires, repairs suitable flat tires, rotates and balances tires, and services tire-pressure monitoring systems.
Do you replace timing belts and timing chains?
Yes. Preferred Automotive replaces timing belts and timing chains and can check which system your vehicle uses.
Can you repair overheating problems and coolant leaks?
Yes. Preferred Automotive diagnoses overheating, repairs radiators and coolant leaks, replaces water pumps and performs coolant flushes. We also diagnose and repair oil leaks.
Do you test batteries and replace alternators or starters?
Yes. Preferred Automotive tests and replaces batteries and replaces alternators and starters after diagnosing the starting or charging concern.
Do you repair wiring and ignition systems?
Yes. Preferred Automotive performs electrical wiring repairs and replaces spark plugs and ignition coils. Ask us about the specific electrical issue affecting your vehicle.
Do you repair A/C and heating systems?
Yes. Preferred Automotive repairs automotive air conditioning and heating systems and recharges A/C systems when appropriate for the diagnosed problem.
Do you clean fuel injectors and repair fuel systems?
Yes. Preferred Automotive offers fuel injector cleaning, fuel induction service and fuel-system repairs based on the vehicle’s condition and service needs.
Do you repair exhaust and emissions problems?
Yes. Preferred Automotive repairs exhaust systems and performs emissions-related diagnosis and repair.
Do you service automatic, manual, CVT and dual-clutch transmissions?
Yes. Preferred Automotive diagnoses and services these transmission types where supported for the vehicle. The listed make exclusions for transmission repair still apply.
Do you perform transmission fluid, filter and leak services?
Yes. Preferred Automotive performs transmission fluid and filter service, flushes and fluid-leak repairs where appropriate for the vehicle.
Can you repair transmission electrical faults, valve bodies or torque converters?
Yes. Preferred Automotive diagnoses transmission electrical faults and slipping or hard shifts and offers applicable valve-body and torque-converter repairs or replacement. Vehicle and make restrictions apply.
Do you repair clutches, differentials and transfer cases?
Yes. Preferred Automotive repairs or replaces clutches, repairs differentials and services transfer cases.
Do you work on diesel truck transmissions?
Yes. Preferred Automotive works on diesel truck transmissions within its supported vehicle range. Call with your truck details to discuss the problem.
Do you service hybrid vehicles?
Yes. Preferred Automotive regularly services hybrid vehicles. Tell us the make, model and concern when booking so we can plan the visit.
Do you work on Tesla and other electric vehicles?
Yes. Preferred Automotive works on Tesla and other electric vehicles. Contact us to confirm the particular service required for your model.
Do you service diesel vehicles?
Yes. Preferred Automotive services diesel vehicles. Call with the vehicle details and the maintenance or repair needed.
Do you work on pickups and commercial vans?
Yes. Preferred Automotive works on pickup trucks and commercial vans. For fleet maintenance, payment is due at pickup.
Need help planning your visit? Call 301-881-8530 or contact Preferred Automotive.
