What is your warranty?
We offer a nationwide warranty for 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. Warranty work must be performed at our facility if the customer is within 100 miles when the problem occurs. For warranty claims needed outside this 100-mile range, please call for information about our nationwide warranty so we can connect you with a participating facility. No warranty is implied or given for performance parts or customer-supplied parts. No labor or parts warranty is provided for abuse or vehicles used in any racing or off-road environment. Warranty is non-transferable and applies to the original purchaser only.
How often should I get my car serviced?
We recommend following the manufacturer's recommended mileage-based and time-based maintenance recommendations.
How do I know if my brakes need to be replaced?
Most vehicles have a sensor on their brake pads that will either bring up a warning indicator on your dash or create a screeching sound that you can hear outside the vehicle while braking. We recommend checking your brakes at each service interval as well.
Anything I can do to maintain my car between services?
We recommend using Top Tier gasoline, which contains additives that help prevent carbon deposits from building up in a vehicle's engine. We also recommend avoiding overheating by stopping your vehicle immediately if coolant loss or overheating occurs. Closely monitor gauges and warning lights, and check for fluid leaks or fluid loss on a regular basis. Some auto manufacturers, such as Audi, allow up to one quart of oil consumption every 1,200 miles, so check your oil level at least every couple of fuel fill-ups.
Can I bring my own parts?
At Ozark Import Specialists, we exclusively use parts we source directly. This helps us stand behind the quality and compatibility of the parts we install, reduces liability risks, avoids delays from incorrect or faulty customer-supplied parts, and helps us get your vehicle back to you as quickly as possible. Because your safety and satisfaction are our priority, we cannot offer the same level of assurance when using parts from outside our trusted supply chain.
Why should I choose Ozark Import Specialists for my European auto repair needs?
Ozark Import Specialists has worked on European cars for almost 50 years from the same trusted location in Springdale, Arkansas. We service brands including Audi, BMW, Ferrari, Jaguar, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volkswagen, Volvo, and exotic vehicles. Our shop uses specialized tooling required to diagnose and repair modern European vehicles, and our technicians have experience with complex European automotive systems. We also stand behind our work with a nationwide warranty.
Do you offer after-hours drop-off or pickup?
Yes. To better accommodate our customers' busy schedules, we have an early-bird drop-off slot between our two front doors, and we offer a secure lock box system for after-hours pickup.
What type of parts do you use?
Whenever possible, we use OEM or OES parts in our repairs. OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer and typically refers to parts sold under the vehicle manufacturer's brand. OES stands for Original Equipment Supplier and refers to parts made by the same supplier that manufactured the component for the vehicle maker, but sold under the supplier's own brand. OES parts are often identical in quality and specification to OEM parts but may be less expensive because they do not carry the vehicle brand's markup.
Why is my car taking longer than expected or why do the repairs cost more than originally projected?
Modern vehicle repairs can take longer or cost more than originally anticipated when additional issues are found during disassembly. Plastic components in engine compartments can become brittle from heat cycles and fluid exposure and may break during teardown. Hidden trouble spots can also become visible once parts are removed. In addition, modern European vehicles often require vehicle-specific programming or calibration after components are replaced or repaired. These steps are important for safety, reliability, and proper vehicle performance.
Do you charge for diagnostics?
Yes. We charge for diagnostics because finding the real problem takes skilled labor, factory-level scan tools, technical information, and hands-on testing. Modern European vehicles have complex systems where one warning light can be caused by wiring, modules, sensors, software, mechanical issues, or past repairs. Proper diagnostics helps protect the customer from unnecessary parts replacement and helps the shop provide an accurate repair recommendation.
Why should I choose a European auto repair specialist for my service and repair work?
European cars use specialized engineering, advanced technologies, and unique designs that differ from domestic and Asian vehicles. These differences require specialized knowledge, experienced technicians, specialized tools, diagnostic equipment, and the correct OEM or OES parts. Bringing your vehicle directly to a European specialist can save time and money by helping ensure the repair is handled correctly the first time.
Do you require an appointment?
Yes. We recommend calling 479-751-0800 or using our appointment contact form to request an appointment in advance. All appointments are for drop-off time only and do not necessarily indicate the exact time a technician will begin working on your vehicle. Please select a date when you can drop your vehicle off before 8:30 am and leave it until at least the afternoon for diagnostics, repair, or maintenance services. If you have an emergency situation such as overheating or a no-start, please call us to arrange immediate service.
Do you work on classic or older cars?
Unfortunately, we no longer work on classic vehicles or vehicles older than 20 years old due to parts availability and other issues with 20-plus-year-old cars. We cannot slow down our workflow for our customers' daily drivers to work on classics.