Do main service centres offer anything independents cannot?

Advocado

I was speaking to a friend who works for a car dealer and he mentioned there's not a lot of profit in new cars - all the money is in servicing.  And it got me thinking, I've always gone back to the main dealer for servicing, but do I need to?

Can main dealers do/offer anything local independents can't?  For example, software updates for the car.  Do manufacturers allow independent garages to update the car's software?

Grumpy_chap

Main Dealers can offer you a stamp in the log book with the manufacturer's branding.

Main Dealers *should* be kept better informed on the latest techniques and processes (and software) updates for maintaining that car - it may even mean they can be more efficient and pass the time saving onto the consumer in the form of lower bills *cough*

Main Dealers may be able to influence *goodwill* if anything arises in the future that is just outside the normal warranty coverage of the vehicle.

Advocado

Didn't think about the warranty.  Better read up and check my warranty would not be affected.

molerat

Advocado said:

Didn't think about the warranty.  Better read up and check my warranty would not be affected.

"Warranty" should not be affected a long as oem parts are used but "goodwill" beyond the strict warranty likely will.  Ford for one do allow independent garages access to a lot of their data and software but it costs.  Also check what else comes with a dealer service, I get full breakdown / recovery.

Herzlos

Main dealers will do any recall items or software updates at the same time, but that's about it.

daveyjp

Main dealers will also carry out non urgent vehicle recall work.

Sandtree

When we had an VW Eos the service guys once showed the thickness of the service manual -v- a Golf so if you have a more complex vehicle, like a hard top convertible, maybe indeps wouldn't have the knowledge etc for all the extra checks, lubrications etc the roof needs etc...

That said, after having my Eos for 4 days for the roof mechanism being stuck VW then phoned me and asked how to get into the boot so maybe not much better.

EssexExile

Depends on the brand and dealer. With Volvo we got the first 5 services for £600, each service includes full breakdown cover for a year.

motorguy

Grumpy_chap said:

Main Dealers can offer you a stamp in the log book with the manufacturer's branding.

Main Dealers *should* be kept better informed on the latest techniques and processes (and software) updates for maintaining that car - it may even mean they can be more efficient and pass the time saving onto the consumer in the form of lower bills *cough*

Main Dealers may be able to influence *goodwill* if anything arises in the future that is just outside the normal warranty coverage of the vehicle.

They'll -

• have all the latest software updates
• Their mechanics will be trained by / to the manufacturers standards
• Use genuine OEM parts not spurious motor factor ones
• Ensure the work keeps your warranty intact
• be better placed to lend you a car
• Generally mini valet your car 
• Goodwill from the manufacturer / dealer if someone goes wrong after warranty

BUT, you're paying extra for that.

Our 2019 BMW - we get the servicing done by the main dealer (one so far) in line with the manufacturers schedule, we get an interim service done by our local indy and any maintenance done by him.  Probably once the car gets past 5 years old (so another 2 services) we'll just get the indy to do it.  Its a performance hatch which, while we have no plans to sell it any time soon, tend to sell better / be worth a bit more with a main dealer history.

Bigphil1474

Our 18 plate car is getting it's servicing done by a dealer (Peugeot). I was a bit sceptical at first as I've always used an Indy, but their costs have been on a par, they produce better paperwork (full service report on the vehicle), and when I asked about software updates, they told me how to do it myself rather than pay them £50 to do it. They also collect and return the car (cleaned) after servicing, so I'm sticking with them for the moment. I might change my mind if I need repairs - depends on the costs.

marlot

A friend with a hyundai used an independent service centre.

When he had an engine failure, Hyundai challenged whether the right oil had been used, and even sent a sample away for analysis.  They also queried the oil filter used (non-OEM).

They did eventually pay for a new engine - but it was a lot of stress, uncertainty and delay.