Servicing your car outside of the dealer network

Car servicing is one of the most important aspects of vehicle ownership. A vehicle service should be carried out every 6-12 months to keep your car in top running order. But did you realise that you are not obligated to service within the dealer network? You can retain your new car warranty AND save money by opting to service with an independent mechanic. This is especially true for European vehicles from manufacturers such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi and VW. In this post, we will discuss some reasons why it makes sense to service outside the dealer network.

Cost savings

Car dealerships often stress the importance of servicing with them to maintain your new car warranty – but this is both misleading and incorrect. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) makes it very clear that provided all servicing is carried out according to manufacturer requirements, the warranty will not be affected. This leaves you free to shop around and deal with a mechanic of your choosing. If you are the owner of a European vehicle, you probably know how expensive it can be to service at the dealership. When you visit an independent workshop, you can make significant savings due to lower overhead costs and access to a wider range of parts options. Whether you own a BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Audi or VW – you will keep your warranty, receive great service and make significant savings when you choose to support local business.

Access to wider range of parts

Whilst a dealership will always recommend expensive original parts, an independent mechanic often has access to a wide range of quality new OEM and OES parts. This means repairs can be carried out quickly, efficiently and at a lower cost to you. Quality OEM and OES parts will not void your car manufacturers warranty, so this is yet another great reason to have your vehicle serviced outside the dealer network.

Friendly, personalised service

When you service within the dealership network, it can be difficult to communicate with the people who are working on your car. Much of the work is carried out behind closed doors and to a strict schedule. When you service with an independent mechanic, you will be treated as a valuable customer and be provided with personalised service and advice. Developing a good rapport with an independent mechanic will save you money and keep your cars in top mechanical order for years to come.

Servicing with SWEA

The expert mechanics at SWEA are factory trained, fully qualified mechanics with extensive experience working on European vehicles. Our vehicle service centre is located at Condell Park, 25 minutes from the Sydney CBD. We are fully equipped with the latest diagnostic tools and the broadest range of European auto parts in Sydney. All services will be carried out according to manufacturer guidelines, ensuring a hassle-free experience for you.

Vehicle Service details available here

The benefits of servicing outside of the dealer network are many. Not only will you retain your new car warranty, but you will also benefit from: cost savings, friendly and efficient service and access to a wide range of parts.