Hi All,

I've got a (second hand) Punto Dynamic 16V Manual, no A/C which needs an MOT, an oil sump change, battery check, new fan, non-rattling exhaust and... a 72,000 mile service. Obviously this is going to be pretty pricey

I'd like to get the work done in my local garage, rather than the dealer, just to save on the money but how do I find out what the service actually entails? All I know is that it includes replacing the belts...

Thanks a lot,
Adam

I say, get your head under the bonnet and do as much as you can yourself.

Seriously, if you dont have time to learn, make time. Buy a haynes manual and some tools and get tinkering on the weekend etc.
I once needed a wiper motor replacing, garage said £240 to do.
So I did it myself, with basically ******** all mechanical knowledge, for £10 (second hand motor) and approx an hours work. Total saving of £230!

Tip for you. Go to a scrap yard, decide on a part you want and demolish said scrap yard car until you get to it. That way you dont have to worry about wrecking your own, and you also learn how to take apart/put back together

If not, shop around, even if it means getting jobs done individually by diff garages if this works out cheaper.