I agree it's probably overkill worrying about oil brand. Like has been said, so long as the grade matches the requirements stated there should be no problem. I would just prefer to go exactly with what's stated, given the cost increase is negligible. I think when you've spent £10,000 plus on a new car, to try and save a tenner on cheaper oil is just daft. Fair enough if the difference was £100+, but not for the price differences I've been quoted for Selenia vs A-another oil.
My main point though, is that if a dealership is Fiat/Alfa approved they should use products that Fiat/Alfa recommend and/or if they don't, let the customer know - I think it's reasonable to assume that to meet the manufacturer accreditation the dealer used products recommended by that manufacturer.
It should be really simple - 'we generally use Shell lubricants, Sir. Would this be OK or would you prefer to pay £X,Y,Z for Fiat recommended Selenia?'. Job done. It's the assumption that we'll pay approved dealer prices to get any brand of oil/lubricant that irks me a bit, even if the other brand will do no harm
My main point though, is that if a dealership is Fiat/Alfa approved they should use products that Fiat/Alfa recommend and/or if they don't, let the customer know - I think it's reasonable to assume that to meet the manufacturer accreditation the dealer used products recommended by that manufacturer.
It should be really simple - 'we generally use Shell lubricants, Sir. Would this be OK or would you prefer to pay £X,Y,Z for Fiat recommended Selenia?'. Job done. It's the assumption that we'll pay approved dealer prices to get any brand of oil/lubricant that irks me a bit, even if the other brand will do no harm