Hi Guys,

My punto is due its service in the next few weeks. Im aware of the EU rules that state dealers cant tie you down to having to use them to maintain the warranty, but im still a little nervious as there does seem to be some conflicting views out there on this. An independent is so much cheaper or even kwik fit is bargin compared to the fiat dealer - can anyone offer any advice, share previous experience of this ?

Cheers !

00042213 said:

Hi Guys,

My punto is due its service in the next few weeks. Im aware of the EU rules that state dealers cant tie you down to having to use them to maintain the warranty, but im still a little nervious as there does seem to be some conflicting views out there on this. An independent is so much cheaper or even kwik fit is bargin compared to the fiat dealer - can anyone offer any advice, share previous experience of this ?

Cheers !

Click to expand...

Kwik-fit :shakehead:

Quality VAT registered Independent is fine using original or equivalent quality parts and fluids. Its choice, I dont use a main dealer, didnt since they quoted me £480 for my 2nd Service.
I've now done 55,000 miles and had a re-map at 32,000 miles.
Drawback is that dealers can do software updates at the same time, re-set the service indicator and you may get less hassle with any service related warranty claim in the future.
I had no such concerns with my dealer who honoured my warranty several times even though they never saw my car after the 1st service (except for warranty work) which I negotiated for free at purchase.

Check here for a Godd Garage by you and get quotes.

www.goodgargescheme.net

Thanks for the advice - seems the garage down the end of the road has some good feedback. I do very little mileage so paying an arm and leg to the dealer for my first full service (last year i could get away with a low millage one from them) doesnt seem over the top.

00042213 said:

Thanks for the advice - seems the garage down the end of the road has some good feedback. I do very little mileage so paying an arm and leg to the dealer for my first full service (last year i could get away with a low millage one from them) doesnt seem over the top.

Click to expand...

It can be worth doing the service deal with the dealer for a fixed price if you haven't had the car long, but as I said its a choice thing. 1st Service is basically an oil and filter change plus "checks".

My Independent did my 2nd service for £218 all in inc parts & labour compared to £480 demanded by my dealer. Next service I had the fluid changes done etc & cost me £247.