Hi all,

As per the title really; I have a 56 plate 2.0TFSI vRS due for its 2nd service (1 year warranty left). I have it booked in with DSB in Nottingham but now wonder if it should really go somewhere like Farmers instead?

Anyone?

I'd go with who you trust more.

The only time I've had dealings with Skoda servicing so far was the PDI. and they made a pigs ear of that. I've got free servicing fort the first 3yr but I'll be back to the small independent garage I trust after that.

I went with Farmers as I still had warranty but when it ends at the end of the year, I will probably try an independant. Would be interested to know of your experience with DBS as they are nearish to me. I have heard decent reports about them.

Farmers seem quite expensive even after I talked them down. Didn't even wash my car either!

I know that people think you need to stay with a franchised dealer for servicing to retain warranties - however I'm pretty sure I'm right in saying that when block excemption came in several years ago you are free to use an independent as long as they use approved parts and follow guidelines then your warranty is intact.

I've heard a few good reports about DSB and will use him - I just popped past the workshop last night and in seemed very small and was in a rough area which just shook my confidence a little - perhaps I'm being daft! It's the quality of workmanship that counts after all. They've been very professional every time I've phoned.

I use the dealers all the time the car is under warranty, then go to a good independent after that.

Having it done at the dealer makes no difference to the warranty.

SUK cant void a valid warranty request if the car has been maintained by a VAT registered garage that used genuine parts to the correct service schedule.

I always use a specialist (who used to be a main dealer, and have 25 years Skoda experience.) There is no problem with warranty and they seem to charge about 2/3rds for the same job. Also they give me a free courtesy car - possibly main dealers do as well though.