Having just had my new tyres fitted by an indy garage I have used many times previously for servicing, repairs, MOT's, tyres etc...it's got me wondering if I could chance using them to do the next service on the Vrs. It's under warranty until Feb 2010 & I feel I was absolutely ripped off for the last service (initially until I pursued & pursued the Skoda garage to repair obviously wrong things under warranty).

I know they would use genuine parts....but am I asking for trouble if I then need another warranty repair?

I am a little bit away from the next service, last one done around 10k & only 15k coming up on the clock...

I am guessing most folk bite the bullet & stick with the franchised places?

Aslong as they are VAT registered and use Skoda parts then the warranty is valid. As goes getting the work done, the warranty is with Skoda Uk and not the individual dealer, so the dealer is obliged to do the work regardless. But IMHO (and im sure others too) its best to stick with a dealer for potential goodwill if nothing else, they will be more likely to go the extra mile to help you if you pay your servicing fees with them. Then theres the fact that dealer techs have access to the proper diagnostic equipment, software updates, service notices and specific knowledge of the brand. But your choice at the end of the day.

I agree /\

Although your Warranty would technically still be valid, trying to get any work done could be more hassle than its worth.

I'd stick with the Dealer until the Warranty runs out, then find yourself a good Independent.

I lean towards what you say, cos I am scared there will be an issue...but I'll likely once the warranty expires.

If you were buy a car, would you prefer to see main dealer stamps for that marque, or Kiwikfit/joe blogs garages etc in the service book?

For me, full service history during warranty period means seeing Skoda dealer stamps. As a private buyer or dealer come trade in I'd use lack of to know down prices, or walk away.

Accept your point, but when did you last see a dealer check the car even has a service book...never mind a full set of stamps (let alone from a franchised dealer)...they just offer you a crap price anyway !

As a private buyer it's one of the first things I would check (but again not a lot do!)...

Was just curious what people thought & it seems to come down on erring on the side of caution & sticking with Skoda, until at least the warranty expires (& maybe beyond?)...I think I'd better find myself a better dealer then !

It's not just about saving money, it's about the service too.

Moving this on a bit, can you take your car to the local VW garage instead of the Skoda one? and get all the good will under warranty etc with taking it main dealership. The local Skoda one is rubbish and the buying one which is good is longer way from me, the VW outfit is only a few miles away and they seem to have got rep.

James.

Yup, any VAG dealer will do.

However, you may find some VW and Audi dealers more expensive for some things and cheaper for others.

Some parts I've found are cheaper at VW yet the local dealer I tried once was more expensive on servicing.

What about if (touch-wood-not) needs any Warranty work done? Can the VW outfit do it?

James.

Depends on whether affected part(s) are specific to Skoda.