Hi,

After much leg work and consideration, the wife and I finally bought a used Octavia Ambiante Estate a few months ago. Given that this is the first car I've ever owned, I must admit it was pretty cool driving away with it. I think I can say I've been pretty happy with it so far. I do have a couple of things I wouldn't mind getting looked at under warranty (small squeeks, etc.), but maybe I'll go into that in another post.

The car is an 03 reg. and with about 15K miles under it's belt, I wasn't too surprised when the servicing indicator came on not too long ago (under variable service). At this mileage, I presume I should expect to have the "inspection service" done and not just a simple oil change?!

I read in a few posts here some mentions of using Seat and/or VW dealers to do the work, but must admit I'm a bit concerned about maintaining what's left of my warranty. I know I probably shouldn't, but dunno... happy to be told I'm being silly. Until told otherwise, I think I intend to stick with an authorised Skoda dealer.

Anyway, getting to the main point, I would appreciate hearing about peoples experiences with dealers in the Maidenhead area. I did have a look at the reviews section, but they're either not listed or haven't been reviewed. I wouldn't mind hearing about the closer ones: Browns (High Wycombe), Whitequay (Reading) and Camberley Service Centre (Surrey). I promise I'll post a review after I get the work done.

So how much should I expect to pay for this?! Are the spark plugs typically changed at this mileage level? I'm also wondering about the tyres. What are peoples thoughts on exchanging the front with the back to balance out tyre wear?! (there is a noticeable difference) Anything else I should expect or look out for?!

Cheers,

Paul

can't Hi and welcome what engine is in your Octy? Sorry I can't help with your dealer questions , but I am sure there is someone round here who can. It is a good idea to keep the dealer servicing up to keep your warrenty safe, especially as the car is so young. Swapping tyres front to back is recommended by some however personally I don't as I dislike the thought of spending out on 4X new ones once they are all fully worn

I use Browns in HW - friendly bunch and normally have a courtesy car if you book in advance and ask nicely

I bought my vRS from Browns in High Wycombe and will be going back there to get a couple of issues sorted under warranty next week so I will let you know how I get on.

As for Whitequay in Reading... when I wanted to order my vRS back in October I walked into Whitequay said "I am interested in ordering an Octavia vRS" I got told "They don't make them anymore".... so I told them that "Yes they are still available" and I got the same response. Obviously, didn't want to sell a car that day :thumbdwn:

So, called Browns the next day and had the car on order within the hour

Thanks for the feedback guys.

Alex: It's a basic 1.6 petrol engine. Must seem quite puny to the vRS owners , but its fine for our needs. About the tyres... good point. I'll consider it.

Wayne: Thanks, I'd like to hear about your experience with Browns. I think I'll give them a call in the morning to check pricing and availability.

Cheers,

Paul