Service your vehicle with people you trust

By Murray Green

If your vehicle is still under warranty, whether you should take it to a dealership for service largely depends on the terms and conditions of the warranty, as well as your personal preferences.

Review the details of your vehicle’s warranty to understand what is covered and any requirements for servicing. Some warranties may specify that certain repairs or maintenance must be performed by authorized dealership service centres to maintain coverage.

Dealership service centres often have specialized knowledge, training and access to manufacturer-specific tools and diagnostic equipment. This can be beneficial for addressing complex issues or performing warranty-related repairs that require specific expertise.

Dealership service centres typically use Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts, which are designed to meet the exact specifications of your vehicle. Using OEM parts may be a requirement for maintaining warranty coverage, as aftermarket parts may not be covered under the warranty.

Taking your vehicle to a dealership for service ensures that all maintenance and repairs are documented according to manufacturer standards. This documentation can be important for warranty claims and may help preserve the resale value of your vehicle.

Dealership service centres often offer amenities such as loaner vehicles, shuttle services and comfortable waiting areas with Wi-Fi and refreshments. Additionally, dealership service appointments can be scheduled on-line or by phone for added convenience.

While dealership service centres may provide high-quality service and OEM parts, they can sometimes be more expensive than independent mechanics or repair shops. Compare pricing for routine maintenance and repairs to ensure you’re getting a competitive rate.