Hands covering a toy SUV to illustrate warranty coverage

When you buy a new car, it almost always comes with a warranty. Most people know that. Understanding that you have a warranty is great, but knowing about what voids it and what doesn’t is arguably more important. What most people don’t know is that you can go anywhere to get repairs on your vehicle in order to keep the warranty valid. Keeping that in mind can save you a lot of time, money, or both.

That Doesn’t Mean Just Anybody Can Service Your Car

While you don’t need to keep going back to the dealership where you got the car, it probably isn’t a good idea to have your buddy do your oil changes. Dealerships can and will void a warranty if you do not have proof that the car was serviced. Make sure you have documented proof of services rendered each time you take your car somewhere to get work done. Your goal is to save time and money, but you should also make sure your warranty is honored if needed. Do not make it easy on the dealerships to void it—keep your receipts.

On top of that, it would be ideal to understand what was done to your car, at least at a basic level. Ask the mechanic to have the services and pricing explained to you. It should also be noted that you should trust whoever you employ to work on your car. Although it is permissible to have your car treated anywhere, damage to the car due to a faulty repair job can void the warranty. If shoddy work on your car causes engine failure or even an accident, that will almost certainly void your warranty. Make sure that you are getting quality work done.

Getting Serviced at a Repair Shop Is Not Only Allowed, But It Is Also in Your Benefit

Dealerships know that their customers want to keep their warranty, and they know that most customers don’t know what that requires. There’s an implication that you must get serviced with them, and they like it that way even though it’s not true. Because dealerships know that you most likely think you have to get serviced with them, they are able to mark up the cost of parts for your car. They also don’t have to worry about their standards as much, since they don’t think they have to worry that you’ll go and get a repair somewhere else. Because of these factors, it is likely best to at least look at other places before assuming that you will go to the dealership you bought your car from for maintenance. Your dealership might be far away, charge more, and not do as good of a job. It is in your best interest to shop around.
Final Verdict

Non-dealership service will not invalidate your warranty. Keep your receipts, understand what work was done, make sure whatever shop you take your car to does good work, and you will be fine. At the end of the day, where your car gets serviced is up to you.

Looking for a reliable auto shop in Buda TX? Consider contacting Reliable Automotive today! 
CategoryAuto Repair

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