In Brief
The factory warranty remains valid even if the car is serviced outside a dealership. The conditions are that the service is performed according to the manufacturer’s service schedule, uses parts and fluids that meet quality requirements, and is recorded in the service history. This is based on the EU’s Block Exemption Regulation.
New car buyers often hear that the warranty requires servicing at a dealership. That is not true. The EU’s competition rules, i.e., the so-called Block Exemption Regulation, guarantee that a car can also be serviced by an independent repair shop. The manufacturer cannot tie the warranty to who performs the service.
Three Conditions for Warranty Validity
- Service according to the manufacturer’s program. Perform all tasks specified by the manufacturer for the given mileage and age interval, no less.
- Correct parts and fluids. The oil must meet the manufacturer’s requirements (e.g., VW 504.00 or MB 229.52), and the quality of the parts must correspond to the original ones.
- Record in service history. The service is recorded in the service book or the manufacturer’s electronic system, if the repair shop has access to it, and receipts are kept.
When these conditions are met, the service is equivalent to one performed by a dealership in terms of warranty validity.
What Is Not Included Here?
Warranty repairs are always performed by a manufacturer-authorized service center. If a defect covered by the factory warranty occurs in the car, it will be repaired at a dealership at the manufacturer’s expense. The same applies to manufacturer recalls. An independent repair shop handles maintenance and wear parts, while a dealership handles warranty defects. These are not contradictory.
Manufacturer’s extended warranties or service agreements are a different matter, and they may have their own terms. If your car has one, read the terms or ask us, and we’ll review them together.
Why Service Elsewhere?
Usually because of the price. The work is the same, but the hourly rate and parts markup differ. Many also appreciate being able to speak directly with the mechanic working on their car and hearing what was actually done.
We perform services for all common brands, such as Volkswagen, Skoda, Audi, Toyota, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Volvo. You can find brand-specific notes on the brand pages.
Remember These When Booking a Service
- Bring your service book or let us know if the history is electronic (electronic service book).
- Provide the odometer reading and the date of the previous service.
- Ask what is included in this service interval. For example, the timing belt or brake fluid might be due.
- Keep the receipt showing the work performed and products used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the car’s warranty remain valid if I service it outside a dealership?
Yes. The warranty remains valid when the service is performed according to the manufacturer’s program, uses parts and fluids that meet requirements, and is recorded in the service history.
What is the basis for this rule?
The EU’s Block Exemption Regulation, which guarantees independent repair shops the right to service cars without voiding the manufacturer’s warranty.
Who repairs warranty defects?
Defects covered by the warranty and recalls are repaired by a manufacturer-authorized dealership.
How much does scheduled maintenance cost at BX-Motors?
Scheduled maintenance starts from €149. The price depends on what the manufacturer has specified for your car for this service interval.
Is the service recorded in the service book?
Yes, every scheduled maintenance is recorded in the service history.
Also read: Why it’s important to service your car regularly · How to choose a car repair shop
