Main Dealer Service Is It Worth It?

[wlaffey2005]

I know this will light a fire.. But is it worth the much higher fee? Is it mainly to do with when you are putting your vehicle up for sale?

Thanks

[Simon_D]

I would say that a Main Dealer service history is a must when selling a car that is less than 3-4 years old. This is purely because it is what the market expects. Beyond that (and if you intend to keep for a long time) it is less important. Once the car is out of warranty a known, good independent is probably a better bet. In my experience most large main dealers treat services like a production line with the work being carried out by the most junior staff. I was shocked by the number of cars that my local Mercedes Dealer services every day.

When it comes to my bikes, I would never let a Tech that I didn't know touch them and often travel to Manchester (from London) to get major work done by a well know independent.

[fjcfarrar]

I know this will light a fire.. But is it worth the much higher fee? Is it mainly to do with when you are putting your vehicle up for sale?

Thanks

As far as the actual work in doing a straightforward service is concerned; you could do it yourself unless completely kack-handed. So a trustworthy independent is fine but just doesn't have the magic dealer stamp that prospective buyers like. I would not like to say if the resale cash advantage is really worth the extra service costs.

Spotting potential problems and understanding any oddities you have noticed is something where familiarity with the car helps and Lexus Dealer service is more likely to have this plus easy access to manufacturer "fixes" for known issues - simply because they see more of what is after all a relatively uncommon car.

[Cue]

Here's a tip for maintenance records when selling...

Take your car to a Lexus service centre for interim services (every other year). That way you will build up a nice collection of manufacturer recommended stamps. The primary service can be done anywhere as it won't kill your pocket.

But selling wise, a local service is far more cost effective. Unless you feel a buyer can chew on the latter and gain kudos for a dealer service?! It's your choice!