New car servicing

[heybridge1]

Do I have to take my 1 year old Citroen Picasso to a Citroen dealer for its first service? I have a local garage that will be cheaper but don't want to invalidate my warranty or terms of the HP agreement - any ideas?

[BillyNoMates]

Providing the servicing is done in accordance with the Citroen service schedule, and using genuine Citroen parts then you will be fine.

It's been through the courts - don't know the details - but a precendent has been set to allow the use of independent dealerships in exactly the circumstances you describe.

[gastwo]

I asked the same thing at our VW dealers regarding my wifes car, and Volvo main dealer for mine. Both reluctantly agreed with BillyNoMates answer!
Our local garage charge �25 per hour as against �60 from the two main dealers...! Guess where I go...

[BillyNoMates]

Well I found a very good independent dealer some years ago. Genuine parts always used and as has been said, a significant reduction in the hourly labour charge.

I personally feel that if you find yourself a good specialist on your make of vehicle you are on to a winner. Less reliance on computer diagnostics and more genuine knowledge/experience.

[oldhamfan]

Bear in mind the resale value as well though. If you don't plan to keep the car long it may be better to bite the bullet and pay for dealer service.

If I was looking at two identical Picassos, I would go for the one that was serviced at the dealers over the one serviced at Terry's Autos every time, even if it was slightly more expensive.

[maviscoull]

get your local garage to service it and use genuine citroen parts. all you need to do is attach the reciept for the parts to your service book and get the garage to stamp it.

[david1702198]

the garage you use must also be vat registered.