Do I need to service my car at the dealership I bought it from?
Asked by: Prof. Kayden Doyle Jr. | Last update: July 27, 2025Score: 4.6/5 (38 votes)
Do you have to get your car serviced at the dealership you bought from?
Nope, you're not locked into servicing your new car at the dealership. You have options! Here's the deal: While dealerships do offer servicing, you can also choose an independent mechanic or a reputable auto repair shop. Just make sure they use quality parts and follow your car's maintenance schedule.
Should I get my car serviced where I bought it?
If you buy a new car from a dealer it's best to have the dealership do all the service work. The reason is all of the service records are in one place which makes things much easier when repairs etc need to be done.
Do dealerships service used cars before selling?
Repairs: After the inspection, the dealership will make any necessary repairs to the car. This could include replacing worn-out parts, fixing mechanical issues, or performing routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations.
How much does it cost to get your car serviced at a dealership?
The average dealership service visit in 2023 costs $258; a visit to a non-dealer service provider costs an average of $249.
5 Service Scams Car Dealers don't want you to know
Is it worth taking your car to the dealership for maintenance?
Typically, the safest choice when your car needs maintenance or a repair will be the dealership. The mechanics at the dealership will be factory trained specifically for the brand of car you own and will have access to the most up to date diagnostic equipment, tools, and technical information from the manufacturer.
Do dealerships offer free service?
Though many automakers offer some sort of maintenance plan to accompany their warranties, not all of them are free; the specifics vary widely among manufacturers. Free maintenance programs on cars can range from 1 to 5 years long and offer significant benefits.
What not to tell a used car dealer?
- "I Don't Know Much About Cars"
- "My Current Car Is on Its Last Legs"
- "My Lease Is Almost Up"
- "I'm Going to Pay Cash!"
- "I Already Have a Car Loan Lined Up"
- "I Love This Car"
- "I've Never Bought a New Car Before"
What if I found damage on my used car after purchase?
The dealership should fix the damage for you. Don't go to a third party repaid without the consent of the dealer, or else you may have trouble collecting, but make the dealer fix it by being persistent over and over.
Do dealerships clean cars before selling?
Car dealers often deep clean or detail used cars before selling them on their lot. Their efforts cost money, and some dealers disclose additional reconditioning fees ranging from several hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars in some cases. However, this is one of the common dealer fees you don't need to pay.
Do I have to get an oil change at a dealership for a lease?
Not always. But if your lease agreement does have a maintenance stipulation, pay attention. You will need to schedule regular car maintenance, including oil changes, tire rotations and other basic upkeep. Often, you can take this back to the dealership for maintenance.
Should I bring a mechanic to a dealership?
One of the most informative steps you can take before purchasing is to have an independent mechanic check out a used car. According to Nicole Miskelley, PMR Auto & Diesel Repair manager, "Most reputable dealerships allow this, but some may have a salesperson ride along for safety.
How frequently should you get your car serviced?
Car servicing should be done every six months or after clocking 5,000 miles, whichever comes first. Servicing of a car varies depending on different factors, such as the car model, age, make, and mileage. To prevent going to the mechanic occasionally for car repair, you should service your car on time.
Can a dealership refuses to service a car?
A car dealership can refuse to service a car that's 10 days old or 10 years old. It's entirely their discretion. Dealerships can even refuse to perform warranty work for a variety of reasons.
Will changing your own oil void your warranty?
Changing your own oil won't directly void your car manufacturer's warranty. However, the manufacturer won't cover the repairs if you damage your car while trying to change your own oil. If you're going to do your own oil changes, use the type of oil recommended by the car manufacturer.
Do I have to get my car serviced at the dealership to keep warranty in Canada?
You don't need to get your car serviced at your dealership to keep the warranty. Canadians are protected by the Consumer Protection Act which allows them to get their vehicle serviced at any certified repair shop of their choice.
What do I do if a dealership sold me a bad used car in Texas?
Filing a Complaint
For the fastest processing of your complaint, go to the Motor Vehicle Dealer Online Complaint System. Following the directions, provide a copy of the sales contract and other documents you may have received from the dealer. For advertising complaints, please provide a copy of the advertisement.
What do I do if a dealership sold me a bad used car in Washington state?
You can ask the Attorney General's Office for help. Visit www.atg.wa.gov/file- complaint. If you file a complaint, they may be able to mediate your dispute with the car dealer (but only if you and the dealer agree to mediation).
Can a dealership sell you a damaged car?
Dealer sold me a car that was in an accident | What rights do I have? If a car dealership sold you a car that was in an accident or if a dealer sold you a car with structural damage, frame damage, or other substantial damage without disclosing it to you, then you may have a claim under California law.
What is the red flag rule for car dealers?
The Red Flags Rule (the Rule), enforced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), requires automobile dealers to develop and implement a written identity theft prevention program designed to identify, detect, and respond to warning signs—known as “red flags”—that indicate that a customer or potential customer could be ...
How do you beat a car salesman at his own game?
When you contact the dealer you tell the sales person what you will pay and what you want for your trade. This throws them off their game and forces them to work to meet your numbers. This eliminates the back and forth and allows the buyer to quickly decide if this is a dealer they can work with.
What if a car dealer lied to you?
This is illegal and known as fraud or misrepresentation. Consumer protection laws protect you, and you can file a lawsuit with help from an auto fraud attorney. This doesn't apply just to used cars. You can sue for issues with a new car as well.
Do I have to get my car serviced at the dealership to keep the warranty?
You don't have to use the dealer for repairs or maintenance to keep your warranty in effect. In fact, it's illegal for a dealer to deny your warranty coverage because you had routine maintenance or repairs done by someone else.
Is it more expensive to get service at a dealership?
In addition, dealerships pay higher salaries for manufacturer-trained and highly experienced technicians. It is therefore no surprise that you will pay a higher price for their services.