Free choice of workshop: Does the warranty remain valid?
The question often arises as to whether a brand-affiliated or independent garage should be commissioned for service and repair work on the car. Often unknown: «independent» garages are often cheaper, but just as good - and the warranty remains intact.
While the average age of a car in Switzerland was 7.4 years in 2000, the cars currently on our roads are already around 10.5 years old. In view of this, the quality of workshop work and service is more important than ever when it comes to servicing and repairing cars.
The cost of servicing and repairs is also important in view of generally rising prices. The question arises: do I have my car serviced by a brand representative or an independent garage? For older vehicles, it should remain affordable.
Brand representation versus independent garage
Of course, brand-specific workshops have their advantages. The staff are sometimes more familiar with brand new vehicles in particular. The disadvantage, however, is that they are often further away geographically and the prices are generally higher - both for the work and often for parts. And sometimes you don't have a choice: leasing contracts often include a brand workshop commitment.
When it comes to recalls or rectifying production faults, the brand dealer is also the right choice, as in these cases the car brand can also specify where the workshop work is to be carried out. What is often unknown, however, is that unlike in the past, car brands are not allowed to refuse the warranty for servicing and repairs if the vehicle is serviced or repaired in an independent garage.
Warranty is guaranteed
In other words, if an independent garage works according to the manufacturer's instructions, the warranty remains fully intact. This is because these independent garages are also able to offer the same service and parts quality at often lower prices, even with the latest vehicles or the latest technologies such as electric drive.
It is particularly advisable to contact an independent garage that is connected to the major networks. Like carXpert, for example. The networks are backed by major providers in the aftermarket sector (in the case of carXpert, the Swiss company Derendinger). This gives partner garages access to all technical documentation, original spare parts and, for example, data access, which is necessary for complex work today. In addition, the networks can access a particularly wide range of parts for older cars after the warranty has expired, which enables the same quality at even lower costs - so that in the end you always drive safely but still save money.
The carXpert network
The name says it all: Behind the name carXpert is a Switzerland-wide network of over 280 independent quality garages and over 40 independent body stores - all experts for your car. In these multi-brand garages, every car feels at home with the qualified specialists because it is serviced and repaired according to the manufacturer's instructions with original equipment parts - guaranteed to keep the warranty! The premium network offers the highest level of expertise and service quality as well as, for example, assistance and used car warranties. The carXpert partners are also ideal contacts for topics such as vacation checks and starter batteries! Many offer a vacation check at reasonable fixed prices. This usually involves checking the starter battery. If a replacement is required carXpert partner a wide range from economy to high-tech premium batteries. carxpert.ch
*The content was created by the Autosprint editorial team in collaboration with carXpert. Cars of all makes are welcome in the carXpert garages and body shops.
