As an independent workshop owner, we are occasionally asked by customers and vehicle owners if servicing their vehicle with us will void their new car warranty. The answer is determined by whether the warranty is provided by the manufacturer or by an aftermarket extended warranty plan provided by the dealer. However, in the case of a manufacturer’s warranty, we can confidently assure you that your vehicle’s manufacturer’s warranty will remain valid, as will your protection under the Consumer Guarantees Regime.
Keep reading to find out more!
Vehicle manufacturer warranties
In addition to consumer guarantees provided by the Australian Consumer Law (ACL), vehicle manufacturers and dealers often provide a manufacturer’s warranty. A manufacturer’s warranty is a promise to the consumer that the vehicle will be free of defects for a specified period and that any defects will entitle the consumer to repair or other compensation.
As independent car mechanics who perform new car servicing in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule, we must adhere to the following minimum essential requirements:
- Use quality spare parts from reputable suppliers.
- Service in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.
- Staff are trained, supervised and qualified.
- Fluids and lubricants meet or exceed the manufacturer’s specifications.
The manufacturer’s warranty will remain valid as long as the auto shop services the vehicle in accordance with these requirements.
Extended warranties offered by dealers
On new vehicles, dealerships may offer their own ‘extended’ warranties. These typically take effect when the manufacturer’s warranty expires. Although these warranties CANNOT REPLACE the manufacturer’s warranty or consumer guarantees, imposing conditions may be permitted. If a dealer’s warranty includes exclusive requirements, an independent repairer may void the warranty if they service the vehicle. Many workshop owners provide their own extended warranties or, alternatively, prefer to educate customers on the drawbacks that may be associated with dealership warranties.
Do we stamp the logbook?
Yes, at Ultimate Auto Care we always stamp the logbook as this is a requirement of most new car warranties. In certain vehicles, the logbook includes a box indicating that it should be stamped by an ‘authorised dealer.’ The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has confirmed that, even if a logbook is labelled in this manner, an independent repairer may sign or stamp the relevant page of the customer’s service logbook after an auto service. This is done after the service has been completed and will not affect the manufacturer’s warranty.
The benefits of opting for an independent workshop
There are many reasons why you might choose an independent mechanic over a dealership. Here are just a few:
- Independent mechanics will charge less than dealerships.
- They will almost always provide more personalised service.
- Independent auto shops are often more convenient than dealerships, as they typically have longer hours and offer services such as loan cars and pick-up/drop-off.
- You can speak directly with the technician who worked on your vehicle.
- You develop a Personal and Direct relationship
- The service quality is likely to be of equal, or even higher quality, than that of a dealership.
- You are supporting a local business when you choose an independent mechanic.
- Since they work on all makes and models of vehicles, independent mechanics frequently have a broader knowledge than dealership personnel.
- Quite often parts used by independent workshops carry a more extended warranty period.
Ultimate Auto Care is a family-owned and operated business in Brisbane, with auto repair shops located throughout the metro area. We have been providing honest and dependable auto repair and services to our local communities for years. Contact us today to schedule a logbook service or repair and let us help you keep your car running smoothly.
