Car Warranties And Non Dealer Parts
Friday, 30. September 2011
Most people know that they can now have their cars and commercials serviced and maintained at no franchised garages and still retain the warranty on the vehicle. However, I have always suggested that customers who choose to have servicing carried out by non franchised dealers ask the garage to use manufacturer own parts. I say this as I don’t want customers to end up in arguments with the dealer over a warranty item that might be linked to a part that was fitted.
I shouldn’t worry as the rules are quite clear that the service and parts fitted must conform to the standards set by the manufacturer and as long as the garage obtains his spares from a reputable independent parts supplier you shouldn’t be worried.
According to the Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) the cost savings could be up to 40%. Large fleets have started looking into this as many have always insisted upon manufacturer parts being fitted such as break pads/discs, cam belts and batteries.
With cost savings being the order of the day they are now looking into this as a way of making substantial cost savings, you could also. I have even been told that like some supermarket ‘own brands’ they are effectively the same product simply put into a different box.
On a point of safety I saw a TV programme not so long ago which highlighted the illegal supply of second rate car parts sold in what looked like original packaging. Beware of garages who may use these parts as some are positively dangerous. By Graham Hill
