Buying a prestige or European car often comes with one big warning from the dealer: “You must service with us, or you’ll risk your warranty.”
This is one of the most persistent myths in the automotive industry – and it’s costing Australian drivers unnecessary money.
The reality? You can service your car at a trusted independent workshop, keep your warranty intact, and enjoy better value and service.
Busting the dealer servicing myth
Under Australian Consumer Law, you can service your car wherever you like – provided the work is completed by a qualified mechanic who uses quality parts, approved fluids, and follows the manufacturer’s service schedule.
Dealers cannot legally refuse a warranty claim just because your service was completed outside their network. What matters is the quality and compliance of the work, not where it was performed.
What about extended manufacturer warranties?
Many dealerships offer extended warranties beyond the standard coverage period, often marketed as ‘essential’ for ongoing peace of mind. But here’s what you need to know:
- Extended warranties are optional. You don’t have to purchase them.
- An extended warranty cannot override your rights under Australian Consumer Law. Even without an extended warranty, you may still be entitled to repairs for faults considered unreasonable for the age, value, or condition of your car.
Always read the fine print, and ask what the warranty provides beyond what you’re already entitled to under law.
Are you sure it won’t void my warranty?
If you’re worried that taking your new car to an independent auto mechanic will void your new vehicle warranty, you’re not alone. The Australian Consumer and Competition Commission (ACCC) found that 32% of consumers who take their new car to an authorised dealer service centre do so under the misconception that dealership servicing is mandatory under manufacturer warranty.
The ACCC and consumer advocate Choice have independently established that many dealers fail to clearly explain protections under Australian Consumer Law to buyers, and in some cases have explicitly failed to comply with the law verbally or by misrepresentation in logbooks and dealer stamps.
If you’ve signed up for an extended warranty (a product that comes into effect after the expiry of your standard manufacturer warranty), read the terms of the agreement carefully and keep in mind that commission-based remuneration in dealership networks can be a stronger incentive to sell extended warranties than benefits to consumers.
What about cost?
Those capped-price offerings might seem appealing, but large dealer overheads and narrow sales margins apply upward pressure on the costs of servicing. In fact, Deloitte’s Dealership Benchmark overview for 2025 suggests that less than 10% of high performing Australian prestige dealers’ profits come from new car sales, with close to 70% of profits coming from servicing alone.
As an independent operator, we have the freedom to offer competitive quotes for servicing. We pride ourselves on doing our homework on costs and providing the best deal and highest quality of service. We’re transparent about our costs and process and will keep you informed at every step, talking your language, plain and simple.
Why choose an independent specialist like Cox Auto?
At Cox Auto, we provide dealership-level expertise – minus the inflated costs – with a personal touch. For us, servicing your vehicle isn’t just about ticking a box – it’s about keeping your car running efficiently, extending its lifespan, and preventing expensive issues down the road. With us, you’ll get:
Logbook-compliant servicing
We follow your manufacturer’s service schedule and use Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) or equivalent parts to protect your warranty and vehicle performance.
European and prestige car expertise
BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen and more – we know these cars inside out.
Transparent pricing
Clear quotes. No hidden fees. No unnecessary up-sells. Just honest service and advice in plain language.
Quality workmanship
Our skilled technicians use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and premium parts, with all work backed by a 12-month guarantee.
Customer care that goes beyond the basics
From free WiFi and coffee to complimentary loan cars, we make car servicing easy, convenient, and stress-free.
Why not just stick with the dealer?
Dealers often promote ‘exclusive expertise’ and ‘genuine parts,’ but independent specialists like Cox Auto have access to the same service information, parts, and diagnostic tools – often delivering more value and a better experience.
The difference? Lower costs, greater flexibility, and a service relationship built on trust.
Ready to service smarter?
Your warranty is safe.
Your consumer rights are protected.
And your prestige vehicle deserves expert care without inflated dealership pricing.
Ready to service smarter and keep your warranty intact? Book your service today.
