Can I have my car serviced outside the dealership where I bought it?
2 Answers
You can have your car serviced outside the dealership where you bought it. Car owners have the right to choose their own maintenance service providers. If the car is serviced outside the dealership during the warranty period, it will not affect the warranty service. However, it is important to keep all maintenance receipts and relevant service records when servicing elsewhere, so that if major issues arise later, the dealership cannot shirk responsibility. The purpose of car maintenance is to keep the vehicle clean, ensure normal technical conditions, eliminate potential hazards, prevent faults, slow down deterioration, and extend the vehicle's lifespan. Modern car maintenance mainly includes servicing the engine system, transmission system, air conditioning system, cooling system, fuel system, power steering system, and more.
As a veteran driver with ten years of experience, I can tell you it's absolutely fine not to service your car at the dealership where you bought it. The vehicle is your property, and you have the freedom to choose where to maintain it. The key is to ensure that standard-compliant engine oil and parts are used during maintenance, and to keep detailed records. The Three Guarantees Law allows you to service your car at other qualified repair shops without voiding the warranty, but if issues arise, you'll need to provide maintenance receipts to prove compliance. I often service my car at a familiar repair shop, saving at least 30% of the cost. Dealerships sometimes push unnecessary extras like air conditioning cleaning or additives, which aren't really needed. I recommend doing the first service at the dealership to establish a record, then switching to a more affordable place afterward. Regularly checking your car's condition is more important—as long as maintenance is timely, your car will stay in top shape. Don't be intimidated; make bold decisions.
