Authorized or independent service? Where is it worth repairing a car under warranty and after its expiration?
Machine operation

Authorized or independent service? Where is it worth repairing a car under warranty and after its expiration?

redaction: why did you decide to repair your car in this particular service? The EU directive says that you can choose any service station, especially if the car is no longer under warranty.

Mr Michael: In 2016, I decided to buy a Volvo V60 T3 Momentum, a comfortable station wagon that meets the needs of my family. To be honest, I didn't know about this possibility. (GMO Directive - ed.) and during the warranty period I gave the car to an authorized company service. Always satisfied with the level of service and quality of service. Honestly when it's time for another review (the so-called major service review, August 2022 - ed.) I decided to try to find an alternative.

redaction: What made you look for her?

DINNER: When the car is no longer under warranty, I decided to check the prices and terms at independent services and maybe the repair will be no worse, but cheaper.

R: And yet, in the end, I see that you have decided on the Volvo service ...

DINNER: Yes, because, you see, I called several independent services, including those recommended by friends. The conversation was pleasant, yes, but when it came to the specifics, almost no one could give me a specific answer on how much the technical inspection of my car could cost, there were some amounts, but always with some limits and reservations. I understand this a little, because it is difficult to evaluate the service without even seeing the car, so I chose three services and drove up to them for a more serious conversation. As a result, it turned out that even if the costs turned out to be slightly lower, none of the independent services could provide the service in a time that was acceptable to me.

R: At an acceptable time? And what, such queues?

Evening: Nthe best time I got on an external service is 2-3 weeks. Unfortunately, I can't afford such a long wait. I have my own business, I have to keep track of contacts, orders, fulfill them on time. I also travel a lot, because, of course, we have the Internet, mobile phones, but often it is best to resolve the issue with the performer by arranging a meeting with him. The absence of a car for a long time would be troublesome for me also because I live with my family outside the city, I take my children to school and kindergarten.

R: I take it you weren't offered a replacement car?

DINNER: It was suggested, but you know, when I bought the car, I was undecided about the insurance option that would cover such a service. I had help, of course, but it covered emergencies, collisions, etc. not a replacement car in the event of an inspection. My wife also has a small car, smaller, we will get tired in a few days, but in 2-3 weeks? I couldn't afford it. In addition, there is another problem, our daughter has an allergy problem. Take a ride with her in a replacement car, in which, for example, some fur lover used to ride ... well, you understand.

R: Well, yes, this is a big problem, but have you tried to negotiate a shorter term?

DINNER: I did my best. Unfortunately, despite the fact that almost everywhere the service was very pleasant, the shortest delivery time was still too long for me. I will also say that in one service I was offered that the car could be ready earlier, but at a higher price. It was clear that it was all about money, and whoever had the record would simply be waiting for their car much longer. I don't like these games. It’s good that I didn’t use it, because in the end it would have turned out that I would pay more than at an authorized service, and I’ll still be waiting for a car longer.

R: What date was offered to you at an authorized Volvo workshop? Did you have to wait that long?

DINNER: Due to a large periodic inspection, my Volvo V60 spent 3 days at a car dealership in Puławski. But that's all I was prepared financially with my deeds.

R: Okay, but what about expenses, weren't you afraid of that?

DINNER: Not really, please remember that I had my Volvo serviced at the Dealership from the very beginning because I didn't know I could do otherwise (laughs), but I was already familiar with this service and knew that I could find out the details. immediately after arriving with the car. I just knew what to prepare for. I knew it would be more expensive, but I was able to pay a higher price for a shorter service time, which is key for me. But let me tell you, I was very pleasantly surprised...

R: What surprised you so much?

DINNER During previous visits to the site, we got to know the staff a bit and I shared with Mr. Adam. (Service Specialist, Volvo Consultant - Ed.) My adventures with other services and the search for savings. You know: inflation. As a regular customer, I received promotion. Well, Mr. Adam offered me 40% off labor and 20% off parts. I also found it on this site Lifetime warranty on Volvo parts.

R: And how did it end up? Much more expensive than alternative services?

DINNER: Well, just no! In another service that offered me the shortest terms and service time, I heard an amount of 160 euros. partially deduct VAT). To sum it up, thanks to the much shorter time I was without a car, I still made up the difference at work, thanks to the fact that I could use a full-featured car faster.

R: Mr. Michal, as you know, we would like to share this story with our readers. Can we use your vehicle inspection bill as an illustration? We, of course, anonymize your personal data.

DINNER: Of course, no problem at all.

While the EU directive allows an alternative service to be chosen even during the warranty period, most drivers have become accustomed to the level and pace of authorized service. I am sure that in this case there is no need to check the quality and reliability, because in such places there are strict standards set by the manufacturer. According to a conversation with a Volvo workshop customer, you can also expect discounts, parts warranties and fast car pickup. Prices also do not differ from those that can be found on other sites.

Authorized or independent service? Where is it worth repairing a car under warranty and after its expiration?
Authorized or independent service? Where is it worth repairing a car under warranty and after its expiration?

Add a comment