where to get the oil changed in my car since it's under extended warranty?

I bought a car with an extended warranty. It doesn't cover oil changes but the dealer is encouraging me to take it to their servicing department for the oil change (cost = $270 for oil change and inspection of brake pads, hoses, tires, etc.). They're saying that if I go to an unauthorized mechanic and the person makes a mistake that damages anything, it'll void the warranty. Anyone have thoughts on the pros and cons of going to the dealer v. my local mechanic (who I'm assuming would be cheaper)?

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asked on Jul 11, 2008

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Wow, $270 should buy about seven or eight oil changes.

I love Nine Minute Oil & Lube in Palo Alto. I've been going to them for 35 years and they've never "made a mistake that damages anything."

See my review at http://www.mobspin.com/rating/blog/EkfDf-WrlhI

#1 - posted on Jul 13, 2008 (5:31 am)

Katherine, this is often a marketing ploy to increase customer stickiness. Your warranty should be good at any authorized dealer, including less threatening ones. For most cars, an oil change performed at an ordinary JiffyLube-type chain will be fine.

Two tricky situations are (1) some dealers really will no longer honor the warranty if they believe that "somebody else screwed up the car," e.g., made aftermarket modifications, broke something during an oil change - this is what they threateningly call "void the warranty"; and (2) an oil change can actually be complicated and beyond the skills/trust of a basic oil change shop for a very sophisticated and valuable modern car - I have yet to see a Lamborghini at a Pep Boys!

#2 - posted on Jul 13, 2008 (10:31 am)

Thanks Brian. Good to know that the price the dealer's service department seems out of line to you too. I'm going to call the mechanic I usually use and see what advice he has.

#3 (reply to #1) - posted on Jul 15, 2008 (4:23 pm)

Thanks Lonnie. In the end convenience might be what finally makes the decision for me since the dealer said they can't give me a loaner car which would mean I'd be stranded up in San Mateo. The local mechanic I've gone to in the past drives a BMW so I'm thinking I'll give him a call and see what he says.

#4 (reply to #2) - posted on Jul 15, 2008 (4:26 pm)