Where for first service?

[PaulWildsmith]

My (or rather the wife's) new a year ago car will be due it's first service in March. Do I go back to Matford, Exeter, where we bought the car (I know others have recommended them in the past), but really we have no"relationship" with them, or much more conveniently to close where we live, Guy Salmon in Bristol?

I imagine the standard will be similar both places and probably the price, so I'm thinking of going local (if for nothing else if I ever have problems that will be better).

Unfortunately the days of being able to have a chat with the tech guy, and the service people knowing me well (usually how exacting I am) are over. It's all glass, chrome and steel in appearance; probably great for company car owner who's not paying nor that interested

I realise I've probably just answered my own question, but nonetheless appreciate other forum members views and opinions.

[Lunar]

I think you maybe have Paul

I was on excellent relations with the service manager when I had an XE (drop off when he got there and not official opening time - free spare bottle of oil, etc.) - not least of all because of a few teething problems! - but you rarely get past the meet and greet bouncer nowadays.

My only suggestion would be to ask to speak to the local service manager - introduce yourself and explain it is your first service and so your ongoing patronage will be based on this experience so it's in his hands, and see what happens.

Be sure to price match first too and keep them keen, if you don't have a service plan in place.

[scm]

That's the benefit of a trusted indepenedent - they rely on reputation and generally don't have the resource to put meet and greeters in your way. And they don't have to pay for impressive steel snd glass showrooms.

[Fez]

Jaguar Harwood are more than happy for you to speak to the technician, you just have to ask the right question. The service advisor will answer regular service questions. So ask a technical question!

[PaulWildsmith]

more advice please: got one quote (says its from JLR service menu) for £373.46

Also took a look at Jaguar service plans (https://www.jaguar.co.uk/owners/servici ... plans.html), and for first 3 years this would cost £1005.

Interestingly, the service plan describes the first service viz:
Engine Oil
Labour Hours - (0.8)
Oil Filter
Washer Fluid

How this can cost £373.46 is beyond me!

The second service also includes brake fluid and interior air filter, 3rd same as 1st; so likely to be even more, so I suppose the service plan amount may be a 'bargain' ...

I appreciate that going independent may be a lot cheaper, but as the car is new I'd like to avoid any potential warranty claim issues by staying in the dealer network.

[Jaguandy]

Find an independent Jaguar specialist that can deal direct with Jaguar for any warranty work even if serviced by them. Works for me.

[scm]

Find an independent Jaguar specialist that can deal direct with Jaguar for any warranty work even if serviced by them. Works for me.

My independent doesn't deal with Jaguar but does insist I take warranty work to the local dealer (he tells me what needs doing!). And I've had no issues getting warranty work done by the JLR dealer (well, I say no issues, but no issues were caused by having the car independently serviced!).

[PaulWildsmith]

thanks for comments. Any suggestions for local indies welcome.

I suppose my experience over last 10 years or more, admittedly with Volvo, is that if issues arise outside of warranty (but not too far) they look kindly - I've had 90% of one bill paid - and having had the car serviced within the dealer network helps this happen.

[Jabbar1971]

Hi. I’ve just purchased a new F Type from a dealer 225 miles away.

So my servicing will be local by Farnell JLR in Guiseley. Phoned them today and got a brilliant 2 year service plan and they will look after car for any warranty/service needs.

[Jaguandy]

Nip up the M4 to Mike Allen near Swindon station.