Ive just bought my first new car and its now due its first service.Ive been quoted �165.Ive been told its an A type service whatevever that means.This is also according to the logbook its first service.Could anyone pleas enlighten on what an A type service is and whether this is a reasonable price.The car by the by is a vauxhall astra life 1.4.
An A type service will more than likely be an intermediate, or small service, basically just checking the vehicle over and changing the oil and oil filter. You should be able to see an exact checklist of all items covered on the service either in your handbook, or ask the dealership to show you. I used to work for a Service Dept and �165 is about right. Should take them about an hour or so.
You dont have to use a main dealer as long as the service replicates the main dealer service and equivalent quality parts are used. Try shopping around.
In May 2007 I bought a brand new but 'preregistered' Fiat Punto Bravo on a '56' plate. I made a reasonable saving on list price but when anniversary of first taxation was due so was the first service. Although the car had only covered about 3 months and 1,500 miles the garage insisted that the service had to be done to stay in warranty. It cost around �200 and all parts stipulated in the schedule were, to my mind, unnecessarily replaced. I was told that the first service had to be carried out by the garage which sold the car but it could be taken to any authorised garage for the second and subsequent services.
The service can be done by anyone. The only stipulation to protect the warranty is that it must be done to the manufacturer's spec and same or equivalent quality parts must be used. I believe manufactureres spec normally states mileage or time. Its possible that your car had already failed this rule which is why the garage insisted on doing the service.