Did you know that you get to choose where your vehicle is serviced, maintained and repaired, at competitive prices.

When it comes to investing in a new vehicle, it's a substantial commitment that many people make. As a responsible owner, it's important to ensure that your investment is protected through effective care and maintenance. Although some may believe that simply washing the exterior and detailing the interior are enough, there's much more to it than that. Here is some sound advice from South Lake Automotive in South Lake.

One crucial aspect of caring for your new car is regular maintenance. This includes getting routine oil changes, tire rotations, and tune-ups to ensure your vehicle is operating efficiently and smoothly.

There are a few other things to consider, such as who is the best choice to service your car.

If you're keen on maintaining the longevity and pristine condition of your newly acquired vehicle, then you'd be well-advised to adhere to the strict requirements laid out by the manufacturer. To ensure that your vehicle runs like a dream, it is of paramount importance that it is serviced regularly by a seasoned and accredited professional such as South Lake Automotive in South Lake.

But that's not all, dear motorist. Any services must be provided by a suitably qualified or automotive technician and should be carried out in strict compliance with the manufacturer's stipulations. What's more, it's essential to utilise top-tier components from a trusted supplier and fluids that satisfy the manufacturer's exacting specifications. This is not just to look after your new car, but because if these four requirements are met you will also preserve the manufacturers warranty.

Did you know that you get to choose which mechanic should service your new car without voiding either the manufacturers warranty or your rights under the Consumer Guarantee

In accordance with Australian consumer rights, car owners are free to select a reputable service provider to maintain or repair their vehicles without any obligation to return to the dealership of purchase. So long as the servicing is carried out to the exact specifications prescribed by the manufacturer, with high-quality parts and fluids used and the job completed by an accredited professional, your car’s warranty will remain in effect. This affords vehicle owners a degree of flexibility in choosing the right person for the job. In essence, you retain full autonomy to determine who best suits your specific car service or repair needs.

Repco branded parts & products are manufactured to stringent Repco quality standards, and are covered by the Repco Nationwide Warranty, giving you added protection. South Lake Automotive will also only ever use fluids and lubricants that meet the specifications of the manufacturer of the new car.

When it comes to maintaining your new car, it is essential to be well-informed of the differences between statutory, manufacturer and extended warranties. These variations could determine whether or not you end up making the right selection. You should always bear in mind that, under the Australian Consumer Law (ACL), you are entitled to statutory protection in the form of a Consumer Guarantee.

This means that you are automatically covered by a statutory warranty, which is provided to safeguard your consumer rights. Unlike manufacturer and express warranties, the statutory warranty is non-negotiable, and it cannot be invalidated by any other warranty. The manufacturer warranty is offered by the car manufacturer, while the express warranty is offered by the car dealer.

A lack of disclosure requirements on car dealers at the point of sale regarding these contracts can easily lead the consumer into making a choice to be bound by a long term contract without access to all of the details needed to make a properly informed decision.

When concluding a deal to purchase a new car, it is crucial to exercise caution regarding certain new car dealers who may try to sell additional “express” or “extended” warranties, often offering them free of charge. It is important to note that such warranties may include a range of restrictions or provisions that differ from the norm. Hence, it is imperative to conduct extensive research before agreeing to any such contracts as they may not provide significant benefits beyond the basic statutory rights of consumers. Furthermore, such agreements may bind buyers to long-term commitments with specific car dealerships, thereby limiting their flexibility and options.

As a prudent consumer, it is essential to be aware of the potential risks and downsides associated with purchasing these so-called ‘bonus' warranties.

When entering into contracts regarding servicing and repairing your new vehicle at the dealership, it is improbable that any warnings will be provided with regards to the possible adverse effects that may arise. The factors that may lead to a negative experience include, but are not limited to, the distance that may need to be travelled in order to access the service location, or the extended waiting periods that may be encountered due to a limited number of mechanics or service centres.

Check out our frequently asked questions below for more information on New Car Service and warranties. If you need to know more, the AAAA website and ACCC website have some great information too.