Service anywhere without losing your warranty

In October 2003, EU legislation known as the Block Exemption Regulations 1400/2002 (BER) changed the way cars may legally be serviced and repaired under manufacturer's guidelines, giving motorists the freedom to choose who provides professional mechanical care for cars still covered by a manufacturer's warranty, without needing to use a franchised dealer.

A standard warranty for a new car runs between two and five years, giving peace of mind should mechanical faults occur, such as air conditioning failure. Motorists can now use any garage of their choice to service their cars without invalidating the manufacturer's warranty, subject to certain conditions.

Independent repairers can carry out normal maintenance and repair services during a vehicle's warranty period without invalidating the warranty conditions, provided the service follows the manufacturer's servicing schedules and is recorded as such, and that parts used are of appropriate quality and recorded as such. This means motorists are free to benefit from the competitive pricing and individual service offered by their local independent garage.