New car 2nd service -- to dealer or not?

April 6, 2011 9:19 AM

Should I take a new Nissan Versa for 2nd service to a dealer or to a nearby mechanic?

Mrs. thewildgreen's new Nissan Versa is really overdue for its 2nd service (~7k miles / 9 months now). The 1st service (oil change / inspection) was done by a nearby mechanic shop that has a good reputation. Now I'm wondering if we should go back there for the 2nd service or take it to the dealer. I feel the dealer might be better because they are more experienced with these vehicles and their common problems. On the other hand, the nearby meachic is... well, nearby (while the dealer is pretty far and inconvenient). Where should I take it for service?

posted by thewildgreen to Travel & Transportation (6 answers total)

I would take it to the dealer. The first few service intervals are critical for new cars to identify problems that can become bigger ones if left unchecked. The dealer's techs will be very familiar with the service and inspection procedure, and any common problems with your particular model including recalls and manufacturer bulletins. You can also be sure they have all the diagnostic equipment and tools needed for the job.

You also want to make sure you're taking advantage of your warranty period and getting any necessary work done.
posted by Capa at 9:29 AM on April 6, 2011

The guy doing an oil change at the dealer is not going to be a highly experience service tech. He's going to be the same level of oil change jockey you'd get anywhere else. However, most dealers are fairly competitive on oil changes these days so if it makes you feel better go to the dealer. Just don't expect "better" service from them.
posted by COD at 9:54 AM on April 6, 2011

Take it to the independant shop. Versa's are not complicated cars with any big issues or maintenance requirements. They are basic get around town cars and any competent mechanic will be able to check it out. In reality on this kind of car if it was going to have any big problem like untightened bolts or such it would show up pretty damn quick. if you have gotten to 7k with no issues you are good for a long time most likely. It is WAY more important to get the maintenance done than get it done by the person with the dealership patch on his sleeve. I feel differently about something like a porsche or BMW or even lexus/infiniti, they are more complicated cars with a different maintenance and service needs. A versa is a great little car but it ain't a special needs car.
posted by bartonlong at 10:14 AM on April 6, 2011

Response by poster: Thanks for everyone's input! I think I'll follow Dasein's suggestion of taking the car to the dealer for the even numbered services (at least until the warranty is active). Going to the dealer a couple of times a year seems not too difficult.
posted by thewildgreen at 4:19 PM on April 6, 2011

If you bought a newer car that means you wanted something that is lower mileage, quality and will last. Take it to the dealer because you care about it's longevity. If you want something that you can jus take to a local wrench turner then buy something out of warranty and higher on miles
posted by zombieApoc at 4:22 PM on April 6, 2011

There is nothing better about dealer service, and the only thing special about it is higher prices. Nearer nearly always equals cheaper.
posted by Lizzle at 10:13 AM on April 7, 2011