Warranty coverage and non-authorized service
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Joined: May 2017
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Warranty coverage and non-authorized service
Hi folks!
I'm looking to buy my first (!!) Mercedes, and it'll be a c63s. One that I am looking at has had all the recommended service performed, by (according to the seller) "a good friend who works at a mercedes dealership".
I'm obviously not thrilled with that answer. They documented what was done, but it's basically scratches in a notebook.
My overall question is how particular are MB dealerships with warranty claims when scheduled maintenance is performed by a non-authorized shop? Maybe in a more general sense - if someone has their car serviced at a Big-O... invalidated warranty?
Appreciate any thoughts or experiences you have! thanks!
I'm looking to buy my first (!!) Mercedes, and it'll be a c63s. One that I am looking at has had all the recommended service performed, by (according to the seller) "a good friend who works at a mercedes dealership".
I'm obviously not thrilled with that answer. They documented what was done, but it's basically scratches in a notebook.
My overall question is how particular are MB dealerships with warranty claims when scheduled maintenance is performed by a non-authorized shop? Maybe in a more general sense - if someone has their car serviced at a Big-O... invalidated warranty?
Appreciate any thoughts or experiences you have! thanks!
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2017
Posts: 308
Likes: 95
2024 X5 M60i, 2018 C63S Coupe (sold)
I can't speak firsthand regarding Mercedes-Benz dealers but I can't think of a dealership that would invalidate a warranty simply because you took it to another shop for maintenance. For one thing, it is in the dealership's best interest for the warranty work to be performed since Mercedes (not the dealership) is footing the bill (and paying the dealership) for the work.
The problem with using a third-party shop nowadays is they don't always have access to the systems that are used to update the on-board computers and such and I don't know if the dealership would perform those updates free of charge.
I wouldn't worry about the warranty for basic service like an oil change or brake fluid flush if you are using a shop that you know and trust. It is of paramount importance, however, that they know exactly what parts and specifications to use because if their work does lead to a failure then obviously you are in trouble. You are under no obligation to divulge where prior service was performed.
The problem with using a third-party shop nowadays is they don't always have access to the systems that are used to update the on-board computers and such and I don't know if the dealership would perform those updates free of charge.
I wouldn't worry about the warranty for basic service like an oil change or brake fluid flush if you are using a shop that you know and trust. It is of paramount importance, however, that they know exactly what parts and specifications to use because if their work does lead to a failure then obviously you are in trouble. You are under no obligation to divulge where prior service was performed.
Super Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 882
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From: Oldsmar, FL
2005 E55 Wagon, 2017 C63S Cab, 1986 560SL
Assuming you are in the US, it is illegal for them to invalidate the warranty because you used a third party provider or even parts. It's under the Magnuson-Moss act.
