[Audi A3/S3] 50,000 Service

[Chillihead]

Hi, my service is now due, all but last done by Audi, last by vendor (reputable garage). Should I use local 5 star gagrage (non Audi)? They are happy for me to provide oil, was thinking Halfords fully Synthetic. Any thoughts.

P.S 5 Litres of Fully Synthetic @ £19.99 buy one get one free. Please help, car shouting at me.

[Chillihead]

Please, someone.

[Booster]

I'd go for it! Why pay Audi's extortionate labour rates when you can use a reputable independent? When my last car was out of warranty I had no hesitation about taking it to a local garage. As long as you know they have a good reputation give them a go.

[alexs3]

Hi chilli, i would suggest buying your oil through euro car parts or german and swedish as they will provide the right grade for the vehicle. Beware though some of the oil only comes in litres and is expensive but worth it.

[neo283]

I always go to an independant once the warrenty has ran out. When I took my old 323F into the mazda stealer a couple of years ago, they tried to tell me I needed 2 new anti roll bars - which turned out to be a load of balls. Audi may seem more reputable, but I still trust the local guys more. If they seriously try to screw you over, they're putting their whole business and reputation on the line which is something many don't want to do.

For servicing, I take mine to a VAG specialist who is reputable round these parts. Basically means he's an independant with an Audi manual and a VAG-Com, but at least you can be sure he is putting the right stuff in for you.

I would only stick with Audi of you have a warranty to protect. If you're worried about stamps in your log book, then as long as you keep the repair & servicing bills this would show a more comprehensive history record IMO.