NO is the answer! You are permitted to bring your car to any service facility to have routine maintenance and service performed under the terms of the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act (1975).
In This Article...
Service Intervals
Each of our customers has a maintenance plan that is specifically created for them. Cars are all unique, just like individuals. Based on how they are driven, some cars require different services than others. The purpose of the manufacturer service intervals is to keep the car under warranty. Also, they are written for “standard road conditions (see image below). We are a long way from New England’s “standard road conditions Temperature fluctuations, pollen, sand, filth, dampness, potholes, and bumpy roads are just a few examples of the severe environments we subject our cars to.
We provide maintenance for both new and twenty-year-old vehicles! You may ensure fewer problems throughout the life of your Audi or VW by having us maintain it from the start. Call us or make an online appointment to get started right now.
Do Volkswagen and Audi parts interchange?
Finding the proper parts for your Audi can be difficult and leave you with a lot of questions, whether they are for your brand-new dream car or reliable daily commuter. Should you place an online purchase for parts or visit the dealer directly? What distinguishes Genuine OEM from Generic OEM and Aftermarket? Why do some parts cost so much more than others and some parts cost so little?
Discover the distinctions between genuine OEM, generic OEM, and aftermarket parts by reading on. We’ll also look into our possibilities for where to make purchases.
Genuine OEM Parts
Since most parts are readily available and may be picked up the same day, most customers will first visit an Audi authorized dealership when in need of a part. Although it can seem like the ideal way to get the supplies you need, this approach has a cost. Parts sold by dealers may have up to a 300 percent markup. Additionally, if you require a part right away, the dealership may not always have it in stock and it may take a few days for them to arrive, which defeats the purpose. Because you may use that number to buy the part from an online Audi part vendor for a fraction of the price, dealerships are also very reticent to provide part numbers. Additionally, there are times when they will offer you the wrong component number to prevent you from buying the item elsewhere.
As you can see, the Audi/VW logo and part number are present. The majority of dealerships will request the vehicle’s VIN, which might make retrofitting or making modifications a little more challenging because they can only provide you with part numbers linked to that VIN. This is done to reduce the amount of “wrong parts for that particular car” that are distributed. Despite being totally 100% Genuine OEM, components purchased from a dealer are more expensive. The majority of internet retailers also provide Genuine OEM components, which they directly buy from the dealership and then resell for less money.
Generic OEM Parts
It is safe to claim that the car manufacturer cannot develop and produce every single component for the vehicle when you consider all the parts that go into making up a single vehicle. The majority of the components that make up a car come from many independent producers. The majority of auto manufacturers don’t produce their own filters, electrical parts, or standard maintenance items. At this point, Generic OEM parts are useful. The component numbers and Audi/VW insignia are typically deleted to make the part “brand neutral,” but they are the exact same part that you would find on your car.
The VW/Audi logo has been taken down. The absence of the Audi/VW emblem makes it obvious that this is the exact same product as the Genuine OEM component.
This enables the producer to generate extra parts and market them in the secondary market (usually at a lower cost). Just a few examples of generic OEM producers are Bosch, MANN-FILTER, Hella, and Lemforder. A great technique to save money on parts that would otherwise cost twice as much is to use generic OEM components.
Aftermarket Parts
In the aftermarket market, some parts are available for a fraction of the price.
This is just the same oil level sensor in an aftermarket form. The backing differs from the Genuine or Generic OEM part and does not look like it. Both the fit and the quality are identical.
These are typically made by businesses that are familiar with the brand and make other parts for those vehicles. The business draws a blueprint of a Genuine OEM item after studying one. Different aftermarket parts have different quality levels compared to their genuine OEM prototypes. Some are better, while others are worse. The least expensive parts are usually aftermarket. They are not to be confused with imitations.
Knock-Offs
You want to stay away from these areas. Quality is of the utmost significance when it comes to the parts of your car. Fake and imitation parts are typically produced with inferior materials and manufacturing techniques. They frequently fail early and frequently. The majority are sold without a warranty “as is. Avoid trying to cut costs by purchasing inferior parts for the maintenance of your car as they will end up costing you more in the long run. The phrase “Buying well means buying twice in this case.
Where to buy Audi & VW parts?
It all relies on your needs when it comes to buying parts for your car. The dealer might be your only choice if getting the parts that day is really necessary. Although the price will be higher, bear in mind that the part could not actually be in stock. Finding a trustworthy online shop like Europa Parts, where most items ship the same day and overnight shipping is also an option, would be your best choice if you can wait a day or more.
The lesson here is that you don’t have to spend a fortune on new parts for your cherished Audi.
Is an Audi service required for my vehicle?
Audi dealers adore bragging about their specialized maintenance. However, when it comes to regular maintenance visits, we are all aware of how expensive those Audi dealerships can be.
The dirty little secret is that you don’t need to take your Audi to the dealer for maintenance, repairs, or any other form of service. Although you have a choice as to where you take your automobile for service, the dealership wants you to feel obligated to use them. The truth is that bringing your car to an independent garage will result in superior servicing. Here are several reasons to choose a mobile Audi mechanic over an Audi shop.
They Are Less Expensive
Audi dealerships are upscale establishments. Modern construction and showrooms costing millions of dollars are not self-sustaining. In reality, visits to the service facility generate a sizable profit for Audi dealerships. In actuality, independent Audi mechanics are typically less expensive. They avoid all the expenses associated with maintaining an Audi dealership as a result.
Why should an oil change or tire rotation cost more? An independent Audi mechanic can complete the same task for a lot less money and with outstanding results.
Most Independent Audi Shops Are Interested In Keeping Your Car Running Longer
When you bring your Audi into a dealership, you are essentially treated as a nameless consumer. Independent Audi dealers are unique. These businesses place a strong emphasis on developing relationships with their clients. They take delight in their work and know everyone of their clients by name. If you truly care about your Audi, you should entrust it to mechanics who are motivated to preserve the life of your automobile.
Audi Mechanics Have the Same Tools and Computers as a Dealership and Oftentimes Even More
Audi dealerships are proud of their cutting-edge servicing department. The truth is that a reputable independent Audi shop will have the exact same tools. In fact, some independent Audi repair facilities will go above and beyond by possessing even more sophisticated diagnostic equipment. That’s because the independent Audi dealers are aware that in order to attract customers, they must go above and beyond.
Avoid believing the claims made by Audi dealerships that they are the only ones qualified to service your car. Independent stores also offer excellent Audi service.
Independent Shops Usually Have Audi Mechanics that Know the Brand Better than the Dealership Because They are Seasoned Career Mechanics
You might be surprised to learn that dealership service facilities have high turnover. In other words, it will be fortunate if the same mechanic services your car twice at a dealership. Career technicians who work in independent Audi shops typically serve the same clients year after year. This implies that you will have a single skilled professional that can service your car for many years. Knowing that the same individual is constantly inspecting your Audi’s engine will give you greater peace of mind. They will be able to identify a potential issue right away because they are familiar with your car.
Many Audi Shops Are Enthusiasts and Know Tricks, Tips, Etc. to Get Better Performance or More Life Out of Your Car
Independent Audi mechanics frequently have a passion for the brand. They will therefore be aware of the small hacks and techniques to make the most of your car. You should absolutely take your vehicle to an independent Audi shop for maintenance if you own an Audi S or RS model. You can acquire the edge that you want and can squeeze out some more performance. Even if you don’t drive a high-performance Audi car, independent shops can extend the life of your Audi.
Audi Shops Are Also Better for Out-of-Warranty Models
Have you had your Audi for more than five years? The majority of Audi dealership service departments often work on newer model cars. This indicates that these dealerships might lack the expertise needed to properly service your older model Audi.
Both new and older model Audi vehicles are frequently serviced at independent Audi shops. Your out-of-warranty Audi will be properly handled by them so that it lasts as long as feasible.
Independent Audi Shops Aren’t Going to Try to “Upsell You All the Time
Have you ever had your tires rotated at a dealership and received the “difficult sales pitch for new brakes and tires? Dealerships offer a variety of “The service center has a system in place to try to get every dollar out of each customer who drives in.
You won’t encounter the pushy corporate sales tactics at a local Audi dealership. Instead, you get the service you asked for. The independent Audi mechanic may advise more work depending on what they observe during your service so that you may discuss any potential impending maintenance your car may require, but it will always be in your automobile’s best interests. Unlike Audi dealerships, these independent Audi stores won’t make a hard sell to you.
An Independent Shop Can Be More Nimble When It Comes to Routine Service
Have you ever spent more time than expected at a dealership repair center? Well, delays are usual at dealership service centers since they frequently become overrun with cars.
An independent shop will be more adaptable and able to finish your routine service more quickly. Your time is valuable, and a local store will typically get you back on the road more quickly.
Independent Shops Can Provide Customized Solutions
A 60,000-mile service or a 90,000-mile service are two popular packaged services at an Audi dealership. These packages typically include 20 or more services, the total cost of which might reach the hundreds or even the thousands. However, only half of the services included in the plan might be required for your car.
You can receive specialized servicing at an independent Audi shop that is centered on what’s best for your vehicle, not what’s best for the dealership’s coffers.
Independent Shops Are Community Based
When you visit an Audi dealership, you are dealing with a large automaker that is only concerned with making money. Someone from your neighborhood owns an independent garage. These independent Audi dealerships want to turn a profit, but they also want to be respected in the neighborhood. This implies that you will receive individualized servicing from an independent Audi dealership.
For instance, you will have to spend about two minutes on hold with an automated service that instructs you to “press 4 for parts” if you call an Audi dealership. An actual live person is more likely to answer the phone and respond to your questions in an independent store.
Do you think Volkswagen owns Audi?
Ten brands from five different European nations make up the Group: Audi, Lamborghini, Bentley, Porsche, Ducati, KODA, SEAT, and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. The Volkswagen Group also has a large number of additional brands and business divisions, including financial services. Volkswagen Financial Services includes leasing, leasing for customers and dealers, banking, insurance, and fleet management services.
The Volkswagen Group is laying the groundwork for the biggest change process in its history with its NEW AUTO – Mobility for Generations to Come Group strategy and future program: the realignment of one of the best automakers to become a leading provider of sustainable mobility on a global scale. To do so, the Group will change its core automotive business, which will include, among other things, the introduction of another 30 or more fully electric vehicles by 2025 and the expansion of battery technology and autonomous driving as new key businesses.
Should I have my car serviced at Audi?
According to your schedule, servicing your Audi at regular intervals will ensure its performance and longevity. If you decide to sell your Audi in the future, it will also boost its resale value. Generally, we advise scheduling an appointment for your Audi to be serviced every 9,300 miles or every 12 months, whichever comes first.
Servicing your Audi
If you travel frequently or cover a lot of miles, you should get an interim service every 6,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first) to keep your Audi safe and roadworthy in between full services. This covers items like a visual brake inspection, an exhaust and suspension check, and an oil change and oil filter replacement.
Our yearly Full Service option includes all of these aspects as well as a full examination of the engine and other components, with replacement air filters and a top-up of the power steering fluid, for a more thorough examination of your Audi. On our Servicing page, you can find a detailed description of what is covered by both an Interim Service and a Full Service.
Why not combine with your MOT?
Once your automobile is over three years old, it is legally required to have a MOT test performed every 12 months to make sure it is safe and roadworthy. Combining this with routine maintenance may assist to prevent problems and maybe keep your car’s value high. You can save money by ordering a combined MOT and service rather than paying the normal amount for each service and product separately.