Mechanic Advisor

Independent Audi Repair Shops Do Not Void Warranty

Posted February 14, 2014

Independent Audi Repair Shops Do Not Void Warranty


The check engine light came on in your Audi. You know it's time to bring your car to the garage for a diagnostic or repair.  Are you risking your warranty by bringing the car to an independent Audi repair shop instead of directly to the dealership? The answer is no. There are many local independent Audi repair shops that can handle your repairs. Any costs not covered under the warranty are also typically much less expensive at local shops as labor is frequently 30-40% cheaper.

      

You and your Audi are protected under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act

Established in 1975, the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act is a federal statute that governs warranties on consumer products. The act was sponsored by Senator Warren G Magnuson of Washington DC. The statute protects consumers from deceptive warranty practices which unfortunately still take place at some dealerships today. 

You have the right to repair or service your Audi at a qualified shop, which includes your local independent shop.  Bringing your vehicle to the shop will not void the warranty on your Audi. You will likely receive qualified attention to your vehicle and OEM (original equipment manufactured) parts which are the same parts the dealership will use. Often, the owner or head mechanic has spent time working at the Audi dealership himself.  Use our search engine above to find a local Independent Audi repair shop

Right to Repair 

Right to repair is also a hot topic in the automotive industry.  Many car manufacturers are making it impossible for local independent repair shop to work on your BMW, Audi, Volvo, and Saab by refusing to grant access to their diagnostic codes and tools.  A car's emissions, engine, ignition, locks, fuel injectors etc. are controlled by computers and complex codes.   Most car manufacturers do not release these codes to any shops, forcing the vehicle owner to use the dealership for service and repairs.  This has caused an uproar in the auto industry, and small shops trying to stay afloat in a tough economy have fought back. Right to Repair laws are slowly being passed state by state, allowing independent shop owners access to diagnostic codes and tools.  Follow this link to learn more.      http://www.righttorepair.org/main/default.aspx