Switching To An Independent Toyota Garage?

[purvesh81]

On the back of Gregg's thread on the value of MK1 Avensis's, and with my next major service due (108k).

Do you think it is still worthwhile getting the services done from the dealer or is it worth saving the cash and going to an independent toyota specialist?

The reason why I'm asking is, if mine is worth say £2.5k and I'm looking to keep it for another 3 years, roughly what will be the gain I receive for keeping the Full toyota service history compared to going independent for the last three years, but having a full service history up until then? Then I can compare this to the extra cost it takes to carry out the service by toyota dealers.

With the number of avensis's used as taxis there must be some decent toyota independent garage's. Can anyone recommend any?

Appreciate your help and thoughts :)

[TheNissanMan]

TBH when we appraise vehicles for PX at work if its over 100k you can pretty much guarentee its worth nothing anyway, if selling private a full service history should be good enough at that mileage..

[purvesh81]

if selling private a full service history should be good enough at that mileage..

So by full service history you mean both dealer and independent would be ok? (As long as the history is logged)

[alangrim]

Can anyone recommend any?

Hi

Where about in Kent RU?

I use a independent in Sidcup and have been using him for a few years now, he stamps the service book. and is good on price and service.

Send me a PM for his details.

Alan

[TheNissanMan]

As long as the independant is VAT registered and uses authorised Toyota parts it makes no difference, govt put that in place a good few years ago to stop main dealers keeping their prices artificially high.... Thats not just high mileage but at any mileage btw...

[Mops1]

I also have a 99 avensis and take mine to Nationwide autocentre for service. Did not seem viable to see MrT for service as I'm not that concerned about FTSH as I'll probably keep the car until it dies or till when fixing it starts to cost more then it's worth.

[BIGRED]

Hmmmm... http://toyotaownersclub.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=56211 ;)

[avensis_gls]

If you ever want to sell this piece of beauty when you're done with it as long as the engine is in good condition then contact me ASAP.

I would be interested in buying it very much!!!

.....but obviously not at 2.5k.....

[bjw]

Quite a few Toyota dealers do reduced priced servicing on cars over 3 years old and the older they get the bigger discount you get !how much will be the saving be if Toyota parts are being used as its just labour charges that cost more and on a minor service the time taken is minimal .I must admit the price they charge for oil does make your eyes water Have you checked the price difference between the two