Next service - this is too cheap isn't it?
Next service - this is too cheap isn't it?
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davek_964

Original Poster:

11,359 posts

206 months

Monday 11th February 2019
quotequote all
Since I bought my car almost 4 years ago, I've had it serviced at Spellbound in Farnham - they seem to go over the car in detail, and identify any issues - and in the last couple of years I rectify most of them myself after the service. Cost was typically ~£800 - £1k.

Last year, Spellbound disappeared and became Katz Auto Services instead - which seems a tad more generic than an Aston specialist. However, when I visited there in the Autumn, it did seem to be the same people there - just new owners.

I've just mailed them for my next service (it's a 2006 4.3 Vantage - think the mileage is around 45k). Since they've serviced the car for the last 3 years, I said I assumed they knew what service is due - I know that I had a major (10 year?) only a year or two back because it didn't show in the history - so I had gear oil and stuff like that done then.
They've come back with a quote for what is essentially a minor annual service - oil / filter and pollen filter - with a total inclusive price of £412.44.

It's a ridiculous thing to say - but since it's about half what my previous services have been, it seems..... too cheap! I'm also a little concerned that the service should include more, and that now they're not specialising in Aston that it's basically just the same kind of service I'd get at Kwik Fit.

On the other hand - I've just had to buy some tyres unexpectedly for one of my other cars and I could do with a half price service.

Is it false economy, and should I look elsewhere? I may call them this afternoon and see what kind of feeling I get from talking to them - don't want to move if they're still going to do a good job - especially if they charge less - but equally, I do want the car looked after.

huntsen

137 posts

124 months

Monday 11th February 2019
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It seems the answer lies with Katz Auto Services.
Why not call or visit them (with the car, so they remember who you are) and finalise/negotiate what the service entails?
Then let us know what you thought of them!

Felonious

392 posts

205 months

Monday 11th February 2019
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It seems about right, compared to main dealer prices. Around about 30% less? I'm sure they'd let you negotiate up, but if you have the service schedule send it over and make sure they've remembered to include everything.

davek_964

Original Poster:

11,359 posts

206 months

Monday 11th February 2019
quotequote all
They tell me it is what's due based on the previous services I've had with them.
So think I'll book it in - cheapest service it's had so far - assuming they don't find the engine is about to fall out.

rovcallum

553 posts

174 months

Monday 11th February 2019
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If there are no air filters or gear oil to change this year, that'll bring the cost down nicely.