Hello all.

First post and new to the HJ forums, though I have been using the site for a number of years for advice on buying cars. I am a complete idiot when it comes to mechanics and what is worth what, though I learn quickly when I need to!

I wanted to ask all you experienced people a question: Is it actually worth getting your dealer to service your car any more?

We are told by the Manufacturer to ensure that only affiliated dealers service our motors, and to do so with startling regularity, and we do because a) we want our cars to work and not break and b) to keep resale.

Acknowledging and then ignoring the dodgy back street garages for the mo, a good independent can do a proper service for sometimes half the cost, (even Halfords, though I don't know how good they are). So we are down to the resale value. How much extra have you paid a main dealer in overpriced services vs how much extra you would get for your car when you sell it. It must be small now, and not really worth the bother except on premium marques (Aston anyone?).

For older cars, like mine, the only reason to go to a dealer for a service is if it includes something fairly unique, such as the VTEC valve clearance checks and adjustment or 4WS.

Discuss.

On a cheeky side note, anyone know of an independent in Bucks/Berks that can work on four wheel steering. Honda in Beaconsfield quoted me £2500 (yes) and I now don't trust them.

Pardon any spelling mistakes, I take time but have dispraxia and miss things a lot.