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Maintenance · September 17, 2024

Do You Have to Service a New Car at the Dealer?

No — you don’t have to service a new car at the dealer to keep the warranty. The law lets you choose where routine maintenance is done. Keep records and follow the manufacturer’s schedule; warranty repairs and recalls are still handled by the dealer.

Tune-up and inspection bays at Neal’s Garage in Durham, NC

What you can do anywhere

Routine, scheduled maintenance — oil changes, filters, fluid services, tire rotation, inspections and the 30-60-90K services — can be done by an independent shop without affecting your warranty. That’s what our new car maintenance service is for.

What still goes to the dealer

Repairs covered by the warranty, and manufacturer recalls, are the dealer’s job. We’ll tell you if something we find looks like a warranty or recall item and point you there.

Neal’s Garage service bays lit up at night on West Markham Avenue in Durham, NC
Neal’s Garage on West Markham Avenue, after dark.

How to protect your warranty

  • Follow the schedule in your owner’s manual — the intervals and the specified fluids.
  • Keep your records. Every invoice should show the date, mileage and work done.
  • Use the right parts and fluids for your vehicle. We do.

Why go independent?

Dealer-level work doesn’t require a dealership. Neal’s Garage uses the same manufacturer-specific scan tools dealers use, our technicians are ASE certified, and you deal with the same people every visit. More in Neal’s Garage vs. the dealership and why ASE certification matters.

Thinking long term?

Starting the Lifetime Protection Plan early gets you the highest coverage tier — up to $4,000 of repair coverage for cars enrolled at 0–36,000 miles.

We service most makes — see brands we service. Call 919-286-1167 or schedule an appointment — we’re open Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM at 1907 West Markham Avenue, right off Ninth Street.

Frequently asked questions

Will servicing my car at an independent shop void the warranty?

No. The law lets you choose where routine maintenance is done. Follow the manufacturer’s schedule and keep your records; warranty repairs and recalls still go to the dealer.

Can Neal’s Garage do 30-60-90K services?

Yes. 30-60-90K services are part of Neal’s Garage’s preventative maintenance work.

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Ready when you are

ASE-certified mechanics serving Durham, NC since 1950. Book online or call 919-286-1167 — Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM.

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