Import Performance Raleigh Home Your Rights

Get the facts about Vehicle Service and Repair.

Frequently Asked Questions by Owners of New or Leased Vehicles

My new car dealer says I have to return to their facility for all of my car’s maintenance to keep from voiding the warranty. Is this true?

Absolutely not. You can have routine service done by any competent independent service center, shop or garage and still maintain your warranty.

Do I have to use the manufacturer’s original equipment parts to keep my warranty valid?

No! Legally, automakers cannot specify the use of their or anyone else’s products for your vehicle’s maintenance. You may use any brand-name quality product such as CARQUEST to replace fan belts, hoses, brakes, exhausts, chassis parts, oil, or any other product needed to be replaced.

What do I have to do to keep my car or truck’s warranty in effect?

Make sure your vehicle is serviced at the intervals specified in your owner’s manual or warranty booklet and keep very clear records of your vehicle’s maintenance. Be sure to have the date, products installed, vehicle identification number, and mileage recorded on the invoice. Keep your receipts in a safe place. If you have a service log in your owner’s manual or warranty booklet, use it.

My car is a leased vehicle. Am I responsible for maintenance?

Yes! Even if you lease a vehicle you are responsible for all maintenance and repairs and to keep the vehicle in good working order and condition as outlined in the owner’s manual.

What products should be replaced and at what intervals should these services be performed?

Check your owner’s manual. It will give you all of the information you need regarding what products to replace and when to do it. Make sure to read it thoroughly and note any exceptions or severe service notations. Vehicle warranties are there to protect the consumer, but you must follow the recommended service intervals and requirements found in your owner's manual or warranty booklet.

What if my new car needs repairs other than regularly scheduled maintenance, such as a brake job or other repairs? Do I have to return to the dealer for these repairs? What if these repairs are covered under my warranty?

The choice of where to have your car serviced and repaired is yours. As far as repairs covered by the warranty, you will probably have to take the car back to the dealer. Thoroughly check your warranty to be certain that the repairs are covered.

How does the quality of aftermarket products compare with original equipment products?

Today, many of the products are manufactured by the same supplier and may even be guaranteed longer than original equipment products. Aftermarket products supplied by CARQUEST meet or exceed manufacturer’s specifications.

If I do have a warranty-related problem with a dealership, what rights do I have?

If you do have a problem, contact the customer service department of the car manufacturer and ask for assistance. They are concerned with customer satisfaction and may be able to help.

Know Your Rights When it Comes to Vehicle Repair

From Acuras to Volvos, Buicks to Saturns, we can help you protect your new car or truck warranty. By using our quality service and products, our technicians can perform all of your new foreign, domestic, or hybrid vehicle’s maintenance and repairs while keeping your warranty in effect. You don’t have to return to the new car dealer for scheduled service or checkups to ensure your manufacturer’s warranty remains in force. We bring you this information because you have the right to have your vehicle serviced wherever you choose. Ask us how we can help you protect your vehicle’s warranty.