Under current market conditions, official dealers of brands that have exited Russia offer no clear advantages over independent service stations that lack dealer status, and drivers do not need to pay extra for their services. This perspective was shared with socialbites.ca by Jan Heitzer, who serves as deputy chairman of the National Automobile Union (NAU).
Heitzer emphasized that there is little merit in overpaying for service at a dealer. Consumers should look for a workshop that comes highly recommended, uses standard grade oil, stocks reliable spare parts, and has proven experience in customer interaction and service. He noted that while some attempts are made to justify premiums, relying on a dealership warranty in such a context is often ill-advised.
When a repair is not covered by warranty, it becomes more sensible to choose a center equipped with diagnostic devices, specialized tools, and a track record of working with a particular car brand. The expert also warned against choosing random low-cost “garage” establishments with questionable staff qualifications, as these options may lead to subpar results and future issues.
Heitzer pointed out that there is no longer a guaranteed advantage from dealers in terms of product authenticity or the exact specification of oils and fluids. Today, dealer networks do not necessarily provide better guarantees for models that entered the market through parallel imports, and consumers should approach maintenance with a critical eye toward value and proven performance.
In summary, the shift in the automotive service landscape means drivers should prioritize established reputation, appropriate tooling, and genuine experience with their specific vehicle rather than brand affiliation alone. This approach helps ensure reliable results, safety, and peace of mind while keeping maintenance costs reasonable in a changing market.