Mazda Service / Oil change versus a third party

[onmyd]

Hi, can anyone help with the pros and cons of a Mazda service center service versus a reputable third party? My Mazda 5 is coming up to 2 years old and still in warranty. THANKS!

 

[BlackCherry06]

I don't take my car to Jiffy Lube, WalMart or the like. The people they tend to hire don't give a damn about my, or your car and the chances of something getting screwed up are high. Stripped / crossthreaded drain bolts, mis-installed filters, etc. can all lead to catastrophic engine failure, or at least costly repairs down the road. Have Mazda do it, find a reputable independent shop, or do it yourself.

 

[ljmattox]

You'll find information (horror stories) all over the 'net about quick-change places, and of course, like fast-food joints, it all depends on what's it like at the one near you.

My closest Mazda dealer offers a quick-change service that's within a few bucks of the "Jiffy" places, but I've never used them.

For convenience sake, and having read about the multiple fasteners and process to get the 5's lower engine cover removed (and re-installed), I ultimately decided to do it myself. Takes me about an hour, start-to-stop, no rushing, including the tire rotation. The AutoZone near me always has a service special running on 5 qts of good oil and a good filter for under $20.

 

[skyhawk]

I take mine to my dealership. There's not much difference in price and they get to
check the undercarriage for any loose fasteners (the ones that hold the plastic trays and shields underneath).. and they do have stock if ever they need to replace them.

I do take the time to look underneath after I get the key. And count 7 bolts and 2 plastic fasteners that hold the black splash shield up under the engine. --- Tech often forget or intentionaly left out the plastic fasteners.

There is also the goal of trying to keep good dealer-to-customer relationship, that can benefit both sides.. in the long run.