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Are service plans really worth it?

If you recently purchased a car, you might have heard about service plans from your sales executive. Service plans are fast becoming a popular way to make vehicle servicing and maintenance more affordable.

But with the cost of living forever increasing, and all the other costs and requirements that come with owning a vehicle, service plans are also sometimes seen as just an additional expense.

So let's take a look at whether service plans are really worth it.

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What is a service plan?

A service plan requires a one of lump sum or a monthly payment towards your car's servicing. 

Depending on the plan you choose, your service plan could be for a particular dealership, meaning you will need to return to that garage each time. Alternatively you could opt for a franchise service plan meaning you could use any approved service centre for that manufacturer.

What does a service plan include?

Different service plans include different things, so you'll need to read the fine print when you're looking at purchasing one.

Usually, a service plan is a two or three year agreement that covers the cost of the services required during that time according to the manufacturer's service schedule.

On a minor service you will often find that the oil, oil filter and pollen filter are replaced. One a major service you may find additional parts such as brake fluid and fuel filter changes. Your service plan will cover the cost of these and the labour needed to carry out the job.

Service plans do not cover wear and tear items such as tyres, brakes or windscreen wipers. 

Are service plans only for new cars?

No, you can purchase a service plan at any point during your vehicle ownership. Service plans are most commonly encountered with new cars as they are usually offered and sold at the same time as the car purchase. 

Service plans for older vehicles may include different elements. It's important to read the terms and conditions of the service plan you intend to take out before purchasing.

What happens to my service plan if I sell my car?

If you decide to sell your car while you have a service plan still active, then you have a few options.

You should be able to cancel a plan and have any balance returned to you at any time.

If you are purchasing a vehicle from the same manufacturer, or you are intending on using the same dealership, you may be able to transfer the service plan to your new car.

If you decide to sell your car privately, you may be able to transfer the service plan to the new owner, adding extra value to your car. 

Service plan vs extended warranty

A service plan is not a substitute for an extended warranty and vice versa. In fact, we recommend purchasing a service plan in conjunction with your extended warranty to ensure you don't miss any vital maintenance that could affect your chances of making any warranty claims.

An extended warranty gives you an additional warranty period once your manufacturer's warranty has expired. This will cover any manufacturing defects that cause your vehicle to fail. Any kind of warranty is only usually valid if you have correctly serviced and maintained your vehicle using approved parts and providers, which is the same as a manufacturer's warranty. If you have not kept up with your servicing appropriately, you may find that any extended warranty you have invested in becomes void.

How much is a service plan?

The cost of a service plan varies depending on the manufacturer or garage you choose. It will also depend on the model, manufacturer's service schedule and your annual mileage. Speak with a member of our aftersales team to get a personalised quote.

We offer a range of service plans for different vehicle manufacturers. Click one of the options below to find out more about the pricing for our manufacturer approved service plans:

Will a service plan save me money?

In short, yes.

You will usually find over a period of 3 or so years the the costs of parts and labour increases with inflation. With a service plan your price is fixed, so it cannot be affected by price rises, nor do you pay any interest if you opt for a monthly payment. 

Other benefits to a service plan means your car will retain more value in comparison to a non-maintained car. Fully maintained and serviced vehicles also benefit from keeping their warranty in tact.

Service Plans with Chippenham Motor Company

We offer a range of service plans from our approved manufacturers as well as individual service plans for other vehicles. The best thing to do is speak to our teams at our Bumpers Farm or MRG dealerships.

You can select one of the logos below to read more about the service plans on offer for that brand and enquire through our website. One of our aftersales team will be in touch to offer you a quote and set everything up for you. 




09 March 2022

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