Over the past year under my ownership, it has covered over 13,000 km.
BHPian vaibhavyagnik recently shared this with other enthusiasts.
Hello, fellow forum members,
I bought a used 2016 Skoda Octavia 2.0 TDI DSG in July of 2022. The car had run 1.28L KM at the time of purchase. The car had done 8000 km since its last service and was mostly sitting idle. Since the 1-year service interval had crossed, I got the car serviced at Friendly Neighbourhood Garage (FNG) with Liqui Moly Top Tec 4100 which complies with VW505 01 standard and is recommended as per manual.
After the service, I could feel a noticeable difference in the vibration of the car. The car has been running great, I have driven the car 13,000 km since I purchased it. The engine is still smooth as it was just after the service.
The car is about to be due for its next service for which I am confused if I should go with Skoda or FNG again.
Pros for local garage
- I can again opt for Liqui Moly Top Tec 4100
- I can opt for OEM parts which are not critical. For example, the AC cabin filter
- Labour is considerably cheaper. This will offset the higher cost of Liqui moly oil
Cons for local garage
- Not so professional. Torqueing to spec – What is that?
- The service records will have to be maintained by me
Pros for Skoda authorised service
- Professional – They will do everything to spec. I also get a warranty for the first 1000 km related to the work that was done.
- The service records will be well maintained and available for future reference
Cons for Skoda authorised service
- The dealer is denying my request to use Liqui Moly Top tec 4100
- Labour is considerably higher
- I am afraid I will have to live with a rougher feeling engine.
- What is your opinion on getting the car serviced at Skoda vs FNG?
Here’s what BHPian Turbohead had to say on the matter:
For critical parts related to the engine like the timing belt, water pump, alternator belt, EGR cooler pumps etc stick with the Skoda ASS. We had issues with procuring original EGR cooler pumps in the past from the FNG. Finally, the FNG himself suggested going to the service centre. Although a good FNG will do the timing belt replacement, I’d still recommend the service centre for peace of mind.
For regular service and aftermarket parts like suspension, brakes etc you can go to the FNG. You have better control over the type of performance you can expect from these parts.
Keyword: Servicing an old German car: Authorised workshop v/s local garage