If you’ve recently bought a new car, chances are the dealership told you to bring it back for every service to keep your warranty valid. It’s a common piece of advice — and it’s also largely a myth.
Here’s what you actually need to know about logbook servicing and your warranty rights in Australia.
What Is a Logbook Service?
When you buy a new vehicle, the manufacturer provides a logbook — a service schedule that outlines exactly what needs to be inspected, replaced, and checked at specific kilometre or time intervals. Following this schedule is what keeps your new car warranty valid.
A logbook service isn’t just an oil change. Depending on the interval, it can include checks on your brakes, tyres, suspension, fluids, filters, belts, lights, and more — all according to what the manufacturer specifies for your exact vehicle.
The Dealer Myth
Many new car buyers believe they must have their vehicle serviced at the dealership to maintain their warranty. This belief is so widespread that dealers rarely correct it — because it keeps customers coming back and paying dealer prices.
The truth is different.
What Australian Consumer Law Actually Says
Under Australian Consumer Law and the Competition and Consumer Act 2010, a manufacturer cannot void your vehicle warranty simply because you chose to have it serviced at an independent workshop — provided the service was carried out correctly and to manufacturer specifications.
This is sometimes called the “right to repair.” You are entitled to have your vehicle serviced by any qualified mechanic, using quality parts that meet manufacturer standards, without risking your warranty.
The key requirements are:
- The service must follow the manufacturer’s specified schedule
- Quality parts meeting OEM standards must be used
- The logbook must be stamped and completed correctly
- A service record must be kept
At Metro Garage, we meet every one of these requirements. We follow your manufacturer’s schedule precisely, use quality parts, and stamp your logbook — giving you full warranty protection at a fraction of the dealer price.
Why Choose an Independent Workshop for Your Logbook Service?
Cost. Dealer servicing is expensive. Independent workshops like Metro Garage offer the same quality service — often at significantly lower prices — because we’re not carrying the overhead of a large franchise operation.
Personal Service. At a dealership, your car is one of dozens on the floor. At Metro Garage, you deal directly with our technicians. We know your vehicle, we remember your history, and we treat every car like it’s our own.
Transparency. We tell you exactly what was done, what we found, and what we recommend — with no pressure and no upselling. You get a clear service report every time.
Convenience. We offer flexible scheduling and courtesy pick up and drop off for eligible vehicles, so servicing your car doesn’t have to disrupt your day.
What About Warranty Claims?
If you ever need to make a warranty claim, you’ll need to show that your vehicle was serviced according to the manufacturer’s schedule. That’s why keeping your stamped logbook and service records is important.
We provide a full service record for every logbook service we complete. Keep it with your logbook — it’s your proof of compliance and your protection.
The Bottom Line
You do not have to go to the dealer to keep your warranty. You just need to go to a qualified, professional workshop that follows the manufacturer’s specifications — and that’s exactly what Metro Garage does.
Save money. Get better service. Keep your warranty.
Book your Logbook Service with Metro Garage today.
📍 537 Lake Rd, Seville Grove WA 6112