meesr

Guys- I have a great Audi independent mechanic- do I have to bring my Q5 to dealer for scheduled maintenance or can I bring it to my Indy? Void any warranties? Does Audi give grief if something goes wrong?

ezveedub

If you use the proper oil (VW/Audi 502.00 spec) and service procedures and have it documented on the repair bills, then you should be fine. You need to keep them to prove the car was maintained, as without service records at the dealership, the manufacturer has no way of knowing what was done to the car. Stripped oil pans from improper torquing, failing to replace the drain plug washer or not replacing the drain plug on the 2.0 engine if it's removed for servicing will not be covered under warranty, so keep this in mind. This is what most outside shops screw up.

luv2sleep

Yeah, what he said.
Keep all of your records and receipts. I do all routine maintenance myself; I don't like other people touching my cars. Besides, I can do it better than they can :-) There is a law in place to protect consumers so the dealers/automakers can't blame the DIYers, so as long as you have all of your records. Don't let the dealers scare you. I don't mind paying for "good" work but from my experience, as the saying goes, if you want it done right... DIY (or find a trust worthy mechanic).
BTW, late model German cars are very easy to work on!