For owners of new motor vehicles—especially those who drive Prestige and European vehicles—the log book service is a non-negotiable part of ownership. It is the crucial step that maintains your car’s reliability, keeps its resale value high, and, most importantly, keeps your manufacturer’s warranty valid.
But a common piece of advice often leaves new car owners in a bind: the strong suggestion (or outright insistence) from a dealership that your new vehicle must be serviced by them—and them alone—to maintain your warranty.
At RM Autohaus Group (including Richmond Motors, RM Autohaus Express (Richmond), and RM Autohaus in Hawthorn), Melbourne’s trusted European vehicle service centres, we want to reassure every Melbourne car owner that this simply is not the case. You have a choice, and making the right one can save you significant money without compromising your vehicle or your protection.
The Truth About Your Warranty: It’s Australian Law
The most powerful tool in your vehicle ownership journey is the Australian Consumer Law (ACL).
Under the ACL, there is absolutely NO legal requirement for your vehicle to be serviced by an authorised dealership to maintain your manufacturer’s statutory warranty. Any claim by a dealer that your warranty will be voided if you use a qualified independent repairer is misleading and in contravention of consumer law.
Choosing an independent expert like RM Autohaus Group will NOT void your new car warranty, provided three simple conditions are met:
- Qualified Professional: The service must be performed by appropriately trained and qualified mechanics (which all RM Autohaus technicians are).
- Manufacturer’s Specifications: The service must adhere strictly to the vehicle manufacturer’s instructions and service intervals as detailed in your log book.
- Quality Parts (OEM or Better): All parts and lubricants used must be of suitable quality for your vehicle. They do not need to be ‘genuine’ parts, only ‘Original Equipment Manufacturer’ parts that meet or exceed the original specifications.
RM Autohaus Group meticulously follows the manufacturer’s log book schedule and uses high-quality, fit-for-purpose parts to ensure your warranty remains 100% valid. We will stamp your log book, confirming the service has been performed correctly and professionally.
The Upside: Expert Service, With The Added Benefit of Savings
Why pay dealership prices for a log book service when you can receive the same—or better—quality of work from an experienced independent service centre?
By choosing RM Autohaus Group for your log book servicing, you gain the best of both worlds:
- Your Trusted Partner For Prestige Vehicle Servicing: We are an experienced, trusted name in Melbourne, specialising in the complex maintenance requirements of Prestige and European vehicles. Our Richmond, Express, and Hawthorn locations offer comprehensive service using the latest equipment and diagnostics.
- Dealer-Level Equipment, Independent Prices: Critically, RM Autohaus is equipped with the same factory diagnostic equipment and specialised tooling used by the dealerships. This ensures we can service, diagnose, and maintain your modern vehicle to the highest manufacturer standard, without the dealership price tag. Our technicians are highly skilled across all major prestige automotive brands, including Audi, BMW, Land Rover, Mercedes Benz, Skoda, Volkswagen and Volvo.
- Significant Savings: Independent workshops typically have lower overheads than dealerships, allowing us to pass on substantial savings to you for the exact same log book service.
- Personalised Care: As a local independent group, we pride ourselves on building long-term relationships. You get to speak directly with the mechanic working on your car, ensuring clear communication and honest advice.
Don’t let the manufacturer dictate where you spend your money. Protect your investment and your rights under the Australian Consumer Law.
Ready to experience Melbourne’s leading dealership alternative and save money on your next service without voiding your warranty?
Contact the RM Autohaus Group location nearest you today to book your next log book service: Richmond Motors, RM Autohaus Express (Richmond), or RM Autohaus in Hawthorn. Your car, your warranty, and your wallet will thank you.
