Halfords: Motorists could save £400 million by not servicing at dealerships

According to research conducted by Opinium for Halfords, 54 per cent of motorists are wrongly told they must get their vehicle serviced at a dealership to protect their warranty. The truth is that, under UK law, motorists can get their vehicles serviced anywhere from the moment they drive off the forecourt.

Even drivers whose vehicles are no longer under warranty believe they are obliged to use dealerships for servicing. According to Halfords’ research, almost 20 per cent drivers think that is the case.

Earlier this year the company launched its Dealer or No Dealer campaign. Now, in the second phase of the campaign, Halfords is targeting the 6.8 million drivers whose vehicles are out of warranty but who still use dealerships for servicing. According to Halfords research, hard-pressed motorists could save almost £400 million if they stopped using dealerships for servicing once their warranty has expired. To put it another way, Halfords Group’s autocentres operation is an increasingly important part of the overall business.

“People have every right to use a dealer for servicing if they wish, but it’s important they do so out of choice, not because they believe they are under an obligation,” said Graham Stapleton, chief executive of Halfords. “Our research shows there is a great deal of confusion, and it likely starts with what people are told on the forecourt.

“Halfords will always offer a high quality service by fully qualified technicians at a great price. The average saving versus dealerships is often very significant and our garages are often much more convenient. My message to motorists is simple. Whatever you drive, whether it’s a Ford or a Ferrari, you have a choice about where you get your vehicle serviced. Dealer, or No Dealer.”