Car dealer diagnostic fees: Just another service department scam?

 

Download the PODCAST for this report

 

QUESTION

Hi John,

It seems Kia Australia dealerships are all now charging a fee to look at warranty claims. I’ve phoned Kia Australia and was told it's just the way it is, despite this not being a term in the new car warranty supplied with the car.

What gives?

Thanks,

‘Big W’ (not their actual name)

 

AutoExpert DISCOUNT ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE PACKAGE

If you’re sick of paying through the neck for roadside assistance, I’ve teamed up with 24/7 to offer AutoExpert readers nationwide roadside assistance from just $69 annually.

Plus there’s NO JOINING FEE. Full details >>

AutoExpert DISCOUNT OLIGHT TORCHES

These flashlights are awesome. I carry the Olight Warrior Mini 2 every day - it’s tiny, robust, and super useful in the field or in the workshop. Olight is a terrific supporter of AutoExpert.

Use the code AEJC for a 12% discount >>

 

More reports

Featured
Isuzu D-Max review and buyer’s guide
Isuzu D-Max review and buyer’s guide

The D-Max promises reliability and grunt for towing, touring and off-road adventures. But here are the definitive, balanced reasons an Isuzu D-Max is a paradoxically good idea and also a potentially regrettable one…

Mitsubishi Triton review and buyer’s guide
Mitsubishi Triton review and buyer’s guide

The Triton is a 4x4 ute that offers excellent value, benchmark towing capacity and off-road capability that puts more expensive utes to shame. Here’s what you need to know about Mitsubishi’s tougher, smarter, comfier pick-up.

Kia Tasman review and buyer’s guide
Kia Tasman review and buyer’s guide

The all-new Kia Tasman 4X4 dual-cab ute is finally on sale in Australia, offering some compelling value in its lower model grades and some serious off-roading potential in top-spec. Let’s see if it’s a worthy Ranger, Hilux and Triton rival - or a respectable first try.

Toyota LandCruiser 300 review and buyer’s guide
Toyota LandCruiser 300 review and buyer’s guide

Buying a 7-seat 4X4 wagon like a Toyota LandCruiser 300 is common in Australia when you want an off-roader that can carry plenty of adventure gear, the family and tow a big boat or trailer. But spending six figures of your hard-earned money means asking some tough questions, and giving honest answers.

Nissan Patrol review and buyer’s guide
Nissan Patrol review and buyer’s guide

The Nissan Patrol is a proven, rugged 4X4 wagon with off-road and towing pedigree, seven luxurious seats and a grunty, reliable engine. Buying a Patrol, the last V8 4WD in Australia, you’ll save over $20K compared with a LandCruiser. There are some good reasons why you should consider a Patrol before they’re all gone…

Have your say

John Cadoganwarranty, dealer, consumer1 Comment