To avoid warranty disputes, car owners are advised to keep proper records when they go to third-party workshops. The Singapore Motor Traders Association (MTA) said yesterday vehicle owners may find it difficult to make warranty claims for a defect or malfunction if this was caused by 'any repair, servicing or other actions carried out by third parties'.

It said in a statement that authorised motor dealers have the right to reject warranty claims for parts 'replaced or modified by third parties'. The association's statement was in response to remarks made by the Competition Commission of Singapore (CCS) a week ago. The CCS said on 11^th December that authorised dealers had agreed to remove a clause that voids warranty cover should a car owner go to a third-party workshop.

The MTA said, "To avoid any complications when claiming warranty for vehicles not serviced by authorised motor dealers, motorists should keep proper records of their servicing."

For example, they should keep detailed invoices of their vehicle servicing. The invoices should show proof of purchase of genuine parts (with part serial numbers). "These records would help support their warranty claims," the association said. It added that authorised agents may need to spend more time and effort going through vehicles, which have not been serviced by them if a warranty claim arises. "This may result in longer downtime and additional cost to the customer," it added.

The association explained why servicing at authorised dealers' workshops costs more than at third-party workshops. "A car is made up of some 30,000 parts and is an amalgamation of more than eight separate but interconnected systems. Every component or part has been rigorously tested by the manufacturer to ensure they complement each other so that the vehicle performs optimally. Thus, using the proper parts, tools and equipment, and having the correct procedure and proper technique to service and/or replace the part/car are critical."

Singapore Motor Workshop Association Secretary Joey Lim said the MTA's requirements are 'a must'. "Parts must be genuine or from original equipment makers. Labour must be qualified," he added. Mr. Lim also said the association is redoubling efforts to get its technicians qualified. "Spring Singapore is working on an automotive portal with us," he added. "In future, all mileage and invoice information will be captured digitally."

Motorist Anthony Leong said he would go to an authorised agent when a car is under warranty. The 66-year old Business Consultant said, "The question is accident repair. If it's just a minor body work, I might probably get it done outside. I'd go back to the agent if the work needed may jeopardise the warranty."