In my early forays into independent service shops (when Range Rovers were unfamiliar to US mechanics), I found it was usually less expensive to pay a dealer to do a specialized job than to use other shops which might not be familiar with the peculiarities of Range Rovers. This situation has improved since those days, and there are now many more independent shops that are experienced in Land Rover service and have the right equipment. Even so, dealer knowledge can sometimes still be hard to beat. On occasion I have even found that Land Rover has helped out by footing the bill for repairs that should not be necessary, even thought the vehicle is way past the warranty period. This is of course unlikely to happen at an independent shop.

If you take your Range Rover to an independent shop, be sure it is really familiar with the marque. Even the routine servicing of a Range Rover Classic, for example, involves such things as checking the oil level in the swivel pin housings -- a component most mechanics (including some of those advertising themselves as "British Car" specialists) are not even aware of! Hourly labor rates are generally less than at the dealer, but you pay for more hours if the mechanic is not familiar with the task at hand, and omission of vital servicing needs can lead to problems down the road. 

I am starting a compilation of high quality Independent Service Shops with whom I have corresponded. These shops employ Land Rover factory-trained mechanics and seem to be familiar with the special peculiarities and needs of Range Rovers. Additional shops with which I am less familiar are listed on our Range Rover links page. Those interested in finding more non-dealer mechanics might find this link very useful, with its comprehensive listing of independent shops claiming to specialize in Land Rovers.

Transportation while your RR is in the Shop

If you get your RR serviced at a dealer, and it is going to be more than a day or so in the shop, they will probably give you a loaner. Failing that, nost dealers have arrangements with local rental car companies to provide you with a discounted rental car while your Rover is out of commission.

If you use an independent shop, especially if it is a cost-cutting one with low hourly rates, you may need to make your own arrangements for alternative transport during the time your vehicle is in the shop. If you are looking for something inexpensive, a good bet is to get 10% off car rental with Budget, or try Dollar Car Rental at  www.dollar.com.

Extended Warranties
Due to the considerable expense of proper maintenance and repairs for Range Rovers, extended warranties can be an attractive deal. Click here to find out more about the pros and cons of aftermarket warranties for Range Rovers.