Porsche Enthusiasts Club Forum

Yes, very serious....

Why does an indie Porsche specialist charge £500 for a service on my 911, and a general mechanic's workshop charge £200?

Is it really a better product?.

Hi

Because the general mechanic has no idea what he is doing, and although cheaper that lack of knowledge will bite you in the bum sooner or later....

Its only one step up from using QuikFit etc....and nobody here would do that.....

All the best Brett

Was it a big service?

Our local(ish) well respected indie Northway Porsche, only charge £320 for a major service on an SC (assuming that's what you are getting worked on)
There are extras like brake fluid change for £60
However, others are showing £400 - £500

Being specific then, a local specialist is quoting £465 for a 12k service - yes for an sc. (I rounded it up lol). But the point is made...And I'm looking for somewhere to take it, so it hasnt happened yet....
So I guess I was asking if we all agree with Brett's point? Surely, changing the oil and brake fluid doesnt take that much specialist knowledge.....?

You think that's expensive? My boss has a 981 soft top which is 4 years old and has done 16,000 miles. His next service will include spark plugs, brake fluid change and a host of other things. OPC Reading have quoted him £1,600 inc VAT for all the work. He has a Porsche extended warranty on the car so will be coughing up. Ouch.....

If he's doing brake fluid as well £460 doesn't sound too bad. You can shop around, there are good and bad indies, you could always try an OPC they will usually price match. Where are you based?
You pay your money you take your choice, service stamps and invoices from a specialist will add to the provenance of a car. A good Indie will also spot anything else that might need sorting before it becomes a bigger problem.

An air cooled SC engine needs a lot of oil, I would question what oil is being used if I am being charged £200. From memory you will need 13 litres of a good quality oil, I use Mobil 1 Motorsport Spec in my 3.2 and my 3.6 will get the same when she is due.

The cost of the lube oil alone, if you were buying it yourself would cost over £100 (good quality), filters, lube, fuel, air,£40, decent brake fluid about a tenner, he should also drain down the clutch slave (nearly always overlooked, unless you instruct the garage) you will see why if you look at what comes out! checking brake pads, ignition system, and a damn good look round. Plus his ramp time, labour and vat. Soon adds up! as Sean said where are you, we would be able to point you in the right direction if you have concerns.