Warranty Invalid? Bollocks
Since the whole Block Exemption malarkey, your servicing can be carried out by ANY bona fide motor mechanic as long as it is done to manufacturer's recommended schedules, and genuine parts are used. So you'll save on the labour.

However, a manufacturer service history makes a difference when it comes to value. In the case of Merc/Bobs/Audis etc a whole big chocolate-coated difference.

My advice for what it's worth is have the routine servicing done by the dealer for the warranty period, but NOT wear and tear items such as brakes which are usually more expensive than a lube service. Get them done by a specialist, but ensure genuine parts as there are counterfeit ones around...

The main dealer will also have the special laptop that will sort out fault codes with the electronics, which is mind-buggeringly expensive.
(osok Rebel without a clue, Tue 6 May 2008, 12:24, Reply)