[Power Hungry]

Mercedes is absolutely correct. You are NOT required to go to the dealer to have warranty repairs done. Any legitimate shop can handle the repairs and the submit the bill to the warranty handler, in most cases a warranty assurance company.

This goes for replacement components. You are not required to buy parts directly from the manufacturer as long as there is an equivalent quality part available. Of course, "equivalent quality" is a fairly loose term but in most cases it's common sense. In nearly all cases, brand name items meet and often exceed the manufacturer's specifications.

As an independent mechanic for 15 years, I have had to fight the stigma that just because they're the dealer, they know what they're doing. Granted, you will find many good technicians among the usual lot of knuckleheads, but often you'll find that some of the techs are completely over their head, especially when dealing with drivability issues. That, plus the fact that the dealerships are going through great effort to void the warranties of their own customers is certainly no incentive for me to bring my stuff back to them for repairs. I'll support the local guy every time.

Take care.