Official dealer or independent garage in Belgium: how to avoid overpaying for your car

Introduction

Your car needs servicing or a repair. You have two options: the official dealer or the independent garage.

But did you know that the price difference between the two can be glaring?

According to a recent RTBF investigation, the same quote can go from €6,685 at the dealer to €2,876 at the independent garage. That is a saving of almost €3,800. So how do you find your way? And above all, how can you be sure you are making the right choice?

At Garage Privé, we help Belgians with their car decisions every day. Here is our full analysis.

The figures: price gaps that make your head spin

Labour rates vary enormously in Belgium. Here is an overview based on market data:

At independent garages

At official dealers

The conclusion is clear: labour at a premium dealer can cost more than double what it costs at an independent garage.

Why such a price difference?

According to industry experts, several factors explain these gaps:

• Overheads: a dealer has larger buildings, more staff and marketing obligations imposed by the manufacturer

• Original parts: official networks are often required to use manufacturer parts, which are more expensive (but not always better)

• Ongoing training: technicians in the official network follow regular training imposed by the brand

• Less competition: dealers, often part of large groups, face less pressure on prices

• Extended warranty: during a repair, the dealer often replaces extra accessories as a precaution

An independent garage, on the other hand, has lower overheads and complete freedom over the choice of parts and prices.

Warranty: can you go to an independent garage without risk?

That is THE question everyone asks. And the answer is yes, with a few precautions.

What the law says:

• You do not lose your manufacturer warranty by going to an independent garage

• But you must prove that the manufacturer's standards were met

• All work carried out is recorded on the vehicle's Car-Pass

Our advice:

• Car under warranty → go to the dealer to avoid any dispute

• Car out of warranty and/or with high mileage → a trusted independent garage is often the best choice

• In all cases → always ask for several quotes before deciding

Did you know?

A Belgian owner keeps their vehicle for 9 years, 9 months and 11 days on average. Over that period, the difference in servicing costs between a dealer and an independent garage can amount to several thousand euros.

5 tips to avoid paying too much

1. Always ask for a detailed quote: compare at least 2 to 3 garages

2. Check whether your car is still under warranty: if so, weigh up the pros and cons

3. Look for an independent garage that specialises in your brand: it will be more efficient and therefore cheaper

4. Do not overlook trust: responsiveness, advice and transparency are priceless

5. Consider service packages: some dealers offer packages over 5 to 7 years that can be good value when you buy

What if you had a car adviser by your side?

At Garage Privé in Wavre, we do not do servicing or repairs. Our job is to support you in all your car decisions: buying, selling, and also pointing you to the right service providers at the best price.

Thanks to our network of trusted partners (mechanics, body shops, specialists), we always recommend the professional suited to your situation, with no conflict of interest.

Need advice? Contact us for a no-obligation chat.

FAQ

Source: RTBF investigation “On n'est pas des pigeons”, February 2026