Just to put in my two penny worth in, having owned a variety of over 30 sporting cars over 35 years purchased from small local garages, privately and from large dealers some main dealers I would say this.
1. Main dealers customer service varies greatly, most are franchised and it depends on the control exerted by the marque as to what the level of service is.
2. Small local garages can be a mixed bunch, if car enthusiasts then usually good, otherwise I have generally found it is the profit margin they are interested in.
3. Marque specialists, I have found pretty good they are up against the main dealer and generally go that extra mile and can be better value.
Obviously having said that there are exceptions either way.
Personal experience
Porsche main dealers always been excelent at the 3, I have used in the past.
Autofarm (3rd part excellent)
Ferrari 3rd party specialists excellent having used 2.
Westerley mini excellent
Land Rover- Matfords a mixed bag, generally good but had a servicing issue
Aston Martin - superb, factory called me as I had purchase car was booked in for service at local main dealer, offered check up free by factory chief mech., car was 5 years old out of warranty, identified water leak on door seals which was known issue, he booked car into factory to fix for free and do the service at discount, and a factory visit at the same time. I was astounded by the service, his response was that they hope that n Aston was for life ownership and tried to support owners in that, and any factory known faults were covered whatever the age of the car. Try beating that.
Morgan - Berrybrooks very helpful, good service, try and accommodate you as best they can. Pleased to chat about cars and issues.
If you find a good garage for your vehicle stick with them, but remember they are a business
