Do I have to service at the dealer to keep my warranty in Canada?

Start with the booklet that came with your car, because it sets the terms. Many articles online are written for drivers in the United States and quote a US federal law. That law does not apply here.

The Canadian booklets we read are clear on maintenance. Mazda Canada's 2024 booklet says that if you do the maintenance yourself or have it done somewhere other than a Mazda dealer, the fluids, parts and materials must meet Mazda's standards as set out in the owner's manual. Subaru Canada's booklet says an owner who cannot return to a Subaru dealer should keep receipts as proof of maintenance. CAA-Quebec says you can choose the dealer or a shop you trust, and advises keeping all your invoices.

The schedule matters as much as the shop. CAA-Quebec notes that if you skip scheduled maintenance, the maker may say a failure came from a lack of it. Our guide on how often to change your oil covers the schedule most people ask about.

Subaru Canada lists the minimum. Each receipt should show the shop's name and address, your VIN, the date and the kilometres. Mazda Canada also asks that receipts be signed by a qualified technician. Our invoices carry all of that, plus the work done and the parts and fluids we used.

If you do your own oil changes, check your booklet. Mazda's accepts a signed statement with the date and kilometres, along with the receipts for the oil and filter.

Warranty repairs go to a dealer for your brand. Mazda's booklet says the vehicle must be brought to an authorized Mazda dealer for all warranty service. The dealer then repairs or replaces the covered part without charge for parts or labour. It also lists repairs done at other shops among the things the warranty does not cover. So if a covered part fails, take it to the dealer first.

When something we find on the hoist looks like a warranty item, we tell you so before we quote anything. That way the repair goes where it costs you nothing.

Start with the dispute process in your owner's manual or warranty booklet. Canada's Office of Consumer Affairs points to the Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan, called CAMVAP, as the next step. It offers binding arbitration for disputes about vehicle defects and new vehicle warranties. The Office says most vehicles bought or leased in Canada and made in the last four years are covered. Your booklet may also note that you have other rights, which vary from province to province.