I am buying my '01L from an out of the way dealer, is it okay to have it serviced by a Ford non-SVT dealer? I am sure it will be limited to oil changes, etc...., but can they work on the intercoolant leak, if that were to occur? My SVT dealer told me they are an "SVT" authorized dealer because their mechanics are specially certified for SVT vehicles. I am sure that is true, but I would hate to drive 30 miles just to have my Lightning serviced for basic needs. Anyone know for sure what is best?

 

I had my intercooler replaced by a non-SVT dealer (Mullinax Lincoln Mercury), but they wrote it up as the sister dealer Mullinax Ford (SVT certified) doing the work. I did have my wiper blades replaced at a non-SVT dealer, but that same dealer would NOT fix my burned out fog light. They said it was an "SVT specific" part and they could not / would not touch it. I guess they got burned before by doing work on an SVT Contour, and never got paid by Ford for the work done.
By the way the new intercooler works nicely, and no leaks yet......

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99.5 Lightning
K+N Filter
Tek-Style Tonneau Cover
93 Mustang Cobra
12.90 @ 105 mph

 

Actually, any dealer can perform any service on these vehicles. I dont think ford has an SVT mechanic certification, but I could be mistaken. However, any dealer can get the necessary parts and can be reimbursed by ford. I have had foglamps, intercooler parts, and brake rotors all replaced by a non-SVT dealer.

I initially took my Lightning to the SVT dealer who turned out to be completely incompetent. (I had the intercooler leak. First, they told me that Lightnings dont have intercoolers. Then they tried to convince me that coolant was a consumable and that 2 gallons per week was normal) I then took the Lightning to my local dealer who has been wonderful from a service perspective. In fact, I get treated like royalty there since the mechanics are less jaded and still enjoy the chance to work on a Lightning.

[This message has been edited by Nathan (edited 10-11-2000).]

 

Nathan,

Is that an SVT dealer located in SA?

Skyhawk

 

I go to a non SVT Dealer even for non warranty work. Excellent...the best dealer service I have ever received, the same mechanic always works on my truck. The worst Dealer Service (or lack of it) turned out to be where I bought my truck. Ford set this up after Dealer (Dahl Ford) refused to fix my Service Engine Light.
Some here use Lincoln Dealers.
Jim

 

When and if, I need warranty work , I will be taken my truck to a L/M dealer. Bought a new sable from Liberty L/M in Clifton NJ and they are GOOD people who give a S#I%.

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99 Black#1940 Modified Airaid box Pro-M 80 Swanson Chip Wet Okole's Loud Clunk Bedrug Clear corners 2" Aim drop 2nd set well worn F-1's 100 W Xenon Fog Lamps Red Line Water Wetter