Volkswagen has launched a price-match campaign until the end of the year, which it hopes will attract lapsed retail customers back into the franchised network for services.

The carmaker has pledged that all participating dealers – currently 88% of the network – will price match any service, maintenance or repair quote from an independent garage within a five mile radius.

The quote must be in writing for a like-for-like job, with the independent using Volkswagen original parts.

Paul Lougher-Smith, VW’s aftersales marketing manager, said it was a cliché that franchised network outlets are more expensive than independent garages.

“We are so confident in our prices being competitive that we’re giving Volkwagen owners of any age of vehicle the chance to shop around and then demand the same price from their Volkswagen retailer. That way, they get the best quality work as well as the knowledge that they’re also paying the best price.”

Perception of price is the main reason given for not using a franchised workshop. VW hopes the promotion will combat this. The promotion excludes fleets, and does not apply to bodyshop, accessories or merchandising.