Questions and answers
100 answers to common questions about cars and workshops
An easy-to-search reference for anyone wondering about service, EU vehicle inspection, tires, EVs, warranty, pricing and company car agreements in Sandefjord.
Contents
Jump to category
EU vehicle inspection
Periodic vehicle inspection, deadlines and procedures.
10 questions
Service and maintenance
Intervals, what's included and how long it takes.
10 questions
Tires and tire hotel
Tire changes, tire hotel, tread depth and air pressure.
10 questions
EV and hybrid
Service, battery and special requirements for EVs and hybrids.
10 questions
Brakes, battery and engine
Technical questions about common wear and fault areas.
10 questions
Pricing and invoicing
Estimates, payment and business invoicing.
10 questions
Booking and opening hours
How to book and how the day unfolds.
10 questions
Warranty and insurance
Factory warranty, liability insurance and complaints.
10 questions
Company cars and business customers
Service agreements, fleet service and tailored solutions.
10 questions
Sandefjord and practical matters
Location, transport and practical handling.
10 questions
EU vehicle inspection
EU vehicle inspection
Periodic vehicle inspection, deadlines and procedures.
How much does an EU vehicle inspection cost in Sandefjord?
The price varies between workshops. We'll give you an up-to-date quote when you book — call 41 17 32 24 or book online. We always notify you before doing anything extra.
How long does an EU vehicle inspection take?
The inspection itself usually takes 30–60 minutes. You can wait at the workshop or take a stroll downtown while we work.
When does my car need an EU vehicle inspection?
The first inspection is at 4 years of age, then every 2 years. You'll find your deadline on Vegvesen.no or in your digital mailbox.
What if I've missed the EU inspection deadline?
Book an appointment immediately. The Norwegian Public Roads Administration can suspend your license plate if the inspection isn't done in time. We'll fit you in as quickly as we can.
What gets checked during an EU vehicle inspection?
We check brakes, lights, steering, suspension, tires, exhaust system, body, safety equipment, windows, mirrors and electronics via OBD. We follow the official inspection checklist from the Norwegian Public Roads Administration.
What are defect classes 1, 2 and 3?
Class 1 is a minor defect with a 2-month deadline. Class 2 is a serious defect that must be fixed. Class 3 is a driving ban — the car cannot be used until the defect is repaired.
Can you do EU inspection on an EV?
Yes. We have the expertise and equipment for EVs. The procedure is simpler on some points (no exhaust), but the rest is the same.
What do I need to bring to the EU inspection?
You don't need the registration card if the car is registered in Norway. Make sure the car is reasonably clean, and remove loose items from the trunk and cabin.
Can you repair what's found during the EU inspection?
Yes. We give you an estimate and notice before we start. Many faults are fixed the same day, otherwise we'll book a new appointment.
What does a follow-up inspection cost after the EU inspection?
A follow-up inspection within the deadline is cheaper than a full new inspection. You'll get the exact price when you book — call 41 17 32 24.
Service and maintenance
Service and maintenance
Intervals, what's included and how long it takes.
How often should I service my car?
Generally every 15,000 km or once a year — whichever comes first. Check the service book for your exact interval.
What's included in a standard service?
Oil change with filter, check of air and cabin filter, fluid levels, brakes, suspension, exhaust, lights and electronics. We also reset the service indicator.
How long does a regular service take?
1–3 hours depending on the model and scope.
What's the difference between a minor and major service?
Minor service is oil, filter and inspection. Major service includes extras like gear oil, brake fluid, drive belts and spark plugs based on mileage.
Does the factory warranty stay valid if I don't use the dealer?
Yes. As an officially approved workshop using specified parts, we keep the factory warranty intact. We document all work digitally.
Do you service all car brands?
Yes. We have the expertise and diagnostic equipment for all brands — from Tesla and Volvo to BMW, Audi, VW, Toyota and Polestar.
How do I know when my car needs a service?
Modern cars have a service indicator on the dashboard. Book when it lights up, or once a year as a rule of thumb.
Can you show me what was done during the service?
Yes. You'll get a detailed digital service report documenting all work performed and any further recommendations.
What does a car service cost in Sandefjord?
The price varies with model and scope. We always give an estimate before we start — call 41 17 32 24 for a quote.
Can you update my service book?
Yes. We update both the physical and digital service book after the work — important for resale value and warranty retention.
Tires and tire hotel
Tires and tire hotel
Tire changes, tire hotel, tread depth and air pressure.
When do I need to switch to winter tires?
Winter tires are required from November 1 to the first Monday after Easter Monday when conditions demand it. Switch before the cold sets in — we recommend booking well in advance.
Do you offer tire storage (tire hotel)?
Yes. You leave your tires with us, and we handle washing, inspection, storage and seasonal swaps. You get priority booking at season changes.
How much does tire storage cost?
The price varies with tire dimensions and whether they're on rims or loose. Call 41 17 32 24 for an up-to-date price.
What's the minimum legal tread depth?
1.6 mm for summer tires and 3 mm for winter tires. We recommend changing before that — worn tread on winter tires especially gives much poorer grip.
What tire pressure should I use?
The recommended pressure is on the door pillar or inside the fuel cap. It varies by model and depends on load. Check cold tires — preferably once a month.
Can you balance my tires?
Yes. We balance all tires during tire changes, and can also do separate balancing jobs.
When should I get a wheel alignment?
If the car pulls to one side, you have wear on the inside or outside of the tire, or after a collision/curb hit. We recommend checking every 2 years.
What's the difference between studded and stud-free tires?
Studded tires give the best grip on ice and hard snow. Stud-free tires are better in city environments and save the roads. We'll help you choose based on your driving pattern.
When do you switch from winter to summer tires?
Usually from mid-April. Book well in advance — appointments around season changes are in high demand.
Do you sell tires and rims?
Yes. We supply tires from all major brands and can offer rims for both summer and winter use.
EV and hybrid
EV and hybrid
Service, battery and special requirements for EVs and hybrids.
Do you service EVs?
Yes. We have high-voltage expertise and equipment for EVs. Service includes battery diagnostics, check of the charging system, coolant and software where applicable.
How often does an EV need service?
Usually every 24 months or 30,000 km — less often than a combustion car. We follow the manufacturer's schedule for your brand.
What's checked at an EV service?
Battery condition, charging system, coolant, brakes (with caliper cleaning because regenerative braking means low wear), software updates and tires.
Do EVs need brake cleaning?
Yes, actually more often than you'd think. Regenerative braking means the mechanical brakes are barely used — this causes corrosion and seizes calipers. We recommend brake cleaning annually.
Do you do warranty repairs on EVs?
Yes, as long as we follow the manufacturer's specifications and use specified parts. You keep the factory warranty.
Can you charge the EV at the workshop?
Yes, we have charging facilities for EVs while they're with us. Just ask when booking.
Do you service hybrids?
Yes. Both plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and full hybrid (HEV) — we have experience with Toyota Hybrid, VW/Audi/Volvo PHEV and the BMW i-series.
What does an EV service cost?
Generally cheaper than combustion car service because there are fewer wear parts. Call 41 17 32 24 for an estimate on your model.
Can you replace an EV battery?
We diagnose the battery and work with the manufacturer's network for replacement under warranty where applicable. Contact us for assessment.
What's the difference between Tesla service and Volvo EV service?
Both brands require high-voltage expertise, but they use different diagnostic tools and specific procedures. We have equipment and routines for both.
Brakes, battery and engine
Brakes, battery and engine
Technical questions about common wear and fault areas.
How often do brake pads need replacing?
Usually every 30,000–60,000 km, but it depends heavily on driving style. We measure thickness at every service and warn you in good time.
Why are my brakes squealing?
The most common causes are worn brake pads, rust on the discs, or sand/dirt between pad and disc. Come in for a check — unfamiliar squeals shouldn't be ignored.
When do I need to replace the car battery?
A good car battery lasts 4–6 years. Signs of a weak battery are slow starts, dimming lights and a warning lamp on the dashboard. We test batteries for free at service.
What is a DPF and why does it fail?
DPF (diesel particulate filter) cleans the exhaust on diesel cars. Lots of city driving means the filter doesn't regenerate and can clog up. We do DPF cleaning and diagnostics.
What does the engine warning light mean?
A yellow engine light means something needs checking — drive carefully and book a diagnostic. A red light means stop and contact a workshop immediately.
Do I need to replace the timing belt?
Not all cars have a timing belt — some use a steel chain. On cars with a timing belt, it's usually replaced at 90,000–120,000 km. Check the service book or ask us.
How much oil should my engine use?
Modern engines shouldn't use more than about 0.5 liters per 1,000 km. Use above that is a sign of a fault — come in for diagnostics.
How long does a brake change take?
Brake pads take about 1–1.5 hours per axle. Replacing discs as well brings it to about 2–3 hours.
How often does coolant need replacing?
Usually every 4–5 years or 60,000 km. We check the coolant at service and notify you about replacement.
Why isn't my air conditioning cooling?
Most common: gas leak or dirty compressor. We do AC service with leak testing, refill refrigerant and replace the cabin filter as needed.
Pricing and invoicing
Pricing and invoicing
Estimates, payment and business invoicing.
Do I get a price quote before you start?
Yes, always. We give you an estimate before starting and notify you if anything extra comes up.
What payment methods do you accept?
Bank card, Vipps, cash and invoice for businesses. A SjekkPunkt account with credit up to 40,000 NOK is available for business customers.
Can businesses get an invoice in the company name?
Yes. We send EHF invoices to your accounting system, or PDF to email. Consolidated monthly invoices are possible for service agreement customers.
Do you offer credit?
Business customers can get credit up to 40,000 NOK on a SjekkPunkt account. Private customers must pay on pickup or via invoice with a credit check.
What does an hour's work cost at the workshop?
The hourly rate varies with the type of work. We always give a total estimate, not just an hourly rate — it makes comparing offers easier.
Do I get a discount as a business customer?
Yes. Business customers with a company-car agreement get tailored prices based on number of cars and volume.
Can I split the payment?
Yes, with a credit agreement. Ask at reception or call 41 17 32 24.
Are prices including VAT?
All prices are quoted including VAT for private customers. For businesses, prices are quoted excluding VAT.
Do I get an itemized invoice?
Yes. Every invoice shows work tasks, parts, hours and VAT itemized.
What does a loaner car cost?
A loaner car is not a standard offering at our workshop. Most jobs (EU inspection, tire change, minor service) are quick enough that waiting at the workshop or taking a stroll downtown works well. For larger repairs or longer stays we can in some cases help by arrangement — call 41 17 32 24 and we'll find a solution.
Booking and opening hours
Booking and opening hours
How to book and how the day unfolds.
How do I book an appointment?
Online via /bestill-time, by phone at 41 17 32 24, or via the contact form. Online booking is open 24/7.
What are your opening hours?
Monday to Friday 08:00–17:00. Closed Saturday and Sunday.
How far ahead do I need to book?
Common services usually get an appointment in the same week. Seasonal peaks (tire changes) need more notice — book 2–3 weeks ahead.
Can I cancel?
Yes. Let us know at least 24 hours before the appointment by phone or email. It helps us offer the slot to other customers.
Do I get a confirmation?
Yes. You get a confirmation via SMS and email immediately, and a reminder the day before.
Can I wait at the workshop?
Yes. We have a waiting area with coffee and Wi-Fi. EU inspections and oil changes are common to wait for.
Can I drop off the car the evening before?
Yes, by arrangement. We have a secure overnight key drop box.
Where is the workshop?
Bekkeveien 11, 3236 Sandefjord — central and easily reachable from the E18 motorway.
Do you have parking?
Yes, free customer parking on site.
Can I book by SMS?
Send an SMS to 41 17 32 24 and we'll call you back during opening hours. It's usually faster to book online.
Warranty and insurance
Warranty and insurance
Factory warranty, liability insurance and complaints.
Do I keep the factory warranty if I use you?
Yes. EU regulations and Norwegian consumer law give you free choice of workshop, as long as the workshop is officially approved and uses specified parts.
How long is the warranty on the work you do?
We give a minimum 12-month warranty on completed work and original parts. Details on the work order.
What if I'm not happy with the work?
Get in touch immediately. We review the case and correct any faults. As an officially approved workshop, we have established complaint routines.
Can I claim on spare parts?
Yes. Original parts come with at least a 12-month warranty, often longer. We handle the claim on your behalf.
Does the workshop have liability insurance?
Yes. We have full liability insurance covering unforeseen damage to the customer's car in our care.
What if the workshop damages my car?
We take full responsibility and our insurance covers the damage. We notify you immediately and document what happened.
Does the warranty hold if I use non-original parts?
It depends on the part. For safety-critical parts (brakes, suspension), we recommend original or OEM-spec parts. Always ask us if you're unsure.
What is the Block Exemption Regulation?
EU regulations giving independent workshops the same rights as authorized dealers — including access to diagnostic information and the right to maintain the factory warranty.
Can you handle the insurance claim?
Yes. We talk with your insurance company, prepare the calculation and document the case. It saves you time.
How long do I have to file a complaint?
Norwegian consumer law gives you a minimum of 2 years for ordinary goods/services and 5 years if the service has a longer expected lifespan (e.g. major repairs).
Company cars and business customers
Company cars and business customers
Service agreements, fleet service and tailored solutions.
What is a company car agreement?
A service agreement between a business and the workshop that includes priority booking, a dedicated contact, invoicing to the company and documented service history.
How many cars do we need to get an agreement?
No minimum — we tailor the agreement from a single company car to entire fleets.
Do we get a dedicated contact?
Yes. Every business customer gets one person who knows the fleet and your employees.
How do you minimize downtime for our company cars?
We prioritize company-car-agreement customers at booking, coordinate multiple cars at once where possible, and keep you informed throughout. Most jobs are resolved quickly so the employee is back on the road the same day. For larger repairs we can discuss practical solutions by arrangement — call 41 17 32 24.
What's included in the company car agreement?
Service, EU vehicle inspection, tire change, tire storage, repair and a documented overview of your entire fleet.
Do we get priority for urgent issues?
Yes. Businesses with a company car agreement always get priority — including for urgent faults.
Can you handle large fleets?
Yes. We have experience managing fleets for tradespeople, transport and service companies.
Do we get reports on the fleet status?
Yes. You get a monthly or quarterly report with service history, cost overview and upcoming intervals.
Do you offer a mobile workshop for agriculture?
Yes, for heavier machinery we drive out to the farm or business with complete diagnostic equipment.
How do we get started with a company car agreement?
Call 41 17 32 24 or visit /firmabilavtale-sandefjord. We set up a planning conversation and prepare an offer.
Sandefjord and practical matters
Sandefjord and practical matters
Location, transport and practical handling.
Where is Din Firmabil AS located?
Bekkeveien 11, 3236 Sandefjord — a short drive from both downtown Sandefjord and the E18 motorway.
How close can I park at the workshop?
There's free customer parking right at the entrance at Bekkeveien 11. Your car stays safe while we work, and you can pick it up fully invoiced during opening hours.
Do you take customers from Larvik and Tønsberg?
Yes. We have many customers from across Vestfold — Larvik, Tønsberg, Stokke, Andebu, Kodal and surrounding areas. Travel time is 15–25 minutes for most.
Do you offer a loaner car?
A loaner car is not a standard offering at our workshop. Most jobs (EU inspection, tire change, minor service) are quick enough that waiting at the workshop or taking a stroll downtown works well. For larger repairs or longer stays we can in some cases help by arrangement — call 41 17 32 24 and we'll find a solution.
Can I cycle to the workshop?
Yes, bicycle parking is available on site. We recommend agreeing in advance if you want to drop off the car and pick it up finished the same day.
Is there public transport to the workshop?
Sandefjord has bus routes passing close to Bekkeveien. You can also bike or walk from downtown — the trip takes 10–15 minutes.
Do you take machines and agricultural equipment?
Yes. We have a dedicated offering for machines and agriculture — both at the workshop and via a mobile workshop that drives out.
Can you transport the car if it doesn't run?
We can coordinate towing by arrangement. Call 41 17 32 24 and we'll help you forward.
How do I contact you in the evening?
Send a message via /kontakt-oss or SMS to 41 17 32 24 — we respond on the next business day.
Do you speak English?
Yes, we serve customers in both Norwegian and English.
Didn't find your answer?
Call us at 41 17 32 24 during opening hours, or send a message via the contact form — we respond quickly.
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