Can't say I agree with you on the "Numnuts" statement. Just because you take the car to an independent mechanic does not guarantee the quality. Yes. I know you would probably then say, well I will then not use that mechanic again, but the fact is, there are sharks out there, and in such cases, you are then the guy stuck in the middle of an argument between Jeep and the mechanic.
To give an example, we also own a VW Golf, which we now get serviced independently. A few services ago, they told us the front brakes needed replacing, and charged us for it. The following service, they told us the same thing. When questioned, they said they made a mistake, and they must have done the rear brakes previously. Now that is a simple example, how a well recognised workshop in our area can get it wrong. I ended up doing the brakes myself.
Also, the independent mechanic cannot upgrade the ECU, is unaware of TSB's, and would most likely use generic brand parts. Unless you supplied the oil, there is most likely a chance they will not use the grade applicable. I know you face the same issues with a dealer, but just saying.
Another point is that those with car leases may not necessarily have a choice to bypass a dealership.
It is not acceptable that the dealers both rip you off on pricing and that they do inferior work, or just simply do not do the work they charge you for. I cannot really understand why they are able to get away with it.