The cost of car services in the UK can vary widely depending on factors such as the make and model of the car, the type of service, and the location of the garage.
Here’s a breakdown of common types of car services and what they generally include, along with estimated cost ranges:
1. Interim Service (or Basic Service)
Cost: £150
What’s Included:
- Oil and oil filter change
- Fluid checks and top-ups (engine coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, etc.)
- Checking tyre pressure and tread depth
- Checking and replacing air filters (if needed)
- Inspection of brakes, lights, and other essential components
- Visual inspection of belts and hoses
- Basic checks on exhaust system, steering, and suspension
When to Get It: Typically every 6 months or 6,000 miles, depending on how much you drive.
2. Full Service (or Major Service)
Cost: £250 (can be more for premium vehicles)
What’s Included:
- All items in the interim service
- Changing spark plugs (if applicable)
- Replacing the air filter (if needed)
- Full inspection of the braking system (pads, discs, etc.)
- Inspection and possible replacement of the timing belt
- Detailed inspection of the exhaust system
- Checking suspension, steering, and other key components
- Inspection of battery and electrical system
- Oil and oil filter change
- Fluid level checks and top-ups (including transmission fluid, coolant, etc.)
When to Get It: Every 12 months or 12,000 miles, or as specified in the car’s manual.
3. MOT (Ministry of Transport) Test
Cost: £50
What’s Included:
- A comprehensive inspection of essential vehicle safety and emissions systems
- Checks include lights, brakes, tires, suspension, exhaust, and emissions systems
- The car's bodywork and chassis are checked for rust or damage
- Ensures the car meets UK roadworthiness and environmental standards
When to Get It: Annually for vehicles that are 3 years old or more.
4. Cambelt/Timing Belt Replacement
Cost: £500 (can be higher for certain models)
What’s Included:
- The timing belt is an essential component that ensures the engine's moving parts are properly synchronized
- Depending on the car, this might also include replacing related components like water pumps, tensioners, and pulleys
When to Get It: Typically between 60,000 and 100,000 miles, but this depends on the car manufacturers recommendation.
5. Brake Fluid Change
Cost: £50
What’s Included:
- Draining and replacing the brake fluid to ensure efficient braking performance
- Checking the condition of the braking system (pads, discs)
When to Get It: Every 2 years, or as recommended by the car manufacturer.
6. Air Conditioning Service
Cost: £100
What’s Included:
- Checking and refilling the refrigerant
- Cleaning or replacing the cabin air filter
- Inspecting the air conditioning system for leaks or faults
When to Get It: Every 2 years, or if the air conditioning isn’t performing optimally.
7. Transmission Service
Cost: £250
What’s Included:
- Checking and replacing the transmission fluid
- Inspecting for leaks or signs of wear
- Some services may include cleaning or replacing the transmission filter
When to Get It: Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on the type of transmission and car model.
Additional Costs:
- Tyre Replacement: Typically £40 to £200 per tyre, depending on the brand and vehicle.
- Wheel Alignment: £40 to £75, if needed.
- Suspension Repairs: Can range from £100 to £1,000, depending on the nature of the repair and the vehicle.
Factors That Influence the Cost of Car Services:
- Make and Model: Premium brands like BMW, Audi, and Mercedes can cost more for both parts and labour.
- Location: Garages in larger cities may charge higher rates for labour compared to those in rural areas.
- Service Provider: Independent garages may be cheaper than main dealer services,
- It's always a good idea to shop around and get a few quotes, and also ensure that the garage is reputable. Many garages offer service packages for annual servicing, which can save money in the long term.
Spidersnet