How Much Does Car Service Cost in 2025?
Quick Answer: The cost of a car service in the UK typically ranges from £80 for a basic interim check to £400 or more for a major service on premium models. On average, UK drivers pay between £150 and £300 for a standard full service that keeps their car safe, efficient, and roadworthy.
Regular car servicing is one of the smartest ways to save money over the lifetime of your vehicle. It can prevent costly breakdowns, maintain fuel efficiency, keep your warranty intact, and help preserve resale value. In this guide, we break down average car servicing costs in 2025, explain exactly what’s included, show how to reduce expenses without compromising quality, and answer the most frequently asked questions UK drivers have about car servicing.
Average Car Service Costs in the UK
| Type of Service | Low-End Cost | Average Cost | High-End Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Interim Service | £80 | £120 | £150 |
| Full Service | £150 | £200–£250 | £300 |
| Major Service | £250 | £300–£350 | £400+ |
Remember, these prices vary by make and model. Luxury cars like BMW, Audi or Mercedes-Benz generally cost more to service due to higher parts and labour rates. Similarly, London and the South East often see higher prices than rural areas.
Real UK Garage Prices — Correct as of 9th July 2025
| Location / Source | Price / Price Range | Garage / Source |
|---|---|---|
| National (Airtasker) | £160–£390 (avg £275) | Airtasker |
| England (Cinch) | £149 (fixed rate full service cost) | Cinch |
| UK Interim vs Full (RAC) | Full: £170–£400 | Interim: ~½ cost | RAC Drive |
| Dealer vs Local (Reddit) | Main dealer: £500 vs Local: £150 | Reddit UK service quote |
| UK Luxury Brands First 3 years | £1,800 approx over 3 years | Bimmerpost (BMW M2 example) |
Service prices vary by location, vehicle type, and whether you opt for interim, full, or dealer-level servicing. Always request quotes locally to get the most accurate comparison.
What’s Included in a Typical Car Service?
Many drivers wonder what they’re paying for when they book a car service. While the checklist can vary slightly by garage and service level, here’s what’s usually covered:
- Oil and Filter Change: Vital for engine health. Old oil is drained, replaced with fresh oil, and the oil filter is swapped out.
- Brake Checks: Pads, discs and fluid are checked and topped up if needed. Worn pads may be flagged for replacement.
- Fluid Top-Ups: Coolant, screen wash, brake fluid, and power steering fluid are checked and refilled.
- Engine Inspection: Visual checks for leaks, worn belts and unusual noises.
- Battery Test: Voltage and condition are tested to prevent unexpected flat batteries.
- Lights and Wipers: All bulbs, indicators and wiper blades are inspected to keep you legal and safe.
- Tyre Pressure and Tread: Tyres are checked for wear and inflated to the recommended pressure.
- Road Test: A short drive ensures everything runs smoothly under real conditions.
- Service Stamp: Your service book is stamped and updated, which is crucial for warranty and resale value.
Watch: What Happens During a Car Service
How to Save Money on Car Servicing
With prices rising everywhere, it’s wise to know a few tricks to reduce your car service cost. Here are realistic, proven tips:
- Compare multiple quotes: Don’t accept the first price — use comparison sites or call a few local garages for quotes.
- Use an independent garage: They can be up to 30% cheaper than main dealers but still use approved parts.
- Stick to the schedule: Servicing on time helps avoid bigger repairs down the road.
- Combine with your MOT: Many garages offer discounts when you book both together.
- Keep up with DIY basics: Regularly check your oil, coolant and tyre pressures between services.
- Look for service plans: Some garages and dealerships offer fixed-price plans spread over monthly payments.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I service my car?
Most cars need a full service once every 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. High mileage drivers may need an interim service every 6 months. Always check your owner’s manual for your specific schedule.
Is a service the same as an MOT?
No. An MOT checks legal roadworthiness only; a service keeps your car running well and helps catch problems early. It’s best to do both every year to avoid fines, breakdowns and expensive repairs.
What happens if I skip servicing?
Skipping a service can void your warranty, increase the chance of breakdowns and reduce fuel efficiency. Small issues can turn into costly repairs if left unchecked. In the long run, servicing saves money.
How long does a car service take?
An interim service usually takes around 1.5 hours. A full or major service can take 2–4 hours, depending on what’s included and if parts need replacing.
Related Guides
Stay safe, save money and protect your car’s value — book your service today!
Other Relevant Articles
How much does an oil change cost in the UK?
An oil change is one of the most common and essential components of any general service, helping keep your engine clean and efficient.
How much does spark plug replacement cost in the UK?
Spark plugs are typically inspected or replaced during a full service to maintain optimal combustion and engine performance.
How much does clutch replacement cost in the UK?
A slipping or worn clutch might be spotted during a general service, especially if your gearbox feels off or acceleration is sluggish.
How much does suspension repair cost in the UK?
During a car service, technicians often check your suspension system for wear, as it directly affects handling and tyre wear.
How much does wheel alignment cost in the UK?
If uneven tyre wear is noticed during a service, a wheel alignment is usually recommended to improve handling and tyre longevity.
How much does timing belt replacement cost in the UK?
A timing belt doesn’t need frequent replacement, but regular servicing helps identify signs of wear before major engine damage occurs.
How much does head gasket repair cost in the UK?
Your mechanic may spot early signs of head gasket failure — such as coolant leaks or engine misfires — during a standard inspection.
How much does alternator replacement cost in the UK?
A weak battery or flickering lights found during servicing may point to a failing alternator that needs replacing.
How much does car battery replacement cost in the UK?
Testing the car battery’s voltage and performance is often included in general services, especially before winter.
How much does wheel bearing replacement cost in the UK?
If there’s any humming or vibration while driving, a service may uncover a worn wheel bearing that needs attention.
How much does EGR valve replacement cost in the UK?
Modern services include emissions checks that may reveal faults in the EGR valve, especially if the engine runs rough.