COST GUIDES
Car service: Cost breakdown 2026
Updated 10/25
By: Content Team
Regularly servicing your car is the best way to keep it in top working condition. To help you plan your budget, we've put together this guide looking at the average car service cost in the UK.
Full car service costs
The average cost of a full car service in the UK ranges from £170 to £395
Interim car service
You can expect costs around £110
Additional costs
Any additional work that needs to be carried out will increase the total cost of the car service
Keep reading to learn more about the average car service price in the UK and what’s included in a car service.
How much does a car service cost in 2026?
The average car service cost in the UK is usually in the region of £170 to £395 – depending on the size of your car.
Below are some of the average estimated costs of a car service in the UK:
| Car service type | Average UK cost |
|---|---|
| Full service - small car | £170 |
| Full service - medium car | £210 |
| Full service - large car | £395 |
| Interim service | £110 |
| Major service | £210 |
| Oil and filter change | £100 |
| Last updated: March 2025 Our costs are ballpark averages - get a local tradesperson to quote now | |
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How much does a full service cost in the UK?
The cost of a full car service will depend on the size, make and model of your car – below are some average prices in the UK:
Small car full service – £170
Medium car full service – £210
Large car full service – £395
Want to combine your vehicle's MOT and service costs? Check out our guide on MOT costs.
Car service hourly rates
The hourly rate of a car service can range massively and can be anywhere in the region of £36 - 230 per hour – with higher rates in and around London.
You'll also find that hourly rates vary based on whether you use an independent garage or a national dealership:
Independent garages – £56 per hour
Dealerships – £99 per hour
For accurate car service hourly rates near you, it's sensible to get quotes from at least three car servicing specialists who operate in your area.
Cost of a full service vs interim service
A full service will nearly always be more expensive than an interim service – excluding parts.
When it comes to car services in the UK, there are four main types, depending on the garage or mechanic you go to:
Oil and filter change (average cost £100) – This is the lowest level service where your vehicle's the engine oil is drained and replaced with new oil, and the oil filter is replaced with a new one
Interim service (average cost £110) – Recommended for every 6,000 miles (or every 6 months) and usually includes an oil and filter change and an inspection of the main parts of your car
Full service (average cost £170) – Recommended every year (or every 12,000 miles) and covers everything a basic service will but in more detail
Major service (average cost £210) – The most comprehensive type of car service, recommended every two years (or 24,000 miles) and involves a thorough check of the vehicle
If you're not sure which type of service you need, speak to reputable car servicing garages in your area for their professional advice and guidance.
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Factors affecting car service prices
Several factors can affect the price you pay for your car service, including:
Make and model of your car
Size of the car
Age of the car
Current mileage
Any repairs or work that needs to be done
Type and quality of any parts that need changing
Where you live
When speaking to garages or mechanics about your car service, ask for a clear breakdown of what's included in the price. That will help you understand what you're paying for.
Hidden car service costs to watch out for
When budgeting for your car service, here are some hidden costs you might want to factor in:
Additional labour charges for unexpected repairs
Replacement parts not included in the original quote
Diagnostic fees for time spending finding issues (often using digital tools)
Top-ups or replacements of fluids like coolant, brake fluid, or oil outside standard service
Environmental/disposal fees for old oil or filters
VAT – if it's not included in the quoted costs
Check out our top tips on finding a good mechanic or car garage.
What’s included in a car service?
A car service is a routine check-up of the car to ensure it has no major problems. It also includes maintenance work required to keep it running smoothly. This includes:
Engine oil and oil filter check
Lights, tyres, bodywork and exhaust checks
Brakes and steering check
Fluid and coolant level checks
Suspension check
Car battery check
If your car needs any worn or damaged parts replaced, you’ll need to cover the cost of the parts and the extra labour, which can significantly increase the total service cost.
Wondering what to expect from a car service? Read our guide to getting your car serviced.
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Car service cost checklist
Keep a log of when you have your car serviced so you know when it is next due
Track your mileage so you know if you need to have a car service earlier than planned
Speak to experienced mechanics or garages for accurate quotes
Remember to ask what's included in each level of service, the details may vary between garages
Expect to pay more for a car service for larger vehicles
Always shop around for fair and competitive car service costs
Use a reputable garage with qualified mechanics and, if in doubt, ask to see their relevant qualifications and/or accreditations
FAQs
How often should you service your car?
For the average driver, it’s recommended that you book your car in for a service at least once every 12 months - or every 12,000 miles (whichever comes first). For drivers who cover a lot of miles (15,000+ per year), it’s worth having a car service every 6 months. If in doubt, speak to car service specialists who operate in your area for their advice.
What happens if I don't service my car regularly?
One of the main benefits of having your car serviced regularly is that you avoid small problems becoming major issues for your car. By keeping your car in good working order you can minimise the amount you have to spend on it. Here are some of the costs for major repairs that could come as a result of poor maintenance and not having regular car service.
Replacing a radiator – £450
Replacing a water pump – £250
An engine exchange – £2,600
Replacing a cylinder head gasket – £540
Top tip... Keep track of when you have your car serviced and your mileage so you know when to book your next car service.
Is a full car service worth it?
Yes, we think so. Keeping your car in good working order is important to avoid costly repairs from excessive wear and tear. A full car service will help you spot issues before they become more damaging to your vehicle. As shown above, major repairs cost a lot more than the price of a full car service – so, in our opinion, it's worth carrying out an annual full car service (or every 12,000 miles).
Do you need to service your car every year?
As we've mentioned above, regular car servicing is the best way to avoid needing major repairs for your car. For most drivers, a service once a year is enough. But, if you drive more than 12,000-15,000+ miles per year then you might want to have a service every 6 months.
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