How Much Is a Full Car Service in the UK (2025 Costs Explained)

Regular servicing keeps your car reliable, safe, and fuel-efficient. But with prices rising in 2025, UK drivers are asking one key question — how much is a full car service?


This guide breaks down the average costs for interim, full, and major services, explains what each includes, and offers money-saving tips. Whether you drive a city hatchback, SUV, or performance car, knowing what to expect helps avoid surprises at the garage.


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What Is a Car Service?


A car service is a routine inspection and maintenance check carried out by qualified mechanics to keep your vehicle roadworthy. Unlike an MOT (which is a legal test), servicing is preventive maintenance that keeps your car in top condition and avoids future repairs.


There are typically three types of car services:





























Type Recommended Interval Typical Cost (2025 avg.) Includes
Interim Service Every 6 months / 6,000 miles £90–£150 Basic checks – oil, filters, lights, fluids, tyres
Full Service Every 12 months / 12,000 miles £160–£280 Comprehensive 50+ point inspection
Major Service Every 24 months / 24,000 miles £300–£600 Full checks + spark plugs, brake fluid, air filters, belts


How Much Is a Full Car Service in 2025?


The average cost of a full car service in the UK is between £180 and £260, depending on:



  1. Car make and model – Premium and imported vehicles cost more (e.g., BMW, Audi, Mercedes).

  2. Garage type – Franchised dealerships are typically 25–40% more expensive than local independents.

  3. Location – London and the South East generally have higher labour rates.

  4. Engine type – Diesel and hybrid cars require more filters and diagnostic time.

  5. Age of vehicle – Older cars often need more replacements and labour hours.


What’s Included in a Full Service?


A Full Service covers 50–70 checks and replacements to ensure your vehicle’s reliability and efficiency.


Typical inclusions:



  • Engine oil and oil filter change


  • Air and cabin filter replacement


  • Brake inspection and fluid top-up


  • Steering, suspension, and shock absorber checks


  • Tyre pressure and tread depth inspection


  • Lights, battery, and horn tests


  • Coolant and antifreeze top-up


  • Exhaust, belts, and clutch inspection


Ways to Save on Car Servicing



  1. Compare quotes — Use sites like WhoCanFixMyCar or ClickMechanic to compare nearby garages.


  2. Bundle MOT & Service — Combining both can save 15–25%.


  3. Use independent garages — Certified independents offer the same quality at lower rates.


  4. Stick to the schedule — Regular servicing prevents costly breakdowns later.


  5. Provide your own oil/filters — If allowed, can save £20–£40.


  6. Check dealer promotions — Many brands offer capped-price servicing on older models.


Full vs Major Service – What’s the Difference?



































Aspect Full Service Major Service
Frequency Every 12 months Every 24 months
Checks 50–70 70–90
Cost £160–£280 £300–£600
Key extras Oil, filters, brakes Spark plugs, brake fluid, timing belt
Best for Annual maintenance Long-term reliability and warranty compliance


A major service adds deeper component checks like timing belt, fuel filters, transmission fluid, and spark plug replacement, which ensure long-term performance.


Service Cost Examples by Vehicle Type






























Vehicle Type Average 2025 Full Service Cost Notes
Small city car (e.g., Ford Fiesta, Corsa) £150–£200 Minimal parts & quick labour
SUV / crossover (e.g., Kia Sportage, Nissan Qashqai) £200–£280 Higher oil capacity & filter costs
Premium saloon (e.g., BMW 3 Series, Audi A4) £250–£400 Specialist parts & diagnostic charges
Electric vehicle £100–£180 Fewer moving parts; no oil, but battery checks required


What to Do After a Service



  • Review your service book and ensure all checks are stamped and dated.


  • Ask for a printout of diagnostics or replaced parts.


  • Keep your number plates clean — a small detail that ensures your car stays legal and MOT-ready.


  • Plan your next service using the date reminder in your service log.


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Every 12 months or 12,000 miles for most vehicles. Check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.


No. An MOT checks if your car meets safety and emissions standards, while a service maintains performance and reliability.


Typically 1.5–3 hours, depending on garage workload and the vehicle’s age.


Yes, but skipping regular servicing increases the risk of breakdowns and can void your warranty.


Yes, but costs are lower — typically £100–£180 for system checks, battery health, and software updates.


A full car service in 2025 typically costs £180–£260 in the UK, but can vary based on model, garage, and region. Staying consistent with servicing keeps your car efficient, safe, and valuable for resale.


Quick Recap:



  • Interim: every 6 months (£90–£150)


  • Full: every 12 months (£180–£260)


  • Major: every 24 months (£300–£600)


  • Always check quotes & combine MOT + service for best value.


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