This is a common question we see circulating on the internet, and I’ll be honest, there isn’t a definite answer. The total costs of a full service will vary due to several factors, including the car size and age.
In this article we will show you what a full car service includes, the average costs, and other key considerations.
What Does A Full Car Service Include?
You will find that most full car services include a large range of checks to your car, including:
- Engine
- Bodywork
- Radiator
- Wheels and tyres
- Spark plugs
- Antifreeze and coolant
- Timing and drive belts
- Fans
- Alternator
- Clutch
- Brakes
- Gearbox operation
- And more!
It is a very precise and extensive process where fluids and filters will be replaced where needed and they will repair any minor faults uncovered. If larger, unexpected repairs or parts replacements are needed, you will need to pay extra.
What Is The Average Cost Of A Full Car Service?
The average cost of a full car service can vary massively from several factors. These can be – the outstanding warranty your vehicle may have, the quality of service (typically, official car manufacturers, e.g. Ford, will charge more for their service than a village garage), the date or time, and lastly, the vehicle make and model.
From carrying out research from Checkatrade, Fixter, and Confused.com, we estimate that a full car service should cost the following:
- Small car: £155
- Medium car: £205
- Large car: £395
The above averages are solely for a full service only. They don’t include any unexpected repairs, replacements, or new parts needed for the vehicle. Also, many garages that offer a complete car service won’t necessarily provide you with these exact prices. Some may be more expensive, others may be cheaper.
As you can see, a full car service can cost a fair amount of money. So, if you are buying a second-hand car, you should ask when it last had one!
What To Consider When Choosing A Service Provider
Here’s what you should consider before finalising your car service provider.
- Do you want an official service? This is from the car dealer who manufactures your car, such as Ford, Fiat, etc. These will be the most expensive but tend to be a “premium” service and are generally tied to your warranty.
- When do you want your car service finished? If workers have to stay late or during the weekend, this can sometimes increase the price.
- Don’t just ask one garage. Ask multiple within your area for a quotation. Here you’ll be able to get a rough estimate of how much it’ll be, and you can go from there.
- Remember, cheaper isn’t always better. Be sure you get your service completed by a reputable dealer to ensure they’ll perform quality work.
- If someone else pays for your car, it is worthwhile asking if they bought or leased the car. If it is leased, your service may likely be covered as part of the contract.
Where Are the Cheapest Places To Get A Car Service?
As we have mentioned above, there is no single place that will offer you the cheapest service. You may find that a garage 30 miles away from you may cost £30 less, however, you would then need to pay for fuel and your time. Therefore, is it worth it?
Although prices will vary massively throughout the whole of the UK, you can still save time by using dedicated car service comparison sites. One that we personally suggest using is Book My Garage. You’ll need to enter your postcode and car registration number, and it’ll provide you with a list of garages near your area that offer full car services. You can then compare the costs of them all and find the best deal.
Top Tip – Undoubtedly, this website will take a small cut of the sale if you purchase through their website. Therefore, it is likely that if you contact the cheapest company directly, you may be to negotiate a lower rate.
James Banerjee is an Account Director who graduated from the University of Kent in 2014. He works in SEO on clients such as HSBC UK and Nestle and he has a keen interest in personal finances and money-saving advice.