How to Save Money on Car Servicing in the UK: Practical Tips That Actually Work
Keeping your car properly serviced can extend its life, reduce your risk of breakdowns, and even improve fuel economy — but it doesn’t always come cheap.
Whether you're a new driver or trying to cut back on running costs, this guide shares realistic, UK-specific tips to help you save money on car servicing without cutting corners on safety or quality.
Why Car Servicing Costs Vary So Much
The price of a car service in the UK depends on several factors, including:
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Your car’s make, model, and age
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Whether you’re booking an interim, full, or major service
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Your location (London and city centres are usually more expensive)
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Labour rates at the garage
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The type of oil or filters your car requires
A full service typically costs between £150–£300, but there are ways to reduce that cost — or at least make sure you’re getting real value for money.
1. Don’t Always Go to the Main Dealer
If your car is no longer under a manufacturer’s warranty, you’re not obliged to return to the dealership for servicing. In fact, independent garages are often significantly cheaper, especially for older vehicles.
Look for a garage that is:
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VAT-registered
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Part of a recognised scheme (like Trust My Garage, Good Garage Scheme, or RAC Approved Garages)
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Transparent with pricing and quotes
2. Book Your MOT and Service Together
Many garages offer discounts when you book an MOT and service at the same time. You could save £20–£50 compared to booking them separately.
This also:
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Saves you time and effort
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Allows the garage to complete any minor repairs in one go
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Can improve your chances of passing the MOT if the service highlights any issues early
3. Use Comparison Tools and Online Booking Platforms
Don’t just call your nearest garage — check online platforms like:
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Halfords Autocentre
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Kwik Fit
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BookMyGarage
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WhoCanFixMyCar
These sites let you compare prices, read customer reviews, and sometimes lock in special offers that aren’t available if you walk in or phone up.
4. Learn the Difference Between Service Types
If you're doing low mileage each year, you might not need a full service every 12 months. Many providers offer:
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Interim service – usually every 6 months or 6,000 miles
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Full service – recommended every 12 months or 12,000 miles
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Major service – more comprehensive, recommended every 2 years
Understanding the differences means you won’t overpay for services you don’t actually need.
5. Avoid Dealer-Only Add-Ons
Garages sometimes recommend extra services like:
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Air conditioning recharges
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Fuel system cleaning
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Premium oil upgrades
Some of these may be helpful depending on your car, but they’re often not essential every year. Ask for a breakdown and prioritise what really matters for your mileage and vehicle type.
6. Check for Manufacturer Service Plans or Club Discounts
Some manufacturers and nationwide providers offer fixed-price service plans or discounts for older cars.
Also, if you’re a member of:
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The AA or RAC
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Costco
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A motoring loyalty club
…you may be entitled to exclusive garage discounts or cashback offers. It’s worth checking your membership benefits.
7. Provide Your Own Parts (Where Allowed)
In some cases, garages allow you to supply your own oil or filters, particularly if you're trying to keep costs down. You’ll pay only for labour, and you can source quality parts online for less.
⚠️ Important: Always check with the garage in advance, and make sure you’re supplying the correct specification for your vehicle.
8. Stick to the Service Schedule
The best way to avoid expensive bills? Keep up with your car’s service schedule.
Delaying services might seem like a saving now — but it can lead to:
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Engine wear from old oil
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Brake or suspension damage
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Tyre issues or uneven wear
This can cause higher repair costs down the line and might even result in an MOT failure.
FAQs About Saving on Car Servicing
Can I skip a service if my car seems fine?
Not recommended. Skipping services can lead to hidden wear and tear that results in bigger problems (and costs) later on.
Will I void my warranty if I don’t use the dealer?
Not if the garage uses manufacturer-approved parts and follows the official service schedule. Check your warranty terms to be safe.
Are mobile servicing options cheaper?
Sometimes. Mobile mechanics can offer competitive rates as they don’t have garage overheads — but it depends on the job and location.
What if I service my car late?
A few weeks’ delay won’t usually harm the car, but long gaps increase the risk of mechanical issues and reduce resale value.
Do electric cars need servicing too?
Yes — they still need brakes, tyres, coolant, and diagnostics checked, even if there’s no oil change. The cost is usually lower though.
Final Thoughts
Servicing your car doesn’t have to break the bank. By shopping around, combining bookings, and understanding what your vehicle really needs, you can save money while keeping your car safe, legal, and reliable.
The key is being proactive — not waiting for a problem before you book in.
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