For drivers, car servicing is an important habit to get in to. This may sound like another item on a long to-do list, but regular servicing keeps your vehicle efficient, reliable, and may save you money in the long run.

But what is a service, how much does it cost, and is it a legal requirement? Bumper’s complete guide to car servicing has all the answers.

What is an interim service?

An interim service checks all fluids and parts that need replacing frequently. Typically, the cost of an interim service includes checking:

• Battery
• Bonnet catch
• Boot
• Brake fluid
• Brakes
• Coolant
• Doors
• Electrics
• Engine diagnostics code
• Engine oil and filter
• Fuel cap
• Horn
• Lights
• Screen washer fluid
• Seatbelts
• Steering
• Suspension
• Tyres
• Warning lights
• Windscreen wipers

Related Reading: What's An OBD Port?

What’s included in a full service?

In addition to fast-wearing parts and fluids, the cost of an interim service will check for:

• Air conditioning
• Air filter
• Drive belt
• Drive shaft
• Duel pipes
• Exhaust
• Power steering
• Radiator

Do I need a full or interim service and how often should I book in?

It’s generally recommended that you take your car for a full service once a year. However, if you drive more than 2,000 miles per month it is a good idea to book an interim service in between.

You should also book in for an interim service if you notice your vehicle isn’t performing as it should be.

Regular servicing is the best way to keep your car performing as it should, reduce breakdowns and maintain safety. Learn more about whether servicing is worth it, here. 

How much does a car service cost?

There are a few factors that determine the cost of a service, including: type of service (as already discussed), outstanding warranty, quality of service, size of engine, availability of workshop, and the make and model of the vehicle.

Cars with more readily available and cheaper parts like Ford Fiesta and VW Golf will tend to have lower-cost services, whereas performance vehicles and electric vehicles may be on the more expensive end of servicing.

If your car is still under warranty, it is important to follow the service schedule of the manufacturer, or you may risk voiding your warranty.

Average cost of an interim service

• Prices rage from £80 to £200
• Average cost is £119

Average cost of a full service

• Prices range from £133 to £300
• Average cost is £151

How much is an MOT and service?

Some garages will offer a discount for booking an MOT and service together. As well as saving you heaps of time this can also help to keep your car more efficient as more regular checks on your vehicle will result in greater performance.

The maximum MOT fee set by the government is £54.85 for a car and £29.65 for a standard motorcycle. Typically, garages will charge around £30 for just the MOT but discounts for booking together vary a lot from garage to garage. We were able to find a promotion on Google for as little as £10. However, most were around £20.

Remember, you will have the cost of any repairs on top of the fee for an MOT and service. The average cost of an MOT including the fee and cost of repairs is £326.85.

Is it illegal to not service your car?

Unlike an MOT test you are not legally required to service your car. However, it is generally recommended that you take your car for a full service once every 12 months to maintain performance and safety.

How to check a vehicle’s service history?

A vehicle’s service history is a good way to tell how well a vehicle has been maintained. This can be extremely helpful when buying or selling a used car.

The first place to check a car’s service history is in the service history booklet, which should have been completed after each service.

If the owner doesn’t have a service history booklet you can check with the dealership and request a copy. It is important to note that if the previous owner has completed a service elsewhere, the main dealer won’t have a record of this.

Split the cost of your next service bill with Bumper

Bumper lets you spread the cost of servicing, repairs, parts, and accessories completely interest-free. Available at 1000s of trusted partner garages nationwide, you can apply to get pre-approved for up to £3,000. Start your application by entering your registration on our homepage.