Regular car servicing is essential to keep your vehicle running smoothly, ensure safety on the road, and avoid costly repairs. If you’re wondering about the cost of car servicing in Ireland, how often you should service your car, or the differences between dealership and private services, this guide has all the details.

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How Much Is a Car Service in Ireland?

The cost of a car service in Ireland can vary significantly depending on the type of service, the make and model of your car, and the service provider. Here’s a general breakdown of prices:

• Interim Service: €80 – €150
• Full Service: €200 – €400
• Major Service: €400 – €600

What’s Included in a Car Service?

Understanding what’s covered in each service level can help you choose the right one:

• Interim Service: Includes essential checks like oil and filter changes, tyre pressure, brake inspection, and lights check. Ideal for regular drivers every 6,000 miles or six months.
• Full Service: Adds on more comprehensive checks, including fluid top-ups, battery inspection, air filter replacement, and checks on the suspension, brakes, and cooling system. Recommended every 12,000 miles or annually.
• Major Service: The most thorough service, covering everything in a full service plus gearbox and transmission checks, timing belt replacement (if needed), and more intensive checks on electrical and safety systems. Major services are usually recommended every 24,000 miles or two years.

Each of these services can vary in scope depending on the service provider, so it’s best to clarify what’s included before booking.

How Long Does a Car Service Take?

On average:

• Interim Service: 1 – 1.5 hours
• Full Service: 2 – 3 hours
• Major Service: 3 – 4 hours or more, depending on the vehicle type

A service’s duration can be impacted by factors like vehicle make, age, and complexity, as well as the thoroughness of the checks involved.

How Often Should I Service My Car?

The general recommendation is:

• Interim Service: Every 6 months or 6,000 miles
• Full Service: Annually or every 12,000 miles
• Major Service: Every 24,000 miles or two years

These intervals may vary based on how frequently you drive and the conditions. Keeping up with regular servicing not only maintains performance but also helps retain the car’s value.

What Happens if My Car Is Overdue for a Service?

If your car is overdue for servicing, you may experience reduced fuel efficiency, increased wear on your car, and a higher risk of breakdowns. Ignoring service intervals can lead to more expensive repairs down the line, especially if you overlook issues like worn brake pads, low fluid levels, or ageing timing belts. Regular service checks keep your car safe, prolong its life, and help avoid sudden repairs. If you find yourself in need of car recovery services due to breakdowns, we offer breakdown support across Ireland.

Different Car Brands and Service Pricing

Service costs can vary depending on the car brand. Luxury or high-end cars, like BMW or Mercedes, typically require specialised parts and expertise, making the costs higher than those of standard models, such as Toyota or Ford. Here’s a general range for popular brands in Ireland:

Main Dealer Service vs Private Garage Service

When choosing between a main dealer and a private garage for servicing, consider the following:

• Main Dealer: Generally offers specialised knowledge of your car brand, genuine parts, and maintains your full service history with the manufacturer. However, dealership services are usually more expensive.
• Private Garage: Often provides a more affordable service, and many independent garages offer quality service at lower prices. Be sure to choose a reputable garage with certified mechanics.

Both options have their pros and cons, so consider factors like budget, car age, and brand when making your decision.

Warranty Implications of Car Servicing

Keeping up with recommended service intervals is crucial if your car is still under warranty. Missing scheduled services or using non-approved parts may void your warranty, especially for newer vehicles. If your car is under warranty, check the terms to ensure you meet the requirements for service, including documentation from an approved service center.

For older cars out of warranty, regular servicing remains important, but you have more flexibility with service providers. 

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