Car servicing
Book a car service with a trusted local garage
Compare garages near you on price, reviews and availability with BookMyGarage, and book an interim, full or major service online. Booking is free and you usually pay the garage when the work is done.
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Service types
Interim, full or major: which service do you need?
Intervals vary by manufacturer and garage, so treat these as a guide and check your service book.
Interim service
Typically every 6 months or 6,000 miles
Oil and filter change, fluid top-ups, and checks on lights, tyres, brakes, steering and suspension.
Good for: High-mileage drivers between full services.
Full service
Typically every 12 months or 12,000 miles
Everything in an interim service plus more filters, a more detailed inspection and more components checked.
Good for: Most drivers, once a year.
Major service
Typically every 24 months or 24,000 miles
Everything in a full service plus items like spark plugs, brake fluid and other parts replaced on a longer schedule.
Good for: Every other year, or as your manufacturer's schedule requires.
Why regular servicing pays off
Servicing catches small problems before they become expensive ones: a worn brake pad is cheaper than a scored disc, and fresh oil protects the engine. A stamped service record also helps when you sell, because buyers pay more for a car that's been looked after.
Servicing and your warranty
You don't have to use a main dealer to keep your warranty. Under competition rules, carmakers generally can't restrict servicing to their own network, as long as the garage follows the manufacturer's schedule and uses suitable parts. Keep every invoice in case you need to show what was done.
Combine your service and MOT
Many drivers book their service and MOT together. It saves a second trip and, at some garages, money. If your MOT is due, see our MOT booking page and the MOT checklist. Not sure what each one covers? Read MOT vs service.
Service or repair due?
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Car service questions
How often should my car be serviced?
Follow your manufacturer's schedule in the handbook or service book. As a rough guide, many cars need a full service every 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Will using an independent garage affect my warranty?
Generally not, as long as the work follows the manufacturer's schedule and uses parts of matching quality. Competition rules mean carmakers can't usually insist you use the dealer network for servicing, though faulty work can still affect a claim.
Is a service the same as an MOT?
No. An MOT is a legal annual safety and emissions check. A service is maintenance that keeps your car reliable and is recommended by the manufacturer, but not legally required.
Does a service history add value to my car?
Yes. A full, documented service history reassures buyers and usually helps you get a better price when you sell.
Related guides
All guidesMOT vs Service: What's the Difference?
MOT vs service explained: an MOT is a yearly legal safety check, a service is maintenance. Compare what each covers, interim vs full service and when to book.
Read guideMOT Checklist: 20 Things to Check Before Your MOT
Our MOT checklist covers 20 quick pre-MOT checks, from bulbs and tyres to windscreen chips and warning lights, so you can fix easy faults before the test.
Read guideHow Much Does an MOT Cost in 2026?
How much does an MOT cost? The legal maximum is £54.85 for a car and many garages charge less. See fees by vehicle class, free retest rules and ways to save.
Read guide