Interim, full or major service — which one do you actually need?
Servicing isn't legally required, but it protects your warranty, your resale value and your wallet. Which tier you need comes down to mileage and time since the last one.
Interim service (£90–£150)
Every six months or 6,000 miles for high-mileage drivers. Oil and filter, plus a check of around 35 items — lights, brakes, tyres, fluids and belts.
Full service (£150–£280)
Every 12 months or 12,000 miles. Everything in the interim, plus air filter, fuel filter, spark plugs on many petrol cars, and a deeper inspection of around 60 items.
Major service (£280–£450)
Every two years. Adds items on longer replacement intervals — brake fluid, coolant, cabin filter and, on some cars, transmission oil. Cambelts are separate and priced by engine.
How to keep the cost honest
Ask for a written quote before work starts, ask to see replaced parts, and confirm whether the price includes VAT. Any garage that won't call you before doing extra work isn't the right one.