Understanding the Costs of a Full Car Service in Ireland: What to Expect
Keeping your car in peak condition is vital for safety, reliability, and long-term cost savings. A full car service typically starts at €99, depending on your location and service provider (Like one of our AA Approved Service centres). However, beyond the basic service, many hidden costs can arise due to maintenance issues people often overlook. Let’s explore what’s included in a full car service, the unexpected extras, and why cutting corners is never a good idea…. unless you wan’t to end up on the side of a motorway needing our assistance of course 😉
What Does a Full Car Service Include?
A standard car service will cover checks and maintenance of essential components like:
- Complimentary Vehicle Health Check
- Engine Oil & Filter change
- Air Filter Change
- Fuel Filter Change (Diesel Models Only)
- Spark Plugs (Petrol Models Only – Excluding cars over 200bhp (Performance Vehicles not included and will be priced accordingly)
- Pollen Filter Change
- Coolant & Brake Fluid Top up
- Battery & System Diagnostic
- + much more
While these basics keep your car running smoothly, other elements not included in a standard service can add up over time & if there is an issue it might be wise to get it fixed as soon as possible to avoid it turning into a bigger problem.
Hidden Costs Beyond the Basics in Car Servicing
Many car owners are surprised by additional costs that can crop up outside a typical service. These include:
Tyres
Worn or damaged tyres are not covered in a regular service. Replacing them can cost anywhere from €60 to over €150 per tyre, depending on the size and type.
Brakes (Pads and Discs)
Brake pads usually need replacement every 20,000-50,000 km, with costs ranging from €80 to €200+. Brake discs, if worn, can cost significantly more.
Wipers
While seemingly minor, replacing wiper blades is crucial for visibility and safety, with costs ranging from €20 to €50 depending on the type.
New Battery
A failing battery might not be caught during a routine service. Replacing it can set you back €100 to €250, depending on the model.
Spark Plugs
Essential for engine performance, spark plugs often go unnoticed until there’s a problem. Replacements can cost €50 to €150.
Timing Belt
Replacing a timing belt is a major expense but vital to prevent engine damage, often costing €400 to €1,000.
Where Never to Cut Corners when getting your car serviced
When considering costs, there are critical areas where you should never compromise:
Brakes: These are life-saving components. Always ensure pads and discs are in top condition.
Tyres: Bald or damaged tyres reduce grip, especially in wet conditions, and are illegal under Irish law (The minimum permitted tyre tread depth is 1.6 mm). You can check your tyre depth at home. Insert the edge of a €1 coin into the tread grooves. If the gold rim of the coin is visible above the tread, the depth is likely less than 1.6 mm, and the tyre needs replacing. Read More.
Engine Health: Regular oil and filter changes are cheaper than repairing engine damage caused by neglect.
Lights and Wipers: Visibility is key for your safety and other road users.
Finding the Right Garage Near You
When searching for “car servicing” or a “car garage near me,” ensure you choose a trusted provider. Throughout Ireland, AA Approved service centres are known for transparency, quality, and competitive pricing. You can book a service online and rest assured that your vehicle is in expert hands.
