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WhatItCosts

Guide · 5 min read

Minor service, major service and the garage you choose

A minor service is oil and inspection. A major service adds filters, fluids and wear items. The invoice should say which one you received.

Updated

Minor and major are different jobs

A minor service usually covers engine oil, an oil filter and a multi-point inspection. A major service adds air and cabin filters, brake fluid, coolant and other wear items. Ask for the itemised list before approving the work.

Dealer and independent garages price differently

A dealer has manufacturer training and original parts; an independent garage may use original-equipment or aftermarket parts. Compare the parts brand, the warranty and the labour rate, not just the total.

Parts quality is a real variable

Original-equipment parts, equivalent-brand parts and low-cost aftermarket parts are not the same product. Ask which one is being fitted and whether the warranty covers the part and the labour.

Heat and service intervals

High temperatures and short trips can be harder on oil and fluids than the handbook’s ideal interval. Follow the manufacturer’s schedule for your market and ask the garage what it recommends for your driving.

Keep the invoice and the mileage

Record the date, mileage, parts and labour on every invoice. A complete service history protects the resale value and helps the next garage diagnose a problem.