What you pay for servicing or repairing your car depends on more than just the job. Choosing between a main dealer and an independent garage is one of the key decisions UK motorists face. Costs, quality, warranty and value are all affected. Here is a detailed comparison to help you make an informed choice.
What Makes Up the Cost
When you take your car in, the overall cost includes:
- Labour: the hourly rate charged for the technician’s time
- Parts: whether they are genuine (OEM) or aftermarket equivalents
- Overhead: premises, rent, showroom, admin, staff, equipment. Dealers tend to have higher overheads
- Diagnostics and software: for many modern cars, access to brand‑specific diagnostic tools, software updates, recalls and so on
- Extras and upsells: such as fluids, filters, checks, wash and vac, and other services
Typical Cost Differences
Independent garages are generally cheaper. For example, research indicates that independent garages in the UK average around £76 per hour for labour, while franchised dealers in some areas charge more than £140 per hour.
Savings of about 30 to 35 percent are common on servicing costs when comparing independents with main dealers, particularly for routine work.
For a full main dealer service on a typical hatchback, quotes might be around £250 to £300, while independents may charge a bit less, say £200 to £275, depending on location and how much work is required.
Hidden or Additional Costs to Be Aware Of
- Parts quality and cost: Dealers will generally use OEM parts at full cost. Independents may offer a choice of OEM or good quality alternatives
- Warranty issues: Using an independent does not automatically void the manufacturer warranty. What matters is that the service is done to the manufacturer’s schedule and that approved parts and fluids are used, with proper records
- Time and convenience: Dealers may be more rigid with appointment slots. Independents might offer more flexibility and sometimes faster service once booked
- Diagnostic and software updates: Dealers arguably have an advantage for dealing with brand‑specific software, recalls or electronic control units. However, many independent specialists now have access to diagnostic tools and update capability
Quality, Equipment and Expertise
Dealers generally employ brand‑trained technicians and have the latest diagnostic systems directly linked to manufacturers. That ensures they can handle manufacturer updates, recall work and brand‑specific software requirements. Independents differ. Some are generalists, while others specialise in certain makes or models. Specialist independent garages often employ staff with equivalent training, sometimes ex‑dealer technicians, and invest in high quality equipment.
Warranty, Resale and Long‑Term Value
The UK legal framework, including the block exemption regulations, allows servicing at an independent garage without invalidating a manufacturer’s warranty, provided the work meets the manufacturer’s standards and genuine or approved parts and fluids are used, and records are kept.
Regarding resale value, a full service history is important. Whether stamps come from main dealers or independents can make a difference in perception, but often the documentation matters more than the name of the garage. Research suggests the additional cost you pay at a dealer is rarely fully recovered in a higher resale price.
When a Dealer Might Be Worth the Extra Cost
- Your vehicle is still under a manufacturer warranty and you want maximum certainty
- The brand requires specific software updates or recall work that an independent might not do
- You value the prestige, showroom service or additional perks such as courtesy cars or guaranteed parts
- You are less comfortable with risk and prefer dealing with a large organisation
When an Independent Garage Is More Economical
- Your car is out of warranty or older
- You only require routine maintenance or minor repairs
- You can find an independent with a strong reputation, good reviews and possibly specialising in your car’s brand
- You want flexibility in terms of parts and appointment times
- Saving money is more important to you than having everything done at a dealership
Example Comparisons
Here are a few hypothetical or real‑world comparisons to illustrate how costs could differ:
| Job | Main Dealer Cost (typical) | Independent Cost (typical) | Approximate Saving |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full service on a mid‑age hatchback | ~ £280 | ~ £230 to £270 | ~ £20 to £50 less for independent (depends on extras) |
| Labour rate per hour | ~ £100+ | ~ £70 to £80 | ~ 25 to 40 percent cheaper with independent |
| Use of OEM parts | included | optional or pricier | can save by choosing alternative parts |
Tips to Get Best Value
- Always ask for a detailed quote showing parts, labour and any other charges
- Ask whether genuine parts are required or whether approved alternatives are acceptable
- Check whether an independent garage has the necessary credentials, good reviews and relevant experience
- Keep all service records, invoices and follow manufacturer‑recommended service schedules
- Compare quotes from both dealers and independents. Sometimes the difference may be small. Other times it may be significant
- If your car is still under warranty, verify with the manufacturer that servicing at the independent you select will meet the conditions
Conclusion
Choosing between a main dealer and an independent garage is about balancing cost, quality, peace of mind and long‑term value. Independent garages often offer substantial savings, especially for out‑of‑warranty vehicles and routine maintenance. Dealers come into their own when your car is newer, under warranty or when you want full assurance over software, recalls and parts.
If you do the necessary checks, use good parts, follow manufacturer guidelines and keep correct documentation, choosing an independent is often the most cost‑effective route without sacrificing safety or reliability. Ultimately the best choice depends on your vehicle, your budget and what you value most.