You can ask your chosen garage for an exact timescale, but a car service can take anywhere from 60 minutes to 4 hours – depending on the type you choose to book.
During a car service, the garage will inspect the condition of several components of your vehicle, such as the body, wheels, brakes, and gearbox.
Parts of your vehicle may need to be dismantled, for instance so that new filters can be fitted or fluid drained and replaced.
Read on and learn how long a car service will take, how long you will have to leave your car at the garage, and what to do if the garage says your vehicle needs further repair work.
Page Contents
How Long Does a Full Car Service Take?
A full service is the most popular type of service and will take around 3 hours to complete - provided that your mechanic does not find something seriously wrong with your vehicle during the service.
How Long Is an Interim Service?
With fewer checks than a full service, an interim service can take roughly 1 to 2 hours to complete.
How Long Will a Major Service Take?
A major service can take 4 hours or longer and is the most comprehensive service of the three.
How Long Will My Car Be at the Garage?
The length of time that your car spends at the garage will vary depending on the garage you choose and the type of car service you book.
Generally speaking, you should be able to collect your car on the same day you dropped it off, but this will depend on how busy the garage is.
Please note that there are a few factors which can influence how long a service will take, including:
- How old the car is
- The mileage of the vehicle
- If problems are identified during the service
- If problem were identified during a previous MOT test
What If My Vehicle Needs Additional Repairs?
If the garage decides that your vehicle needs extra repair work, then you may need to leave your car at the garage for longer.
The garage will explain the additional repairs to you, and may ask you to return for your vehicle at a later date.
