How long does a car service take?
If you are booking your car in for a full or interim service, you’ll probably want to know how long it will take.
An essential part of routine car maintenance, a service ensures vital fluids, filters and other parts are replaced when they are needed to ensure your vehicle stays healthy.
Typically, a mobile mechanic or garage will need 45 to 75 minutes for an interim service and up to 90 minutes for a full service.
Read on to find out how long a car service will take.
How long does a full service take?
A full service should be completed within a single day. Typically, a mobile mechanic or garage will complete a full service in 90 minutes.
If the mobile mechanic or garage is busy, the full service may take longer to complete. You may also have to wait if the car requires additional repairs or replacement parts.
A full service should be carried out every 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. The mechanic should check the steering, brakes, suspension, wheels and tyres.
A full diagnostic check should also be conducted, which includes a full engine management system check, looking for electrical issues and any problems identified up by the electric control units on the engine, the power steering, transmission and sensors.
Under the bonnet, the power steering fluid should be examined and topped up if required. The battery and charging system should also be checked. The engine oil, oil filter and air filter should all be replaced.
A full service should always be completed with a test drive, with the mechanic checking if anything feels or sounds unusual and to make sure there aren’t any new problems.
How long does an interim car service take?
An interim car service usually takes 45 to 75 minutes to complete. It may take longer if your vehicle requires repairs or the mechanic is busy.
The engine oil and filter should be changed as part of the interim service. The coolant and battery should also be checked.
As with a full service, the mechanic should inspect the steering, suspension and brakes. The wheels and condition of the tyres should also be checked, along with the vehicle’s lights.
Key safety features of the vehicle – seatbelts, seatbelt mounts, windscreen wipers and horn – should be tested and the washer fluid topped up.
Finally, the mechanic must test the vehicle on the public road to detect if anything sounds or feels out of place and ensure there are no new or developing problems.
Car troubles?
Book a diagnostic test with us today.
RAC Mobile Mechanics will check your car for faults, talk you through any repairs you might need, and give you a report for your records.
How long does a full service and MOT take?
The MOT takes between 45 and 60 minutes while a full service takes up to 90 minutes.
Many drivers choose to combine a full service with an MOT to ensure their vehicle is in top condition and meets all legal safety and emission requirements.
Combining a full service and MOT could save time, as you won’t need to take your car to multiple garages.
What will happen if my car requires extra work after a service?
Occasionally a problem may be found with a vehicle during its full or interim service. If this happens, the mechanic may pause the service to contact you and inform of the repairs that are required.
If the service cannot be completed due to a serious problem with the vehicle, you may be asked to come back later so the garage can source the parts and repair the car. If a minor issue is found with your car, you may be asked to return with the vehicle later.
.jpg%3Fwidth%3D350%26quality%3D100%26crop%3D800%253A600%26gravity%3Dcenter&w=1920&q=75)
Get a service or repair at home
RAC Mobile Mechanics can come to you, saving you the hassle of going to a garage.
You might also like
7 signs that your car needs a service
It’s up to motorists to recognise the signs your car needs a service as soon as possible to prevent small faults developing into much bigger problems.
Car service: how much does it cost and what's included?
If you are looking to do book a service for your vehicle, you probably thought ‘how much is this going to cost?’. Read here for more information on servicing.
EV maintenance, service, and repairs guide
Electric vehicles (EVs) are generally cheaper to maintain than their petrol or diesel equivalents. However, an EV still needs regular servicing.
How often should I service my car?
How often should you service your car? Find out with our guide to all car servicing. From an interim service to a full service, our guide explains all.
How to find your car's service history
Your car's service history is a critical piece of data. We tell you how to check your car's service history and why it is important.
How to service your car: car servicing checklist
If the thought of paying out for servicing once or twice a year fills your bank balance with dread, you could consider servicing your car yourself.
New car warranty – do I have to get my car serviced at the dealership?
Will you invalidate your new car warranty if you get it serviced outside of the dealership network in the UK? Find out with our in-depth guide with RAC Drive.
What is a car service? Car service checklist
Keep you car safe and eficient! Getting a service may sound like a hassle, but it doesn’t have to be. Read the RAC's car servicing guide.
What is the difference between an MOT and Service?
What separates a MOT and a service, and why they are both vital for car owners across the UK? Learn more about the price, work carried out, and timelines.
Video
12 essential car maintenance checks you should definitely be doing
There are a number of car checks you can perform both around the car and under the bonnet to help keep it in good running order and prevent a breakdown.
Popular in Advice & Guides
1
Are headlights too bright? Everything you need to know about headlight glare
2
Lost driving licence – how to get a replacement
3
Car dashboard symbols and meanings – warning lights guide
4
What to do if your car breaks down
5
A complete guide to motorbike tax
6
How to check MOT history
7
MOT checklist and comprehensive guide
8
Cheapest cars to insure for new drivers 2025 - Top 10
9
Euro 7 emissions standard: what is it and when does it come into effect?
10