What should that repair cost?

The calculator returns the typical UK 2026 range an independent garage would charge — drawn from DVSA fee schedules, ONS regional wage data, WhatCar/RAC cost surveys, and published industry repair times. Real quotes from a specific garage will vary by car age, parts brand, condition, and local competition. Always confirm with a written quote before authorising work.

Main dealers typically charge 30–50% more than independent garages for the same work. Three reasons: higher labour rates (often £140–£200/hr vs £50–£80/hr at indies), OE-only parts pricing, and dealer overheads. Independents using OE-equivalent parts can legally service a car under warranty thanks to the EU Block Exemption Regulation (retained in UK law post-Brexit).

EV repairs need a technician with a Level 3+ electrically qualified certificate, which fewer independent garages have. Parts cost more too — brake discs are larger, wheel bearings carry heavier loads, and 12V auxiliary work involves high-voltage safety procedures. EV brakes typically last 2–3x longer than petrol thanks to regen braking, so total cost of ownership often evens out.

An interim service (every 6 months / 6,000 miles) covers oil, oil filter, and a multi-point inspection — typically £80–£140 at an indie. A full service (every 12 months / 12,000 miles) adds air filter, cabin filter, brake fluid check, more detailed inspections, and sometimes spark plugs — typically £150–£280. A major service every 2–3 years adds gearbox oil, coolant flush and timing belt inspection (£280–£400+).

Yes, especially with independent garages. The best leverage is multiple written quotes from comparable garages — most will match or beat a lower quote within 10%. Ask whether parts are OE-equivalent or aftermarket; ask for a labour-time breakdown; and ask whether the diagnostic fee is refunded against the repair. Don't haggle on safety-critical parts like brakes — go for the lower labour rate, not cheap pads.

The DVSA caps the Class 4 MOT fee at £54.85 (cars and light vans up to 3,000 kg). Most independent garages charge £30–£50; supermarket-attached fast-fits sometimes £20–£30. Main dealers usually charge the full cap. Free re-tests within 10 working days are mandatory if you fix the failure at the same garage.

Independent garage labour rates broadly track ONS wage data for the automotive trades. London and the South East are highest (£75–£120/hr indep) because of property and labour costs. The Midlands and North range £45–£80/hr. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland sit lower. Main dealers add a flat premium of 30–50% regardless of region.