The 5 Best Tips To Save Money on Garage Services: A Guide to Affordable Maintenance.

Have you been wondering about ways to reduce your garage costs? Owning a car in the UK is often expensive. Maintenance costs for MOT testing and frequent repairs or replacements are some factors that contribute to the high expenses. On average, a car owner spends around £1300 to £1600 annually on overall car maintenance and services. The most surprising fact is that the initial purchase cost is not even accounted for in these expenses! Such high prices often make regular maintenance challenging for car owners on a budget. However, there are a few simple ways to reduce your car servicing costs while making sure it remains in excellent condition. Find out more about these tips in this guide to affordable garage services. 

1. Right Service, Right Time! 

Understanding the right time for your car maintenance and services is highly beneficial for every owner. Usually, intervals for your car service will depend on the type of car you own and the service it needs. Typically, there are fixed-schedule services and some variable services. 

 
In the case of fixed-schedule services, they depend on a set limit. This limit could either be a set mileage or a time limit, depending on whichever comes first. Some common intervals that determine the right time for servicing are 12 months or 12,000 miles, and 6 months or 6,000 miles. However, your driving patterns and the manufacturer’s recommendations play a crucial role too.  

Variable services, on the other hand, depend on the sensors fitted on your car. The onboard computer uses data collected from these sensors to alert you of any potential issues with the components. Depending on your driving patterns, these services might be frequent or even cross the 12,000-mile limit. 


Hence, knowing the right time for your service is significant in the overall maintenance of your car. With regular maintenance, you save the repair costs that become excessive in the long run. Frequent and minor repairs and services help you save your time and money long-term. 

2. Save on your MOT. 

The Ministry of Transport test is now just called the MOT test. The ministry is currently known as the Department of Transport. This annual inspection is a comprehensive examination of your car’s safety and emission standards. The department has set a fixed price of the test for every vehicle. For a car with up to 8 passenger seats, you will have to pay a fixed amount of £54.85 . You might find a cheaper test with sufficient research, but finding a trusted garage is significant. Without accurate testing, you could get a fine of £1,000. Hence, timely MOT is as important as getting one from a reputed garage Bristol. 

3. Cheap Replacement Parts. 

Fitting cheap replacement parts to save servicing costs is a common method used by budget car owners. However, the level of safety it provides often remains questionable. These non-genuine parts are cheaper compared to the original ones, yet there are concerns over their standards. If you have been thinking of using cheap replacement parts, here are some pros and cons for you to weigh in: 

 Pros of cheap replacement parts. 

Non-genuine parts are almost always cheaper than the original ones. This means you end up saving some money in case of short-term expenses. 
These cheaper parts are often of the same quality as the original car manufacturer’s ones. 
Non-original parts are much more easily available. There are wide varieties offered too from various spare parts manufacturers. 
 

Cons of cheap replacement parts. 

The quality standards of these non-original parts may differ from the genuine ones. This might lead to inaccurate fitting and other safety issues in your car. 
Fitting these cheaper non-original parts might lead to an invalid vehicle warranty, increasing your expenses in the long run. 
These non-original parts do not always come with warranty services. A 12-month warranty, at least, is significant to reduce your maintenance costs. 
 

4. Less Fuel, More Savings. 

The more your vehicle experiences damage and wear, the greater your maintenance costs. Plus, worn-out components are a major contributor to increased fuel expenses. However, with a few changes in your driving habits, you can save up on your fuel costs: 


A 30-second warm-up for your engine offers various benefits. One of them is it reduces engine wear and damage, decreasing your long-term maintenance costs. 
Avoid short journeys as much as possible. Frequent starts and stops increase fuel costs as well as damage. 
Avoid rough braking and acceleration to prevent wear and tear. 
Regularly check all fluid levels in your car. Regular oil changes are vital too. 
Maintain proper functioning of all components. Any minor issue could lead to greater damage in the long run, and could also increase fuel consumption. 
 

5. Make Tyres Last Longer. 

Tyres are an added expense to your overall maintenance costs. Increasing their longevity becomes highly essential to reduce your expenses. Plus, a well-maintained tyre will also improve fuel efficiency, saving money in the long run. Check that you are investing in genuine and quality tyres for longevity. Besides this, you also need to regularly check the tyre pressure and tread levels. Any discrepancy in these can amount to greater expenses. Proper wheel alignment and balancing is important too. Consult your vehicle manual and professional technicians for proper maintenance of tyres Bristol. 


Garage services are crucial for your car’s overall performance, safety, and comfort. These are important to reduce the risks of sudden breakdowns too. But, these added expenses are often overwhelming for budget drivers. By following these simple tips, you could reduce your servicing costs and enjoy an affordable yet confident driving experience.