How much is a full car service in Ireland?
What's included, what's not, why dealer pricing is double, and how to read a quote.
Honest answer: a full service in Ireland runs €149 to €350 at an independent garage, €280 to €600 at a main dealer. Here’s why, and what should be on the bill.
What a full service includes
- Engine oil and filter (manufacturer-spec)
- Air filter
- Cabin/pollen filter
- Spark plugs (petrol — every 60,000 km typical)
- Brake fluid check (renewal every 2 years)
- Coolant level and condition
- Power steering fluid
- Gearbox oil check (DSG / CVT — at interval)
- Brake pad and disc inspection
- Tyre tread, pressure, condition
- Lights, wipers, washer jets
- Battery test
- Suspension and exhaust visual check
- Service light reset
A interim service is cheaper (€89–€129) and covers oil + oil filter only, plus a quick visual inspection. Use the interim every 12 months between full services.
Why dealer pricing is double
Dealers carry showroom overhead, franchise fees, dealer-network commissions, and salaried sales staff. None of that goes into the work on your car. Independent labour rate is typically half — same OEM-spec parts, same schedule.
What to ask before you pay
- “Is the price you quoted me VAT-inclusive?” (it should be — 23% VAT)
- “Will you give me a printed itemised invoice?” (yes — it’s a Revenue requirement)
- “Will my warranty be affected?” (no — Block Exemption Regulation protects you, as long as schedule and parts are right)
- “What oil grade are you using?” (must match the manufacturer schedule for your engine)
What V.T. Motors charges
- Interim Service: €89–€129
- Full Service: €149–€219
- Premium / German full service (BMW 3.0d, Audi RS, Mercedes AMG etc.): up to €280
- All-in, VAT-inclusive
Book a service — phone 01 847 5146.