How To Save Money On Service And Repair Costs

Thursday, 9. October 2008

According to figures released by Warranty Direct, labour rates for mechanics have risen by 11.3% since the summer of 2006 to an average £75.17 per hour. Rates have increased sharpest by the independent garages to narrow the gap between them and the more expensive franchised dealer networks. The average franchised dealer is charging £95 an hour today compared with £88 in 2006, up 7.7%. In comparison the rate for a mechanic in an independent garage has leapt by 14.9% over the same period from £48 to £55 an hour. Don’t forget that you can have a new car serviced at any registered service centre and still retain the warranty under the revised Block Exemption rules. I would still recommend that the garage uses manufacturers parts. By Graham Hill