Summary
- Independent labour is $90–160/hr (US) or £50–110/hr (UK).
- Dealers charge roughly 50–100% more per hour.
- Independents rarely affect warranty if the schedule is followed.
- Always set a written approval cap for additional work.
- Expect 12 months or 12,000 miles warranty on parts and labour.
Quick answer
Independent garages charge about $90–160 per hour in the US and £50–110 per hour in the UK. Franchised dealers charge roughly 50–100% more. Using an independent rarely affects a manufacturer warranty if servicing follows the schedule.
Typical 2026 prices
| Job | US | UK |
|---|---|---|
| Labour rate, independent | $90–160/hr | £50–110/hr |
| Labour rate, dealer | $150–260/hr | £100–200/hr |
| Interim / minor service | $120–250 | £90–180 |
| Full service | $250–500 | £180–380 |
| Annual safety inspection | $30–100 | £45–55 (MOT) |
| Front brake pads and discs | $350–700 | £250–500 |
| Clutch replacement | $900–2,000 | £600–1,400 |
| Timing belt (cambelt) with water pump | $700–1,500 | £450–1,000 |
| Diagnostic check | $80–200 | £50–120 |
| Air conditioning regas | $150–350 | £80–200 |
Dealer or independent?
| Franchised dealer | Independent | Mobile mechanic | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Labour rate | Highest | Mid | Lowest |
| Brand-specific tools | Always | Specialists only | Limited |
| Parts | Genuine only | Genuine or quality aftermarket | Aftermarket |
| Best for | Warranty and recall work | Most repairs and servicing | Simple jobs at home |
Using an independent garage generally preserves a manufacturer warranty as long as the schedule is followed and correct-specification parts are used. Keep every invoice and stamp.
Warning signs
How to protect yourself
Save money without cutting corners
Summary
Labour rates of £50–110 or $90–160 at an independent, and roughly double at a dealer, explain most of the price difference between quotes. Insist on a written itemised estimate, an approval cap and a warranty on parts and labour.
Frequently asked questions
car repair
garage
mechanic
servicing