It’s a question every car owner faces at some point: how much should I budget for car maintenance each year? Whether you drive daily or only occasionally, staying on top of routine upkeep is crucial for keeping your vehicle reliable and avoiding unexpected repair bills.

Average Annual Maintenance Costs in the UK

On average, UK drivers spend between £300 and £500 per year on standard maintenance. This includes routine services like oil changes, tyre rotation or replacement, brake inspections, fluid top-ups, and annual MOT tests. However, this number can vary widely depending on your vehicle’s age, model, mileage, and how it’s driven.

For example, newer cars under warranty may only need minor servicing, while older vehicles might require new parts, more frequent oil changes, or occasional repairs. Add in the cost of replacing things like wiper blades, batteries, or brake pads, and it’s easy to see how costs can build up.

Key Factors That Influence Your Budget

Driving habits play a big role in how much you’ll spend. Frequent short trips, aggressive braking, and heavy city driving can increase wear and tear. Your car’s make and model also matter—luxury or imported cars often come with higher labour and parts costs.

Preventative maintenance can save you money in the long run. Sticking to the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals and addressing small issues is often the most cost-effective approach.

How Rooster Can Help You Save

Wondering again, how much should I budget for car maintenance each year? The good news is that with the Rooster app, you can cut those costs significantly. Rooster helps you compare local service providers and book MOTs and repairs at up to 50% off.

Plus, the app tracks your service history, sends reminders, and offers smart maintenance tools—so nothing gets missed, and you stay in control of your car’s running costs.

Download the Rooster app today to access discounted maintenance, MOT tracking, and more—all in one place.