Average labour rates rise to £75 an hour

UK garage labour rates have increased 11.3 per cent since 2006, bringing the top hourly rate up to £200 an hour, according to a new survey.

Research released by Warranty Direct revealed the national average hourly rate has risen 11.3 per cent to £75.17.

Franchised dealers are currently charging an average of £94.70 an hour, a 7.7 per cent rise on 2006's charge of £87.91. Meanwhile the independent sector has seen a rise of 15 per cent from £48.43 to £55.63.

Greater London is the most expensive place for car servicing with an average hourly charge of £94.26 across both franchised and independent sites. Edinburgh was the cheapest at £68.70 average, while Merseyside was at £78.81 and Cornwall £78.01.

London was also the home of the most expensive dealer, which charged £198.86 an hour.

Dun McClure Fisher, managing director of Warranty Direct, said rates are likely to continue rising in the current economic climate.

"Car sales are falling, used car residuals are falling and people are putting off that annual service. As economic conditions worsen, prices could rise further to compensate the general downward trend."

MotorTrader

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