News: London garage charges record £215 for one hour’s labour

THE CUSTOMERS of one London garage could be forgiven for requiring something stiffer than the free vending coffee they’re likely to receive.

According to new research, the workshop at the franchised dealership boasts an hourly labour rate for servicing and repairs of £215, including Vat. The figure is the highest hourly labour rate ever recorded in the annual Warranty Direct survey of garage labour rates.

The company would not reveal the identity of the London-based dealership but said that it represented a mainstream brand and was not a luxury or supercar dealer.

The charge compares with an average hourly labour rate for independent and franchised garages in London of £91.99, and across the UK of £74.33. The figures confirm London to be the most expensive place in the UK to have a car fixed.

David Gerrans, managing director of WD, said: “While labour rates remain fairly steady, London continues to set new benchmarks for the cost of getting car repairs, with a jaw-dropping rate from one garage that would have many motorists rubbing their eyes in disbelief.”