Navigating car ownership costs can be challenging and has become more expensive for many.

A recent event involving a driver has highlighted rising maintenance costs and the need for better communication between service providers and customers.

This situation serves as a reminder for all car owners to stay informed and vigilant.


Holly Petricevich, a Perth resident, was left reeling from sticker shock when she was presented with a $1,200 bill for her car's standard 60,000-kilometre service—a cost significantly higher than the $500 she had anticipated.

'They said they'd call me if they needed to do anything different, which I was fine with. But then they said, "Oh, that'll be $1,199, please". They said they had to do a little bit to the car, but they never consulted me,' she said.

The service, performed at an MG dealership in Wangara, was supposed to be routine, but the final amount suggested otherwise.


Holly's experience is a cautionary tale for all drivers, highlighting the need for vigilance in car servicing.

She had expected a call from the dealership if any additional work was required, but instead, she was met with an unexpected and hefty fee upon collecting her vehicle.

The dealership's claim that they had quoted her the $1,199 price beforehand was disputed by Holly, who was adamant that no such quote was provided.


The service cost breakdown included parts, petrol, oil and lubricant supplies (POL), miscellaneous items, tax, and labour.

While Holly was willing to pay for a thorough service, the lack of prior consultation and the surprise bill left her questioning the dealership's trustworthiness and considering alternative service providers for the future.

A standard car service was charged $1,199, shocking a Perth driver who expected a $500 cost.

'I never got quoted, hence why I was so shocked...they also were meant to return my call four times and never once did. I think that speaks volumes,' she said.

This incident is not an isolated one. Car owners across Australia feel the pinch as vehicle maintenance costs climb.

Henry Man from Compare the Market confirmed that car service prices have increased, citing the rise in labour costs, parts, and the integration of advanced technologies in newer car models as contributing factors.

Moreover, this trend affects driver behaviour, with a quarter of Aussies admitting to servicing their cars less frequently due to financial pressures.


This can be a false economy, as neglecting regular maintenance can lead to more significant and costly issues later.

The story of Holly's service bill serves as a reminder to all car owners to ensure they receive a precise quote before any work is undertaken.

Transparency is key, and customers should always be informed of any additional work that may affect the cost of the service.

It's also wise to shop around and compare prices from different service providers to ensure you're getting a fair deal.

These tips are especially pertinent for our senior readers, who often rely on their vehicles for independence and mobility.


Regularly maintaining your car is essential to ensure safety and reliability, but it's equally important to do so without being taken for a ride financially.

Remember, knowledge is power, and staying ahead of potential car service pitfalls can save you money and the stress and frustration of dealing with shock bills.

Drive safe, and keep your wits—and wallets—about you!


Have you ever been surprised by a high car service bill? What did you do? Do you always ask for a full quote before your car gets serviced? Why or why not? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below.