How much does a Ford car service cost?

Do you have a Ford car? Servicing costs got you wondering if you’re getting the best deal? You’re in the right place. 

We’ve put together this Ford car service price guide to help you compare the costs, know the common issues, and understand the factors that go into pricing your Ford car service. That way, you can make an informed decision next time you’re due to book in with a service provider.

In Australia, Ford cars are sold new at over 200 independent dealerships and you’ll find secondhand Fords at a used car dealership in just about every suburb. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Ford was the third most popular car brand in Australia in 2017, with 1,234,507 registered Fords. And in the same year, the Ford Ranger was the second most popular new vehicle sold and newly registered at 42,728 (source: VFACTS New Vehicle Sales), so you’re not crazy if you feel like you’re seeing them everywhere.

Ford has a reputation for making quality cars that last, so it’s no surprise there are still plenty of Fords on the road two decades after purchase. And if you keep your eyes peeled, you’ll even see a few old (much loved) classics like early 70s Ford Falcons which are now coming up to a very respectable 50 years old.

So there’s a huge range in car models, engine types, and needs for car servicing, and therefore a lot of variation in what a Ford car service can cost. But don’t worry - we’ve done our best to break it down for you in this guide to reduce the overwhelm and make costs a lot more transparent for Ford car owners around Australia.

How often do I need to service my Ford?

Regularly servicing your car is important if you want it to run efficiently, avoid breakdowns, and stay roadworthy (aka safe to drive). Most of the time, it’s a good idea to get your car booked in twice a year, although some cars may be able to get away with a yearly service.

Generally, your bookings will alternate between a major and minor service, which is why your Ford car service costs a little more every second visit.

When you decide how often book your car, consider the long-term Ford maintenance costs - if you book your car in more frequently, there’s a good chance your mechanic will catch any problems before they become too expensive.

During a standard car service, what normally happens?

A standard or minor car service will usually include the following:

• Oil and filter change

• Visual inspection

• Top up fluids, including washer fluid, brake fluid, antifreeze, and steering fluid

• Check of key components for potential issues or wear and tear

• Brake check

• Noting down any issues

• Filling out logbook

A major service will generally include all of the above, plus:

• Changing spark plugs

• Changing fuel filters

• Wheel alignment check

• Belt check

• Tyre pressure and tread check

• Lights check

• Steering check

• Windscreen wipers check

• Exhaust check

• Battery check

Of course, these inclusions will vary between mechanics, so don’t assume that everything listed here is going to be part of your service. It’s always best to check with your service provider about what’s included in your Ford car service and confirm costs before you book in.

What’s included in Ford’s service schedule?

Ford generally recommends you follow either a normal schedule for everyday driving conditions, or a special operating condition schedule for vehicles that regularly carry heavy loads, drive offroad or in dusty conditions, or often drive at low-speeds over long distances. Ford has a specific schedule for each model, with extra steps depending on included features (like diesel fuel) but in general here’s what a normal service schedule might look like:

Every month:

• Check inside and outside lights

• Check tires and rotate

• Check engine oil levels

• Check windscreen wiper fluid

Every 6 months or about 8,000km:

• Oil change

• Check seatbelts for function

• Check spare tyre

• Check power steering fluid

• Check windscreen wipers and clean blades

• Check parking brake

• Check and lubricate external locks, latches, and hinges

• Check and lubricate rubber seals on doors

• Check safety warning lights

• Check coolant

• Check battery and clean connections if needed

• Check clutch fluid

Ford have specific schedules with recommended services at set intervals, right through to around 240,000km. So we won’t include everything here, but if in doubt, pull out the trusty car manual and see what’s recommended for your current mileage.

What are some common issues that come up when servicing Fords?

Every car brand has a reputation for certain qualities, and Ford is no different. Here are some commonly reported problems:

• Transmission malfunctions

• Gearbox issues

• Clutch issues

• Oil leaks

• Hazardous exhaust fumes

• Corrosion to the car body

• Unusual engine noises and shuddering

Of course, these won’t apply to all models, and it’s worth mentioning that any major issues generally result in a recall so Ford can fix the part at fault. And while these might not happen to you, it’s still good to aware of them in case you suspect something’s wrong, so you can book your Ford in for a service earlier than your usual schedule.

Fortunately, a lot of these problems can be avoided or are a lot less expensive to deal with if you keep up with your regular car servicing. It’s usually only when your servicing gets neglected that you end up getting hit with a lot of problems and costs all at once.

What are some common Ford car repair costs?

The cost of repairing your Ford will depend on what you need done, labour costs, parts availability, whether you use new or reconditioned parts, and more. Fortunately, Fords are generally quite easy to find replacement parts for in Australia, which can help keep car repair costs down. Here are some common repairs and an approximate price guide:

• Catalytic converter replacement: $400 - $2000+

• Spark plug replacement: $250 - $450

• New battery: $99 - $250

• Air con repair: $300 - $500

• New tyres (all 4): $350 - $1200

• Carbon air filter: $30 - $80

• New radiator: $300 - $500

• New timing belt: $300 - $700

Guide to Ford car service costs by model

It’s tricky to give an exact Ford service cost, because it varies a lot depending on your make and model. So we’ve put together a list of the most common Fords in Australia, with approximate car service price for each.

What are the main factors affecting the cost of my Ford car service?

As you can see from our price guide above, there’s a huge variation in cost between different models, but also between different types of services. Plus, the overall cost of a Ford service also needs also include your mechanic’s labour, which will depend on:

• Whether it’s a basic service or a major service

• Whether there’s other major work required as part if your car’s maintenance schedule

• How complex the job is likely to be for your car 

• The year your car was made in

• Whether it’s a diesel or petrol model

• Whether it’s 4WD or not

• Whether you or your mechanic will source the parts

• How difficult the parts are to source

• Any extras

• Your location/suburb

• Whether you book an independent mechanic, a mobile mechanic, or you bring your car into a workshop

• How urgently you need the job done

• Whether you need them to work on a weekend or weekday

How can I save on my Ford car service costs?

You might be looking at the Ford service price guides above and wondering how you can make sure you pay on the lower end of the scale. While there’s always going to be some pricier services and expensive parts that need replacing, you can definitely get a lower cost Ford service by choosing the right service provider. 

We’ve found you can save as much as 50% on some car services just by choosing an independent mechanic like you can find here on the Airtasker platform, rather than heading to your Ford dealership or franchised mechanic. Independents can operate with much lower overheads, which is one reason why they’re a lot more affordable. Plus, an independent mechanic will usually offer a mobile service, which means you don’t have to try and find time to drop your car in (and find alternative transport).

How to book an Airtasker mechanic for your Ford service

Ready to book a mechanic for your Ford and compare some quotes? It’s easy! Just write out your task, post your listing, review your offers, choose someone, and they’ll arrange to come and do your catalytic converter replacement at a time that suits you. If you’re curious, check out how it works.

Here’s what you might include in your listing:

• Timing and budget

• Location

• Car make and model

• Whether it’s a minor or major service

• Anything in your service schedule that needs doing

• Any issues noticed?

• Equipment and parts provided?

• Any additional services required?

The more info you include, the easier it’ll be for your mechanic to price up the job and send through a quote. Plus, they’ll rely on accurate info in your listing so they can come prepared when they turn up to work on your car.

Example car service and repair listings from Airtasker

Need some inspiration to help you create your listing? Here are some recent examples of auto and mechanic tasks our members have posted (and successfully completed).