How Much Is Routine Car Maintenance Per Month In Singapore

Regular car maintenance in Singapore is crucial for keeping your vehicle running smoothly and preventing costly repairs. While basic maintenance might cost a few hundred dollars annually, prices generally increase as your car ages.

Several factors influence the price of car servicing, including the type of vehicle, your driving habits, and Singapore's road conditions. Compared to other countries, car maintenance costs in Singapore can be relatively higher due to factors like limited space and specialised labour.

It's essential to factor in these long-term expenses when budgeting for car ownership. In addition to routine maintenance, Singaporean car owners must also account for fixed annual costs like road tax, which varies based on engine capacity, and car insurance, which typically costs around S$1,600. 

This guide provides an overview of common car maintenance costs in Singapore and how to prepare for them, helping you keep your car in top condition without breaking the bank.

standard maintenance expenses typically include services like oil changes, filter replacements (air, oil, and fuel), tyre rotations, brake inspections, and fluid top-ups.

These services are often bundled into service packages, with minor servicing covering basic maintenance and major servicing addressing more comprehensive checks and component replacements.

The frequency of these services depends on factors like your car model, driving habits, and the manufacturer's recommendations. For instance, frequent short trips or driving in heavy traffic might necessitate more frequent servicing.

Based on biannual servicing prices from Honda’s website, the estimated cost range for basic maintenance services in Singapore can range from S$300 to S$400 per service, depending on the service package and your car model. As cars age, they may require additional maintenance and repairs, which can increase costs. Other car brands may have different costs per service depending on the model.

Therefore, it's essential to factor in the cost breakdown of maintenance and regular servicing when budgeting for car ownership in Singapore. Knowing how much a car maintenance check will be on an annual basis allows you to better plan for future expenses and keeps your vehicle in top shape.

Regular oil and filter changes are essential for maintaining your car's engine health and performance in Singapore. Fresh oil lubricates the engine components, reducing friction and wear, while a clean filter prevents contaminants from damaging the engine.

So how often should you send your car to a workshop for oil and filter change maintenance? Most car manufacturers recommend an oil change every 10,000 kilometres or every six months, whichever comes first.

However, it's always best to consult your car's owner's manual for specific recommendations on how often to service your car, as this can vary depending on your car model and driving conditions.

In Singapore, the average cost of an oil change can range from S$100 to S$200, depending on the type of oil used, your car model, and the service centre you choose.

Independent workshops might offer more competitive prices compared to authorised service centres. Some workshops may also offer packages that combine oil changes with other routine maintenance services, which could provide cost savings.

Read more: Average maintenance costs for cars in Singapore

Cabin air filters play a crucial role in maintaining clean air quality inside your vehicle. They trap dust, pollen, exhaust fumes, and other pollutants, preventing them from entering the cabin and compromising the air you breathe. Clean cabin air filters also help your air conditioning and heating systems function more efficiently.

In Singapore's climate and traffic conditions, it's generally recommended to replace your cabin air filter every 10,000 kilometres, or at least once a year. If you frequently drive in areas with heavy traffic or poor air quality, you might need to replace it more often.

Based on SingSaver's content, replacing a cabin air filter in Singapore typically costs between S$50 and S$150. The exact cost can vary depending on your car model and the type of filter used. Some service centres may offer package deals that combine air filter replacement with other routine maintenance services, which could provide cost savings.

Tyre rotation is a crucial aspect of car maintenance in Singapore, ensuring even wear and tear on all tyres and extending their lifespan. Rotating your tyres involves switching their positions on the vehicle, allowing them to wear down evenly and preventing uneven tread depth. This not only improves tyre longevity but also enhances safety and handling.

In Singapore's driving conditions, with frequent stop-and-go traffic and occasional rough roads, it's recommended to rotate your tyres every 10,000 kilometres, or approximately every six months. This frequency aligns with typical oil change intervals, making it convenient to combine both services. 

However, always refer to your car's owner's manual for the manufacturer's specific recommendations.

The cost of tyre rotation services in Singapore typically ranges from S$10 to S$50, depending on the tyre size, type of vehicle, and the service centre you choose. Some workshops may offer tyre rotation as part of a package deal with other routine maintenance services, which could provide cost savings.

A multipoint vehicle assessment provides a comprehensive checkup of your car's various systems and components, helping you identify potential issues before they become major problems.

These inspections can vary in scope and cost depending on the mechanic and the level of detail involved. The cost for a private car inspection ranges from S$50 - S$100 and may differ based on the workshop.

Typically, a multipoint inspection covers a wide range of areas, including the battery, filters, belts, hoses, fluids, tyres, brakes, powertrain, suspension, and steering components. This thorough evaluation can help you stay ahead of maintenance needs and prevent unexpected breakdowns.

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All car parts have a limited lifespan and eventually wear down due to regular use and exposure to the elements. In Singapore, factors like humid weather, urban traffic conditions, and frequent stop-and-go driving can accelerate wear and tear on certain components, such as tyres, brakes, and suspension parts.

While some parts are designed to last longer than others, it's inevitable that you'll need to replace certain parts periodically to keep your car running smoothly and safely.

Tyre replacement is a significant aspect of car maintenance in Singapore. The cost of tyres can vary greatly depending on the brand, size, and type of tyre. Economy tyres might cost around S$100-$200 each, while premium brands may be much higher.

In Singapore's hot and humid climate, tyres can degrade faster due to factors like heat, humidity, and frequent driving on paved roads. This can lead to cracks, hardening, and reduced tread depth. Tyres also wear down over time based on mileage, driving habits, and road conditions.

To ensure your safety and comply with local regulations, it's crucial to regularly check your tyres for wear and tear. Look for cracks in the sidewalls, uneven wear patterns, and reduced tread depth. You can use a tread depth gauge or the penny test to check if your tyres meet the Land Transport Authority's (LTA) minimum tread depth requirement of 1.6 millimetres.

Read More: Best tyre and rim workshops in Singapore

Windshield wiper blades are essential for maintaining clear visibility during Singapore's frequent rain and thunderstorms. They remove rain, dirt, and debris from your windshield, ensuring safe driving conditions.

The cost of wiper blades in Singapore can vary depending on the brand, quality, and type. How often you need to replace your wiper blades depends on usage and environmental factors.

Generally, it's recommended to replace wiper blades every six to twelve months, or sooner if you notice signs of wear like streaking, squeaking, or skipping.

Brake pads are a critical component of your car's braking system, ensuring safe and efficient stopping. In Singapore, the cost of replacing brake pads can range from S$100 to S$300 or more, depending on factors like the type of brake pads used, your car model, and the labour costs at the workshop.

The lifespan of brake pads varies greatly depending on driving habits and conditions. In Singapore, with its mix of urban and highway driving, brake pads typically last between 50,000 - 55,000 kilometres.

It's crucial to be aware of the signs of brake pad wear and tear, such as squeaking or grinding noises when braking, reduced braking performance, and dashboard warning lights. If you notice any of these signs, it's essential to get your brakes inspected and replace the pads if needed to ensure your safety on the road.

Read more: Compare the best car insurance rates for 2025

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To find out exactly what maintenance your car needs, turn to your owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s website for the most up to date information.

Manufacturers may also make it easy for owners by providing standardised servicing packages. These packages ensure convenience and peace of mind by bundling essential maintenance tasks at predetermined intervals or mileage points.

For example, a Honda Jazz hybrid has the following service maintenance packages.

As with most cars, some maintenance tasks repeat frequently, such as oil changes. However, certain maintenance tasks aren't required until the car reaches specific milestones.

However the question of how much a car service should cost can vary widely depending on various factors. Owners should therefore plan for both routine maintenance and unexpected repairs.

Setting aside a buffer in your budget for unforeseen issues like a sudden breakdown or urgent part replacement can provide valuable peace of mind and prevent financial strain.

Staying on top of your car's maintenance needs in Singapore requires a proactive approach. While your car's owner's manual provides a recommended maintenance schedule, various factors can influence the actual frequency of service.

Pay close attention to how often you need certain maintenance tasks performed. If you find yourself replacing parts like brake pads or tyres more frequently than the recommended intervals, it could indicate that your driving habits are accelerating wear and tear.

For instance, frequent hard braking or driving on rough roads can shorten the lifespan of these components. Adjusting your driving style can help prolong their lifespan and reduce maintenance costs.

Similarly, environmental factors like Singapore's hot and humid climate, heavy rainfall, and occasional dusty conditions can also impact the lifespan of certain parts, such as air filters and wiper blades. In such cases, you might need to replace these components more frequently than the manufacturer's recommendations.

Staying on top of your car's maintenance schedule and budgeting for regular servicing costs are essential aspects of car ownership in Singapore. By understanding your car's maintenance needs and anticipating upcoming expenses, you can avoid unexpected financial burdens and ensure your vehicle remains in top condition.

Keeping track of your car's maintenance history, including past repairs and service dates, can help you identify patterns and anticipate future needs. This proactive approach allows you to research workshops, compare quotes, and schedule services in advance, preventing last-minute rushes and potentially higher costs.

Budgeting for routine maintenance, such as oil changes, filter replacements, and tyre rotations, as well as factoring in potential expenses for unexpected repairs, ensures you're financially prepared for the ongoing costs of car ownership. This can help you avoid surprises and make informed decisions about your car's maintenance.

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