May 26, 2025 - Taking your car to a service centre in India can feel like a gamble. You want your vehicle fixed, but sometimes the bill leaves you shocked, wondering if you’ve been charged fairly. Many car owners face this issue, often because they don’t know the tricks some service centres use to bump up costs. Knowing what to look for can save you hundreds or thousands of rupees. Websites like ACKO Drive can guide you with tips and offer quality car service through their network of multi-brand service centres.

Here are six clear signs that a service centre might be overcharging you.

1. They Push Repairs You Don’t Need

Have you ever been informed that your car requires a new part while it appears to be in tip-top condition? A few service centres in India will tell you that you need to replace things such as air filters, belts, or batteries when they aren't necessary. This can be a subtle move to overcharge your bill, especially in metro cities where car upkeep is already pricey. Always be wary of a proposed repair's necessity.

For example, if someone informs you that your brake pads must be replaced, request to check them yourself. Even better, refer to your car's manual to see what maintenance is recommended. If a workshop is too pushy, get a second opinion from another mechanic to ensure you are not being charged for work you don't need.

2. Labour Charges That Don’t Add Up

Labour costs can be a big part of your service bill, but some centres charge too much for simple jobs. For example, changing your car’s oil or rotating tyres shouldn’t cost as much as a major repair. Before you agree to any work, ask for a clear list of labour charges. Compare them with what other local workshops charge. If the rates seem off, question them.

3. Spare Parts Cost More Than They Should

Another way service centres inflate bills is by charging too much for spare parts. Things like wiper blades, spark plugs, or oil filters can be marked up double or triple their actual price. In India, where fake parts are also a problem, you might even pay a high price for low-quality replacements.

Ask for a bill that shows the cost of each part. Check those prices against what spare parts cost at local shops or online. If you can, buy the parts yourself and just pay for installation.

4. Bills That Don’t Explain Anything

A good service centre gives you a bill that lists every charge clearly - parts, labour, taxes, everything. But some hand you a vague receipt with terms like “service charge” or “other fees” that don’t explain what you’re paying for. This makes it easy for them to charge extra costs without your notice.

Never pay until you get a proper, detailed bill. If they can’t provide one, that’s a red flag. In India, you have the right to know what you’re being charged for.

5. Selling Fancy Add-Ons You Don’t Need

Various service centre establishments offer extra features such as "engine cleaning" and "paint protection" services, which seem valuable but are often unnecessary for most Indian car owners. According to the prices they charge when maintaining the hatchback or sedan, the average Indian car driver would find little value in the extra services that service centres offer.

Request clarification about additional services before consent, because it ensures that your car requires such services.

6. Service Centre Does Not Follow Manufacturer Guidelines

Some service centres urge customers to replace oil at 3,000 km before the standard 10,000 km synthetic oil interval or trigger premature timing belt changes, even though these practices differ from manufacturer protocols. The establishment obtains multiple benefits from these unjustified recommendations, which result in frequent customer visits and additional payment needs. 

Review your car owner’s manual for maintenance periods. Verify every maintenance recommendation to ensure proper service. Following the manufacturer's guidelines is crucial to maintain your warranty during your car's ownership period.

Conclusion

Overcharging customers in car service centres remains a frustrating problem, yet awareness can prevent such occurrences. Watching for signs that include unneeded car repairs, high labour fees, expensive parts, unclear invoices and pushy upselling will help you maintain affordable costs. 

Asking questions, comparing prices and investigating provides access to reliable automotive services. Proper maintenance and quality selection ensure your car remains in excellent condition without breaking your budget, ensuring each service operation represents fair value.

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