When it comes to vehicle ownership in SA, reliability is everything. Whether you’re navigating Joburg traffic or cruising coastal roads in the Western Cape, your car needs regular attention — and that attention comes at a cost.
To help manage those expenses, dealerships and service providers offer two popular options: the Service Plan and the Maintenance Plan. They sound similar, but the differences between them can have a significant impact on your long-term costs.
This guide dives deep into what each plan covers, how much they typically cost in 2025, and how to decide which one fits your lifestyle and budget best.
What Does a Service Plan Cover?
A Service Plan is essentially a prepaid agreement that covers the cost of your vehicle’s scheduled servicing. These services are outlined in your car’s owner manual and occur at set intervals — usually every 15,000 km or 12 months.
Included in a Service Plan:
- Engine oil and oil filter replacements
- Air, pollen, and fuel filter replacements
- Spark plug changes
- Basic checks and diagnostics
- Labour costs for standard servicing
- Fluids top-ups (brake, transmission, coolant)
This type of plan does not include wear-and-tear components, nor does it cover failures or replacements outside of routine service.
What Makes a Maintenance Plan More Comprehensive?
A Maintenance Plan includes all the benefits of a Service Plan but goes further by covering parts and labour related to wear-and-tear, mechanical failures, and even limited electrical repairs in some cases.
What’s Included in a Maintenance Plan:
- All Service Plan items
- Brake discs and pads
- Clutch kits and hydraulic components
- Suspension parts (bushes, shocks, ball joints)
- Wipers, light bulbs, and fuses
- Limited coverage on the gearbox, cooling system, or engine repairs (depending on the provider)
If you want to avoid surprises like a worn clutch or dead battery setting you back a few grand, a Maintenance Plan is the safer bet.
Cost Comparison in 2025: Service vs. Maintenance Plan
Here’s a breakdown of what South African drivers can expect to pay in 2025:
| Plan Type | Monthly Range (2025) | Usual Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Service Plan | R300 – R750 | 3–5 years or 60,000 km | Drivers with new cars, infrequent travel |
| Maintenance Plan | R800 – R1,500+ | 2–5 years or 100,000 km+ | High-mileage users, older vehicle owners |
Note: Luxury and high-performance vehicles may cost more to cover under either plan.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Service Plan | Maintenance Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Covers scheduled servicing | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Includes wear-and-tear items | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Repairs or diagnostics | ❌ No | ✅ Sometimes (varies) |
| Upfront cost | 💸 Lower | 💸 Higher |
| Long-term savings | ⚖️ Limited | ✅ Greater potential |
The Pros and Cons of Each Plan
Service Plan Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Encourages regular servicing
- Usually included with new car purchases
- Can be extended beyond factory warranty
Service Plan Cons
- Doesn’t protect against high-cost wear
- Can leave you unprepared for unplanned breakdowns
Maintenance Plan Pros
- Covers both preventative and corrective repairs
- Financial peace of mind
- Helps maintain resale value
- Often includes extras like roadside assistance
Maintenance Plan Cons
- Higher upfront or monthly cost
- May include fine print exclusions
- Some providers lock the plan to a specific dealership
Which Plan Gives You More Value in South Africa?
Let’s get real: value isn’t always about the lowest cost. It’s about how well the plan protects you from unpredictable financial hits and aligns with how you use your vehicle.
A Service Plan may suit you if:
- You’ve bought a brand-new or demo model
- You drive under 12,000 km per year
- You already have extended mechanical warranties
A Maintenance Plan may suit you if:
- You rely on your car for work or daily travel
- You’ve experienced mechanical problems in the past
- You want a one-stop solution for vehicle upkeep
In cities with heavy stop-and-go traffic, rougher roads, or extreme temperatures (like Gauteng or the Northern Cape), parts wear out faster — and that’s where a Maintenance Plan can save you money and stress.
How AUTO24 Can Help
At AUTO24, we go beyond just selling cars — we help you protect them too. Our partners offer flexible, transparent Service and Maintenance Plans, tailored for:
- Hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, bakkies
- Daily commuters, fleet owners, and weekend drivers
- New or used vehicles, with options to upgrade or extend
All plans come with:
- National workshop access
- Clear terms and zero fine print tricks
- Options to roll the cost into your vehicle financing
Your Car, Your Choice — Just Make It an Informed One
Whether you choose a Service Plan for peace of mind during routine maintenance, or a Maintenance Plan to protect against costly surprises, the key is choosing protection that matches your lifestyle.
Ready to take control of your car care?
Visit AUTO24.co.za to explore Service and Maintenance Plans that make owning a car in South Africa simpler, smarter, and safer.
