Labour rates for mechanics nationwide have increased 11.3% since the summer of 2006 to an average of £75.17 an hour.

According to data released by Warranty Direct, prices at independent garages have risen the sharpest to narrow the gap with the traditionally more expensive franchised dealer networks.

The average franchise dealer is charging £94.70 an hour today compared to £87.91 in 2006 - up 7.7%.

In comparison, the average rate for a mechanic at an independent garage has leaped by 14.9% over the same period - from £48.43 to £55.63.