Mercedes-Benz has removed the age restriction on its Service Care monthly payment plan so owners with cars over seven years old can use it.

Prices start from £27 per month for a new Mercedes-Benz and £23 per month for a used Mercedes-Benz.

The Service Care package includes a set price for the length of the plan, with prices of parts and labour guaranteed for up to four services, at the customer’s choice of Mercedes-Benz dealership.

If the Service Care plan has been paid up-front it can also be transferred to the new owner.

Service Care also covers any additional items which are required at the time of service, including brake fluid, spark plugs, air filter, fuel filter and screen wash.

During 2012, more than 40,000 Service Care plans were taken out by Mercedes-Benz and Smart owners, of which more than 10,000 were with the purchase of a new car; an increase of more than 50% over the previous year.

Out of all the Service Care plan sales, 45% were covering the next three consecutive services, with the C-Class customers accounting for almost 14,000 of the plans.