We all know we should get our vehicles serviced once a year or every 12,000 miles—whichever comes first—but let’s face it, life gets busy. The good news? Your vehicle has its own way of waving a red flag when something’s not quite right.
Spotting the signs early can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your car running smoothly and safely for years to come.
Why Vehicle Servicing Really Matters
Think of a vehicle service like a health check for your car. A qualified mechanic will inspect everything from fluid levels to general wear and tear, making sure your car is safe, efficient, and roadworthy.
Top Benefits of Regular Servicing
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Catch problems early – A trained eye can spot potential faults before they become wallet-draining disasters.
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Prolong your car’s lifespan – Keep critical components in tip-top shape and your car could keep going well past its warranty.
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Boost resale value – A full service history is a big tick for buyers. It shows you’ve looked after your motor and helps you command a better price when it’s time to sell.
What Happens If You Skip It?
Put off your service for too long, and the consequences can creep up on you:
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Safety risks – You could miss key safety issues, from dodgy brakes to tyre wear.
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Poor fuel efficiency – Even simple issues, like under-inflated tyres, can lead to higher fuel costs.
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Costlier repairs down the line – Small niggles often grow into major problems if ignored.
Key Signs Your Car’s Due a Service
1. Dashboard Warning Lights
If your dashboard is lighting up like a Christmas tree—especially with a spanner icon or the word ‘SERVICE’—don’t ignore it. It’s your car’s way of saying “Take me to a mechanic!” Some cars even give a countdown to your next service or let you know if it’s overdue.
2. Odd Noises
Clicking, hissing, squealing or ticking? That’s not just background noise—your car could be crying out for help.
Listen for:
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When the noise happens (e.g., turning, idling)
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What it sounds like (e.g., rattling or hissing)
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Where it’s coming from (e.g., engine bay, underneath)
A detailed description helps your mechanic diagnose the issue quicker.
3. Leaks & Puddles
Noticed a puddle under your car? Rain or condensation might be the culprit—but if it’s brown or coloured liquid, it could be something more serious like oil, brake fluid or power steering fluid. Don’t drive until it’s checked out.
4. Loss of Power or Stalling
If your car’s struggling to pick up speed or keeps stalling, it might be something simple like worn spark plugs—or a bigger issue like a clogged fuel injector or catalytic converter. Either way, a service will get to the bottom of it.
5. Brakes Feeling Spongy or Weak
Brakes are your car’s most important safety feature. If you’re pressing harder than usual or hear grinding, it could mean worn brake pads or a fluid leak—both of which a mechanic can sort during a routine check.
6. Smoke from the Bonnet or Exhaust
Seeing smoke? Here’s what to do:
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If there’s fire: Switch off the engine, release the bonnet but don’t open it, move away, call 999.
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If it’s less dramatic: Note when the smoke appears, its colour, and where it’s coming from. This info helps your mechanic pinpoint the issue—whether it’s overheating, an oil leak or something electrical.
7. Unusual Vibrations
Feeling strange judders or shakes? It could be clutch wear, engine mount failure, or even an oil leak contaminating key components. A service will help identify the exact cause.
Think Your Vehicle’s Due a Check-Up?
Don’t wait for something to go wrong. If any of these signs sound familiar, book in with Segensworth Automobiles today.
Call us on 01489 662 000 or
Email: sales@segensworth-automobiles.co.uk