Every vehicle owner should schedule a service once a year or every 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. However, life sometimes gets in the way, and we may forget to take our cars in for this vital maintenance.
Luckily, our vehicles have several ways to let us know when they need attention, but it’s essential that drivers can recognise these signs early to prevent minor issues from becoming costly repairs.
Why is it crucial to service your vehicle?
A service is like a full health check for your car, where a mechanic inspects everything from fluid levels to general wear and tear. This check-up ensures your vehicle continues to run safely and efficiently.
Advantages of regular vehicle servicing
There are many benefits to ensuring your car is regularly serviced:
- Identify issues early: With the help of a trusted mechanic, you can catch small problems before they escalate into major faults. Addressing these early on could save you from expensive repairs in the future.
- Increase your vehicle’s longevity: Regular services help keep key components in top condition, meaning your car could stay roadworthy long after the warranty expires.
- Boost resale value: Vehicles that have been well-maintained often fetch higher prices on the second-hand market. Buyers are willing to pay a premium for cars with a full-service history, as it shows the vehicle has been looked after.
Consequences of neglecting to service your vehicle
If you avoid servicing your car, you may face some unwelcome consequences:
- Safety risks: A mechanic will identify any safety concerns during a service, potentially preventing accidents. Skipping services may lead to your car becoming unsafe to drive.
- Reduced fuel efficiency: Routine checks help your car run smoothly, but if tyres or other parts are neglected, you may find yourself spending more on petrol and other running costs.
- Premature wear and tear: Ignoring minor faults could lead to irreversible damage, resulting in the need to scrap or sell your car much earlier than expected.
Warning signs to watch for
Here are some common signs that your vehicle might need a service:
1. Dashboard warning lights
Few things say “your car needs a service” more clearly than a dashboard warning light. Modern vehicles typically display the word ‘SERVICE’ or a spanner icon when it’s time for a check-up. These lights may also be accompanied by text, telling you how many miles or days are left before a service is due.
In some cases, the service light will appear alongside another dashboard symbol, helping you identify the specific fault.
2. Unusual sounds
Clicks, hisses, ticking, or squeaking can all indicate potential issues under the bonnet. If the noise is urgent or worsening, pull over when it’s safe and call for assistance immediately.
For less critical sounds, pay attention to:
- When the noise happens (e.g. when turning, when idling)
- What the noise sounds like (e.g. rattling, clicking)
- Where it seems to be coming from (e.g. under the bonnet, underneath the car)
Providing this information to your mechanic can help them diagnose the problem faster.
3. Leaking fluids
If you notice a puddle under your car, first check if it’s due to rain. Water can also drip from the air conditioning in summer or from the exhaust in winter, both of which are harmless.
However, coloured liquids may indicate a more serious issue. For instance, brown fluid could suggest a leak in your oil, power steering fluid, or even brake fluid. If you suspect a brake fluid leak, do not drive the vehicle and contact a mechanic immediately.
4. Loss of power or stalling
If your vehicle struggles to maintain power or stalls frequently, it might need a service. Faulty spark plugs or fuel injection issues are common culprits, both of which a mechanic can easily address. In some cases, a clogged catalytic converter could be restricting airflow, which would also require attention during a service.
5. Brakes feeling different
Brakes are one of the most crucial safety features in your car, and if they start to feel less responsive, a service is in order. If you notice you’re pressing harder on the brake pedal, it could be due to leaking brake fluid or worn brake pads. Fortunately, these are straightforward fixes for a mechanic.
6. Smoke from the bonnet or exhaust
If smoke begins to escape from under the bonnet or the exhaust, it’s important to assess the situation carefully. If there’s a fire under the bonnet:
- Turn off the engine immediately
- Pull the bonnet release but don’t open it
- Get everyone out of the vehicle and move a safe distance away
- Call 999 for the fire brigade
- If possible, warn other drivers
For less urgent smoke, note:
- When the smoke appears (e.g. upon starting the engine, while accelerating)
- The smoke’s colour
- Whether the car is overheating
Providing these details to a mechanic can speed up the diagnosis.
7. Vibrations
Unusual vibrations or juddering while driving may indicate a problem with your car’s clutch or engine mounts. Vibrations at low revs can often signal that an engine mount is loose or worn out, which could lead to further damage if not repaired.
Does your vehicle show any of these signs? If so, contact Segensworth Automobiles on 01489 662 000 or email sales@segensworth-automobiles.co.uk for a service appointment.