Maintaining your vehicle is essential to keeping it in top shape, and regular servicing is a crucial part of this. Although not legally required on an annual basis like an MOT, neglecting a service can lead to dire consequences. An MOT will identify any necessary repairs to keep your vehicle roadworthy, while a service offers a proactive approach to minimize the likelihood of future major issues. Don’t risk the health of your vehicle, make servicing a priority!
What is a car service?
A car service is a comprehensive examination of your vehicle that is performed by a mechanic. It is designed to evaluate the state of the major components and ensure that your vehicle is functioning at its best. Services are a vital aspect of vehicle ownership for various reasons, including maintaining its value, detecting problems before they escalate, and promoting road safety. Depending on the interval between services, the extent of the examination can vary, with the most comprehensive services involving over 50 checks, adjustments, and replacements of parts. A regular car service is essential to keeping your vehicle in top condition and on the road.
Types of car service
When seeking a service for your car, there are three options available, depending on either the distance traveled since the last service or a predetermined time frame.
| Service type | Service Interval |
| Regular maintenance | When oil and filter need replacement |
| Interim Service | Every 6 months or 6,000 miles (whichever comes first) |
| Full Service | Every 12 months or 12,000 miles (whichever comes first) |
| Manufacturer Service | As per manufacturer service schedule, check your car manual for information |
Keeping track of the services performed on your vehicle since ownership is crucial for several reasons. This information is valuable when it comes to selling the car or ensuring its proper maintenance. Regular services and a record of what was done during each one can impact the car’s value and overall condition.
What needs servicing regularly?
While a car service is not mandatory by law, keeping your vehicle in top condition throughout the year is essential. A service may involve over 50 points of inspection, with some covering as many as 80. Regardless of whether it is an interim or full service, there are key components that require the expertise of a mechanic. These are the most commonly addressed parts of the vehicle during a service.
Oil changes
Changing the oil in your car is critical for ensuring a safe and reliable engine. Oil acts as a lubricant for vital components and helps maintain the proper operating temperatures within the engine and its systems. Using old or dirty oil can negatively affect fuel efficiency, emissions, and performance. While an oil change is not a requirement, it is recommended to have it done during a full service to maintain the health of your vehicle.
Tyre pressure and conditions
Travelling frequently and on varying road surfaces can take a toll on your car’s tires, causing pressure and tread wear. During a service, a mechanic will examine the tire’s condition, pressure, and tread and replace them if needed. Additionally, various fluids play a crucial role in maintaining your vehicle’s health. During a service, the mechanic will evaluate and replace the brake fluid, screen wash, coolants, power steering fluid, anti-freeze concentration and other important fluids if necessary.
Spark plug replacements
While manufacturers typically suggest changing spark plugs every 30,000 miles, they should be inspected during each service. However, the frequency of replacement may vary based on driving style, vehicle model, and the condition of other parts that may affect the spark plugs.
Air/cabin filter changes
A simple air filter check involves removing the airbox and replacing the filter. The air conditioning unit can also undergo recharging, but this usually comes with an added cost.
Braking system checks
Ensuring the safety of your vehicle is crucial and a mechanic can perform an inspection of the components that make up the braking system, as well as a fluid check.
Electronics
Modern vehicles are equipped with various types of technology, ranging from essential to comfort-enhancing to driving-assisting features. A service performed by a mechanic can include checks on some or all of these technologies.
It’s important to remember that while these inspections are not required by law, they serve to guarantee the safety, roadworthiness, and prevent potential costly issues from arising in your vehicle.
Does your car need a service?
If your car is making unusual sounds, or experiencing rough or unsteady performance, it may be experiencing a common issue. Regular car servicing is important to maintain the vehicle and avoid major problems from occurring. It’s recommended to have your car serviced annually at minimum, and if you want to keep up with maintenance and reduce costs, you can consider a service or MOT plan to spread the expenses over two years. Signs of the need for a service shouldn’t be ignored, and if in doubt, a visit to a mechanic can resolve any problems and ensure the car is roadworthy.
How long does a service take?
Planning a visit to a garage or scheduling a mobile mechanic is the next step after understanding the components of a car service. The time required for an interim service can range from three hours to a full day, depending on the vehicle, any potential issues, and the availability of the necessary tools and parts. Combining the service with an annual MOT can save time and money as many tasks can be performed simultaneously. The duration of the service may vary.
How often should you service your car?
Scheduling regular car services is important to keep your vehicle running smoothly and avoid potential issues. There are five main types of services to consider: regular, manufacturer-recommended, interim, full, and diagnostic. A regular service can occur several times a year and covers the replacement of oil, fluid, or filters. The manufacturer-recommended service is specific to the make and model of your car, as outlined in its manual. An interim service is recommended every 6 months or 6,000 miles, whichever comes first, and is less extensive than a full service, which should be done yearly or after 12,000 miles. If you notice any unusual behavior in your car, take it in for a service immediately.
What are the risks if you don’t?
A car service is essential for maintaining your vehicle’s safety, longevity, and value. Neglecting to service your car can result in negative consequences, including fines and legal action, breakdowns, and decreased fuel economy. A full service history can even increase the value of your vehicle if you plan to sell it. Additionally, adhering to a manufacturer’s service schedule can keep your warranties valid, while a lack of regular servicing can affect your insurance coverage. Ultimately, investing in regular car services will help save you money in the long run by preventing costly repairs and breakdowns.
What is a service plan?
A car service plan is a cost-effective solution where a customer pays a fixed amount, either monthly or annually, for a specified number of services during the agreement period. It is a popular option for new cars and ensures that the vehicle receives regular maintenance and maintains a comprehensive service history.
The type of service included depends on the customer’s chosen plan. By opting for a service plan, customers can enjoy the advantages of routine servicing without the burden of unexpected costs.
Moreover, regular servicing can address small issues before they escalate into bigger problems, ensuring a smooth and trouble-free driving experience.
What can you do?
It is important for all car owners to take an active role in car maintenance, even if they are not knowledgeable about car mechanics. This helps to keep the vehicle in top condition before a service or MOT.
Regular checks on brakes, gearbox, exhaust, battery, dashboard warning lights, and other components should be done throughout the year. These checks can be done by a mechanic or by the car owner themselves.
Ignoring warning signs and neglecting car maintenance can lead to bigger problems and added costs down the road. It is crucial to be aware of the signs that indicate a car needs a service, and to address these issues promptly. By doing so, car owners can help preserve their vehicle and save money in the long run.