Keeping up with your auto maintenance checklist is the greatest method to maintain your car in good shape. Regular maintenance can save you money in the long term while also keeping your automobile running smoothly and safely.
Car service fees might be exorbitant. How frequently should you have your car serviced?
There’s no need to rush your car into the garage every month, but a yearly service can provide a slew of advantages.
We’ll go over basic manufacturer recommendations based on the vehicle’s mileage/age and the frequency of each type of servicing.
Is it necessary to service your car once a year?
A car service may not be at the top of your priority list, but it is an excellent opportunity to have your technician inspect your vehicle in between MOTs.
Regular servicing results in a more reliable car because any major faults are likely to be discovered sooner rather than later.
Service intervals will vary depending on the vehicle, but you should service your automobile at least once a year, or every 12,000 miles.
Most car manufacturers may provide a time frame or mileage for having your car serviced, which can generally be found in the owner’s manual. You can also check the last service date in your V5C log book, which should have a stamped record of your car’s full service history.
What type of service do I require?
The frequency with which you get your automobile maintained is also determined by the sort of car service you have had performed, as what constitutes a car service differs between the three types:
1. Interim service
More comprehensive than a MOT but not as extensive as other services, interim services are often performed every 6 months.
2. Full service
In addition to everything covered in the interim service, full services include an oil change, fluid top-up, and check of the condition of the radiator, air filter, fuel cap, and other components. These are normally performed once a year.
3. Major service
A major service includes all features of the interim and full services, as well as a brake fluid change and cabin filter replacement. Because major maintenance encompass practically every part of the vehicle, they are normally performed every 24 months.
If you’re still unsure, read about the distinctions between interim and full service.
How long can you go without having your automobile serviced?
Following the service schedule recommended for your make or model is ideal for your car. Putting off your service means you might be driving with broken spark plugs, poor tyre pressure, and lower fluid levels than you should be. Improper coolant, engine oil, and brake fluid levels could all be causing damage to your vehicle.
But there’s no need to panic if you’ve neglected to schedule your servicing; simply make sure to schedule it as soon as possible.
Missing the nearest service and delaying until your next service might diminish your car’s resale value, shorten its lifespan, and leave you driving with potential problems.
If you have a new automobile that is still under warranty, the manufacturer may void your warranty if you do not maintain it properly and have it serviced on a regular basis.
If you don’t drive your automobile very often, you might question if you can wait longer for service. The reality is that you must stick to the timetable, whether you frequently use the highway or simply go to the store once a week. Components naturally degrade over time, so you should have it checked up as soon as possible for all sorts of motoring.
When does my automobile need to be serviced?
Setting yourself reminders is the greatest method to stay on top of your car servicing schedule. You may set notifications on calendar apps like Google Calendar, or you can download car maintenance apps. Follow the date of your last service and the recommendations in your owner’s manual.
Otherwise, between your annual service and MOT, you should have few troubles to deal with, but there are a few warning flags to look out for:
1. Dashboard Warning Lights – Even if you haven’t noticed any problems with your car’s performance, noticing one or more lights is a clear indication that it needs to be fixed.
2. Decreased power – Decreased power is natural as your automobile ages, but it usually happens slowly over time, so any unexpected changes should be investigated.
3. Ineffective brakes – Modern technology has assured that your car’s braking systems remain fully responsive even as it ages. Slow or unresponsive brakes should always be examined by a professional, regardless of the age of your car.
4. heavy emissions – Dark or heavy smoke might signal a variety of issues ranging from leaks to obstructions.
How often should I service my leased car?
The driver is responsible for leasing automobile maintenance, not the leasing company (the registered keeper of the lease car). Your contract will include that you must maintain the vehicle properly, including regular servicing.
You’ll use the same service intervals for leased cars that you would for a car you own. Lease car maintenance packages, which include servicing, are available from leasing companies.
If you’re on a high mileage lease, you’ll need to pay particular attention to the intervals because you’ll most likely require more frequent servicing than standard mileage vehicles.
Conclusion
Unfortunately, car service fees do not include repairs, so scheduling regular servicing is the best way to minimize major difficulties and their associated expenditures.
Though it takes longer than a MOT, car servicing is usually quick. If you’re worried about time, see our page about how long a car service takes, or talk to your technician about combining your service and MOT.