Keeping your car running

Servicing will ensure your car is in good condition and catch any issues that might come up in your MOT. By getting your car serviced regularly you’ll be surer of it keeping its value for longer, as full-service history is a desirable selling point. 

To help you get a clearer picture, we’ve pointed out some of the benefits of regular car servicing.

Why should I service my car?

Beyond increasing your chances of passing your MOT, there’s a whole host of reasons for you to book your car in for a regular service. 

Check out these other benefits:

• Reduced risk of breakdowns

With servicing, wear and tear is easily identified, and parts can be replaced, reducing the chances of your car breaking down at the roadside.

• Increased safety

Your mechanic will identify any problems before they can turn into a major safety hazard

• Warranty benefits

Having a full-service history is a useful thing and may even come in handy at a later date for increasing the warranty of your car

• It keeps your engine healthy

A service will identify any oils and filters that need to be changed to prevent dirt and dust from getting into your engine, keeping it running nicely

• Increased fuel economy

Your car runs more efficiently when it's been serviced, saving you money at the petrol pump

• Longer vehicle lifespan

You'll get more miles out of a car that’s serviced and maintained regularly, reducing the need for an expensive upgrade

• Lower emissions

Servicing checks maintain the exhaust system on your car, reducing its impact on the environment

• Tyre conditions and safety

Regular servicing will allow your tyres to be checked for condition and tread depth, helping to prevent accidents – particularly in adverse weather

• Protect the car's re-sell value

If you ever decide to sell your car, then you'll retain much more value, and you'll get a better re-sale price if you can provide a full-service history for the vehicle

What does your mechanic do when they undertake a service?

Your mechanic will check several different areas when you book in for a service. These will vary depending on the level of service you ask for but will include the following:

• Engine oil and filter change

This is necessary to make sure your drivetrain runs smoothly and extends the engine life

• Fluids checks

This includes topping up and replacing transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, coolant, hydraulic fluid, and windscreen washer fluid

• Brake checks

Your mechanic will perform a specialised check of your car's brakes to ensure everything is working as it should and nothing requires replacing

• Engine ‘tuning’

This helps your engine run efficiently and checks that it's capable of safely handling the car

• Other manufacturer’s checks

These cover the suspension, shock absorbers, the engine battery, lights, windscreen wipers, exhaust, wheel and steering alignment, etc.

How often should these checks be done?

The regularity of servicing depends on your manufacturers' recommendations, but generally it's time for a service as soon as your car's service light comes on. This is typically once a year or every 12,000 miles – whichever comes first.

There are four typical levels of service offered by mechanics:

• Regular maintenance (often referred to as an oil change)

If you regularly clock up a lot of miles, this should happen any time your oil and filter need to be replaced, to make sure you keep everything running smoothly.

• Interim service

An interim service is for high-mileage drivers and should be done every 6 months or every 6,000 miles travelled – whichever comes first. It covers oil and filter changes, other key inspections and fluid checks.

• Full service

A full car service is typically required once a year, or every 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. In addition to the services provided in an interim service, your mechanic will check:

• Air and fuel filters
• Spark plugs change (petrol cars)
• Extensive brake inspection
• Wheel bearings and shock absorbers inspection
• Testing of electrical components (e.g., battery, alternator, and starter motor)
• Inspection of the air conditioning system
• Radiator and coolant hose checks

Published on 9th September 2021

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