Any car owner likely knows that car servicing is an important part of vehicle maintenance, however some might not realise just how important it is to stick to service schedules. Keeping to regular servicing intervals can keep your vehicle in the best shape possible for longer, and even help to discover growing issues before they can become expensive or impossible to fix. While each manufacturer may have different suggested schedules, they follow a similar pattern. Here’s what you need to know:
What Is Car Servicing?
Car servicing is the process of having certain parts of your vehicle inspected and tweaked by a qualified mechanic. They will typically inspect the most important and key parts of your vehicle, including the brakes, oil, filters, electronic systems and more to ensure that they are in proper working order and aren’t in need of any repair or replacements. They can also replace certain fluids if you have a petrol or diesel engine to ensure that any dirt-filled and old oils and fluids are removed and replaced by fresh ones to prevent clogs and debris build up. There are two core types of service – full, and interim. Each one has a different use:
Full Service
A full service is the service that most drivers will opt for in order to stick to the manufacturer’s schedule. This is the service that usually takes place every 12 months or 12,000 miles. A full service will include everything you could possibly need from a servicing appointment – a mechanic will inspect:
- Headlights, indicators etc.
- Horn
- Windscreen and wipers
- Filters
- Number plate
- Mirrors
- Seatbelt
- Engine components, e.g filters, systems, oil leaks etc.
- Top up fluids or replace (e.g. screenwash, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid
- Brakes
- Tyres
- Steering and suspension
- Exhaust
- Electronic systems
- And more.
Interim Service
Interim services take place more often, but don’t cover all of the same things that a full service would. Interim services typically focus on a general visual inspection of key elements of the vehicle. Interim services will also always include an engine oil change, and an oil filter change as standard. This kind of service should usually take place every 6,000 miles or 6 months.
Why Should I Service My Vehicle?
Regular vehicle servicing is important for any vehicle owner, whether you have a brand new car or a used model. By keeping up with manufacturer-advised service schedules, you can better maintain your vehicle and keep it running at its best. Without regular servicing and oil changes, your car could see declining performance due to dirt and debris buildup. Services can also catch other problems building in your vehicle, whether it’s rust, parts that are on their last legs or replacement spark plugs – a service can catch these issues before they become bigger problems and make you aware of them in order to book in the appropriate repairs.
If you’re looking to book your vehicle in for a service, we are on hand to help. Our qualified mechanics can conduct both full and interim servicing according to your vehicle’s schedule. Simply get in touch with a member of our team to book in with your local Service4Service garage, today.