Keeping your car in good working order is essential not only for your safety, but also to avoid costly breakdowns and ensure a long service life for your vehicle.
In this article, we focus on servicing that is not mandatory (such as MOT) but is recommended.
Below, we explain when and how a vehicle should be serviced and what aspects to take into account.
Why you should service your car
Performing regular car services is not only good practice, but also a key activity for several reasons:
- Road safety: Components such as brakes, tyres, lights and steering can deteriorate, and a service helps to detect problems before they become a risk to you and others.
- Prevention of costly breakdowns and saving money: A preventive check-up allows you to identify leaks, fluid loss or wear and tear before they cause serious damage.
- Warranty: If your car is new, following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule is usually a requirement for maintaining the warranty.
- Preparing for trips: Before going on a long journey, a service gives you peace of mind (fluids, tyres, lights, etc.) and reduces the possibility of unexpected problems.
- Resale value: A maintenance history shows that the car has been well looked after, which can increase its value if you decide to sell it or buy a second-hand car.
- Before purchasing a second-hand car, it will be useful for detecting possible damage or faults that have not been mentioned. In addition, you will be able to assess whether the value of the vehicle corresponds to the agreed price.
- Contract compliance: In cases such as leasing, regular servicing is usually included in the contract to ensure the vehicle is in good condition.
How often should the car be serviced?
The frequency of servicing depends on several factors: the type of car, its use, mileage, age, etc.
There is no single rule for everyone, although the following is recommended:
- First service: for new cars, it is recommended that they be serviced between 10,000 and 30,000 km (6.000 - 18.500 miles).
- Second and subsequent periodic services: subsequent services should be carried out every year or every 10,000 - 20,000 km (6.000 - 12.000 miles), and should be much more comprehensive.
- If the car is old or used daily, it should be serviced every 6 months or every 10,000 km (6.000 miles).
- Tyre pressure should be checked monthly, and oil and filters should be changed according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
- Before going on trips or long journeys, it is essential to have a check-up to avoid any unforeseen events.
What is checked during a car service?
During the service, multiple elements are evaluated to ensure that the vehicle is in optimal condition.
Among the most common are:
- Change and check of oil and filters (oil, air, fuel, cabin).
- Fluid levels: brakes, coolant, windscreen washer, steering, among others.
- Brake system: pads, discs and fluid.
- Tyres: pressure, tread and wear.
- Lighting: operation of headlights, indicators, brake lights.
- Mechanical inspection: engine, transmission, steering, cooling system, suspension, etc.
- Other elements: battery, shock absorbers, alignment, exhaust system, depending on the type of service.
How much does it cost to service a car?
The cost of a service in the UK varies considerably depending on the type of service, garage and vehicle:
- A basic service costs between £150 and £300, while a more comprehensive service can cost between £200 and £300 or more, depending on the garage.
- At multi-brand garages, a simple service can cost between £100 and £150, and a comprehensive service at an official garage can exceed £500 - £900 in some cases.
Factors that influence the price:
- Type of workshop: official vs multi-brand.
- Make and model of the car: high-end cars or those with complex components tend to have more expensive servicing.
- Services included: check-up only or oil change, filter, fluids, etc.
- Need for repairs detected during the service: if faults are found, the cost can rise significantly.
DIY service vs Workshop service
Both options have their pros and cons:
DIY service
- You can perform basic checks: tyre pressure, oil level, brake fluid, lights, etc.
- It is economical (you only spend money on fluids or small spare parts).
- It requires basic knowledge and some time.
Workshop check-up
- Professional: use of tools and experience to detect problems that are difficult to see.
- Includes oil changes, filters and mechanical checks.
- Warranty: if you have your car checked at an official or authorised workshop, you help to maintain the car's warranty.
- Higher cost, but also more comprehensive and reliable.
Frequently asked questions
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about car servicing
Is it compulsory to have your car serviced at a workshop?
It is not compulsory to have all services carried out at an official workshop, but it is highly recommended to ensure that all components are properly checked.
In addition, to maintain the manufacturer's warranty, many brands require you to follow their official maintenance programme.
Do you receive a sticker after the service?
No. Unlike the MOT (Ministry of Transport), the maintenance service does not result in an official sticker.
It is simply a check of the condition of the vehicle.
What happens if I don't have my car serviced?
If you don't have your car serviced regularly:
- You may be at greater risk of serious breakdowns.
- You may not detect safety issues (brakes, tyres, etc.).
You could invalidate your warranty if your manufacturer requires you to follow a maintenance schedule.
You may have more difficulty passing the MOT: although the service is not the same as the MOT, poor maintenance can lead to failure in the inspection.
Conclusion
Whether for safety, to know the resale value or to maintain the warranty, regular inspections are extremely important.
Do not wait for the mandatory MOT to invest in your vehicle and get it ready.
