Thinking about whether a full car service is a must? It’s easy to get confused with what manufacturers suggest and legal obligations like MOT tests. Yet, regular servicing is key for your car’s safety, how well it runs, and how long it will last.
Wonder why car servicing is so important? Find out why it’s valuable for your time and money.
What is a Car Service and Why is it Important?
A car service means keeping your vehicle well-maintained. It includes repairs and tune-ups after driving a certain distance or time. Manufacturers recommend when and how often servicing should happen. This keeps your vehicle maintenance at its peak and prevents costly auto repair bills. By servicing your car regularly, you’ll see benefits like saving money on fuel and knowing your car runs well.
Regular automotive maintenance needs more than just routine check-ups. It’s about keeping important parts up-to-date. This means changing oil and filters regularly, along with other fluids, like brake fluid or power steering fluid. Changing parts like wiper blades and brake pads also helps your car stay safe and efficient. A preventative maintenance check also looks at the condition of hoses and pipes.
An interim car service is a simpler service, done about every 6 months or every 6,000 miles. It’s not a full service but helps keep your car in good shape. It includes a 50-point inspection, an engine oil change, and a new oil filter.
A full car service is the biggest check-up. It’s recommended annually or every 12,000 miles. This deep dive ensures your car is fully serviced.
It involves a thorough mechanical inspection and changing essential items like engine oil and air filters. A qualified technician looks at all important parts, ensuring your car runs smoothly and safely.
For some higher-spec vehicles, following the manufacturer’s service schedule is best. This keeps the car maintained as the makers advise. You’ll need to visit a dealership/garage that’s linked to your car’s brand. They use parts from the OEM, and the technicians are experts trained by the manufacturer.
What to Bring for a Car Service
When you go for a routine car service, make sure you’ve got a few things with you. Having these items ready can make the service time smoother for all. It helps the mechanic start the work quickly and have everything for a thorough check.
Start by finding your alloy wheel keys or locking nuts. The mechanic needs them to take off the wheels. They check the suspension and steering this way. This makes sure they check everything and the service isn’t delayed.
Make sure your car is clutter-free, especially in the boot. A tidy car lets the mechanic get to every part easily. It helps them service your car fully. Keeping your car clean inside is a good habit for many reasons.
Don’t leave behind your service book. This book has all the work done on your vehicle in detail. The mechanic uses this info for a better service. It’s an important part of your car’s service history.
Taking these three items – alloy wheel tools, a clean car inside, and your service book – means you’re ready for a great service. You’ve got everything needed for the service to go smoothly and without delays.
| Items Needed for Car Service | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Alloy Wheel Keys or Locking Nuts | Necessary for the technician to remove the wheels and inspect the suspension and steering systems |
| Clutter-free Car, Especially in the Boot | Allows the mechanic easy access to all areas of the vehicle for thorough servicing |
| Service Book | Provides the technician with a detailed record of previous work done on the vehicle, helping to inform the current service |
Planning ahead for your service visit really matters. It ensures your car gets the best care without any problems. For more information or to book your service, give MOT West Bridgford a call at 0115 959 9144.
MOT Test and Car Maintenance Throughout the Year
The MOT test is key for your car every year.
It checks if your vehicle is legal and safe for driving on roads.
While different from an MOT, regular car services help keep your car running well.
The DVSA does the MOT test every year.
They look at your car’s emissions, brakes, steering, and lights.
Passing this roadworthiness check is a legal must in the UK to stay road legal.
To keep your car safe, do more than just the MOT. Always watch for dashboard warning lights, fix any strange noises or leaks, and deal with scratches in the paint. These steps ensure your car is in top shape throughout the year.
Remember FORCES for what to check regularly:
- Fuel
- Oil
- Rubber (tyres)
- Coolant
- Electrics
- Screen wash
By doing these preventative actions and keeping up with services, your car will be safe and roadworthy. This way of looking after your car not only avoids big repair costs. It also makes you feel secure on the road every day.
| Service | Description | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| MOT test | Annual check of vehicle roadworthiness and emissions | Every year |
| Car service | A thorough check and upkeep of various car parts | Varies, but about every 6-12 months |
| FORCES checks | Regular looks at key areas (Fuel, Oil, Rubber, Coolant, Electrics, Screen wash) | Every month is best |
Following this MOT testing and car maintenance guide is good for your car. It helps keep your vehicle safe and in good shape the whole year. For help or to book an MOT test in West Bridgford, call MOT West Bridgford on 0115 959 9144.
Conclusion
A full car service is very important for keeping your vehicle in good shape. It’s smart to keep up with either an interim service every 6 months or a full service once a year. This routine can stop big issues and save you cash in the long haul.
Getting your car serviced regularly is key, even if the law only asks for an MOT. It helps your car stay safe and efficient all year round. By sticking to the maker’s service plan, you won’t have to worry and you’ll have a smoother drive.
Looking after your car keeps it healthy and makes it last longer. It means less money spent on repairs and a car that’s safer to drive. Arrange a service now and enjoy your vehicle being well looked after.
For more information or to make an appointment, contact us 0115 959 9144 and email us [email protected] or visit our website.
Source Links
- https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/
advice/car-maintenance/how
-often-should-i-service-my-car/ - https://www.theaa.com/
car-servicing/advice/how-often
-should-i-service-my-car - https://www.halfords.com/
car-servicing/advice/what
-service-does-my-car-need.html
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