While servicing your car may seem like a chore when combined with compulsory MOTs and standard everyday maintenance, undertaking a car service regularly can improve your driving experience, keep you safe on the road and even save you money in repair costs – but what is a car service and why is regularly servicing your vehicle so important?
What is a car service?
A car service is a detailed check-up of your vehicle that’s carried out by a professional auto shop or garage. Getting a car service differs from getting an MOT in that MOTs are a legal requirement to ensure that your car is roadworthy, whereas a car service is a detailed test of your vehicle’s optimum performance that’s carried out according to manufacturer guidelines – think of getting an MOT as a check-up at the doctor’s office and a service as an appointment with a specialist. Getting a car service regularly can also be considered as a pre-emptive measure taken to prevent or minimise performance issues that could lead to your vehicle failing its annual MOT.
What does a full service include?
While the kind of service required for your vehicle will depend on your car’s age, mileage and model, a full service usually includes testing and maintenance of up to 50 separate components of your car. This can include: engine tuning and oil change; suspension and steering alignment checks; testing your car’s cooling system and electrical system; checking the coolant, fuel and hydraulic fluid levels; replacing air filters and checking the car’s brakes, tyres, lights and exhaust. The good news is, it’s possible to complete a comprehensive car service without breaking the bank.
Why is car servicing so important?
Completing a car service and regularly maintaining your vehicle is essential if you want to get the most out of your car, save money and stay safe when driving on the road. By carrying out a car service, your mechanic or garage will be able to identify any minor issues or functionality issues, which you can deal with before they spiral out of hand and become more potentially dangerous and expensive to repair. The more you care for your car, the longer it is likely to last on the roads – just like humans, cars need regular attention and health check-ups. As well as providing extra safety, longevity and reduced auto expenses in the future, regularly servicing your car is often a requirement of your vehicle warranty, which means you will have to undertake car servicing to meet warranty conditions. Failing to do this could see you out of pocket if your car is involved in an accident or in need of major repairs in the future.
