What gets checked during a car service?
It’s really important to get your car serviced regularly if you want it to stay safe, efficient and reliable.
Servicing is something you will need to have done at a professional garage by a mechanic – it’s not something you can do yourself. And that means it will cost money – like fuel, it’s a cost you need to factor in when you’re considering buying a car.
At the end of each service you’ll receive a stamp in your car’s service book.
A complete service history is one of the things you should always look for when buying a used car – and something potential buyers will look for if you ever decide to sell your car.
Don’t be tempted to cut corners by putting off your annual service, or waiting until there is a problem with your car before taking it to a garage – regular servicing is a must!
Don't be tempted to miss your service to save money.
There are 2 types of service available:
- Interim service
- Full service
An interim car service should be carried out every 6 months or 6,000 miles to keep your car safe and roadworthy in-between full services, which should be carried out every 12,000 miles or 12 months.
To find out what gets checked at a service, see the table below:
| Interim Service | Full Service | |
|---|---|---|
| Oil and Oil Filter Replacement | ||
| Brake Fluid | ||
| Anti-freeze Coolant | ||
| Windscreen Wash | ||
| Power Steering Fluid | ||
| Lights | ||
| Windscreen Wipers | ||
| Battery Condition | ||
| Charging System | ||
| Exhaust System | ||
| Tyre Tread and Pressure | ||
| Full Brake Check | ||
| Steering Check | ||
| Shock Absorbers Check | ||
| Suspension Check | ||
| Auxiliary Drive Belt Check | ||
| Wheel Alignment Check | ||
| Wheel Bearing Check | ||
| Wheel Balance | ||
| Brake Fluid Condition | ||
| Fuel Filter (Diesel) | ||
| Spark Plugs (Petrol) | ||
| Air Filter |
Speed
Acceleration
Braking
Cornering
As an Ex. Motor Mechanic, it’s very important to find a trustworthy garage (speak with your friends who know reliable garages).
Speaking from experience, there is no guarantee that you will get a better job done at a Main Dealer, plus servicing and parts are more expensive.
It pays to know it a bit about cars, to avoid getting ripped off and grossly overcharged (I wish this wasn’t true, but I think this is especially true for lady’s).
I use a garage, which was recommended by my pastor, and the mechanic has been servicing my cars for years. He will only replace parts if necessary.
Regular Servicing is essential, to reduce running costs, extend the life of the vehicle, and improve road safety.
Peter D’Silva.
Exmouth.
thanks…..good information….I have to get my car serviced ,I will take care that these points are checked