Getting your car serviced: Why Car Servicing is Important

A car service is not a legal requirement in the UK unlike the annual MOT, but regular service can mean catching any problems and therefore any nasty, expensive surprises before the MOT.

A programme of regular servicing will help keep your car running efficiently as possible. A service will check and test various parts and functions and in a full service, the list of checks is extensive, including everything from moving parts in the engine and pivotal components such as brakes and suspension to things like door catches and hinges, and tyres.

All these checks, when ticked off as positive, will help to keep your car running as efficiently as possible which also saves you money on fuel costs and reduces the risk of any future breakdowns. Of course, it also goes a long way to ensure your car is as safe as possible.

When your car is serviced you will receive a written transcript of all the items checked which can be of help when the time comes to sell your car. Regular servicing helps to maintain its value.

How Often Should You Get a Service?

Because there is no legal requirement, it can be confusing as to when you should get your car serviced. Manufacturers generally recommend following these simple guidelines:

You should have your car serviced

– Every 12 months or 12,000 miles driven

– Every 6 months or 6,000 miles driven.

Essentially, the more miles you do in a given period, the shorter the time there should be between services. Your owner’s handbook will provide further information. When you do a lot of mileage and require two services a year, it is usual that one is an interim service and one is a full service.

Interim vs Full Service

An interim service makes fewer checks than a full service. The most vital components and areas that contribute to efficiency and safety are examined. This includes the fluids, the condition of the engines, plugs and filters, the batteries, lights, and the tyres.

If you live in Northampton or nearby areas, I recommend you to visit Calmac Tyres Autocentre, it is a fully VOSA approved Class 4 5 & 7 MOT testing and car service centre in Northampton.

Get your car serviced regularly and be a safe, efficient, happy driver!

This is a collaborative post