What service does my car need?
Monday 11th March 2019
A car service is a routine check-up at a garage where a mechanic will assess your vehicle’s condition. They will check for signs of wear and tear on parts such as the engine belt, brakes, and filters. It is common for mechanics to change the oil filter as part of your car’s service along with recommending you replace any other car parts that may need it. A car service can help you identify any issues and resolve fix them before they cause a breakdown or to fail an MOT.
How often should you service your car?
As a general rule, it is recommended you get your car serviced at least once a year. Many manufacturers recommend getting your car serviced based on mileage depending on the type of car you have; you can find your car's recommended service schedule in your vehicle handbook. It is worth noting that modern cars may have an indicator that reminds you when you are due a service, considering the mileage and time since your last service.
Here at Formula One Autocentres, we offer two vehicle servicing options based on the mileage and age of your car:
- Interim service
- Full service
We recommended having your service completed at the same time as your annual MOT so that your car is being safety checked in all aspects. This is when a Full Service would always be the most appropriate for your car and also the best deal.
However, if your car is suddenly experiencing unusual grumbles or noises, or you are about to change your driving pattern (e.g. changing from short distance driving to long-distance driving), an Interim Service may be in order.
Is a service the same as an MOT?
A service is different to an MOT. Although many garages offer both at the same time, they are not the same.
A service is not a legal requirement, and its purpose is to look for signs of wear and tear to help keep your vehicle performing at its best. An MOT is an annual test to check the safety of your car to ensure it is safe for the road and is a legal requirement if your vehicle is over 3 years old. You are not able to drive your car without a valid MOT.
How do I know when to get my car serviced?
Overall, it is recommended that no longer than 12 months or 12,000 miles should pass without a service. There are many signs to look out for that may indicate you are due a service. There can include;
- Grinding gears
- Noisier exhaust system
- Warning lights
- Vibration while driving
What service does my car need?
Depending on the mileage your car has done, or how old it is, can determine which service is required for your vehicle. Whether that’s an Interim service or a Full service from Formula One Autocentres, learn the types of car services available, and which one is right for your vehicle today.
Types of car services
Although not a legal requirement like an MOT is, ensuring your car is serviced is just as important to your safety, and the health of the car. Servicing keeps your vehicle running at its best, and also reduces the risk of breakdowns. But what service does your car need?
- Interim Service
An Interim service should be completed every 6,000 miles that your vehicle does, or every 6 months - whichever is sooner. - Full Service
This is recommended to be completed every 12,000 miles that your vehicle does, or every 12 months – again, whichever is sooner.
The Full Service looks to cover off a lot more elements than the Interim Service does. An Interim Service doesn’t cover elements such as checking the condition of the battery, checking handbrake linkages and checking the clutch for slipping or judders. So, having two Interim Services twice a year would not be beneficial – as there would still be elements from the Full Service which would not have been checked at all during the year. Find our full breakdown of what both services cover now.
Looking to book in your next service with Formula One Autocentres? Locate your nearest MOT test centre now and book your service online with us today.
