What service does my car need?
Tuesday 4th March 2025
It depends on your vehicle’s age, condition and model, but mileage often decides service intervals. Formula One Autocentres offer full and interim services, both are designed to ensure your car runs smoothly, safely, and will ultimately increase your car’s lifespan.
Unlike an MOT, a service isn’t a legal requirement. The service is a series of procedures to test how efficiently the car runs. Although, Formula One Autocentres makes it cost-effective and convenient to book both at the same time.?
A service is not a test your vehicle could fail and is completely voluntary. There are no hidden costs as no additional work will be undertaken in a full or interim service. Our mechanics will however let you know if they notice any issues that may need addressing in the future. A full service will prevent minor issues becoming major ones and provide you with peace of mind. Would you prefer to drive with a weight off your shoulders knowing your vehicle is dependable, roadworthy, and holds high resale value?
Types of vehicle service
If you’re unsure which service is most appropriate for your car, browse our quick run-down of each, below:
Interim service
- Every 6 months or 6,000 miles (whichever comes first).
- Covers a comprehensive list of maintenance checks with the vehicle on the floor and ramp.
Full service
- Every 12 months, or 12,000 miles (whichever comes first).
- Covers everything checked in the interim service, as well as the battery condition, handbrake linkages and a clutch inspection.
- Adds value if you’re selling your vehicle for new buyers.
You can find a checklist of full and interim service jobs, here.
What you need for a vehicle service
Once you’ve decided which service you would like for your vehicle, you can book your service here, and bring the following things with you:
- vehicle service logbook (V5C): Your technician stamps this once the service is complete and notes the due date or mileage of your next recommended service. This should be updated if you plan to sell your car, as a full-service history shows that the vehicle has been looked after. However, at Formula One Autocentres, we can manage your service history in our online system – so don’t panic if you can't find your V5C.
- locking wheel nut key: This allows the mechanic to remove your wheels and check your brakes
How to find your car’s service history
- Contact your garage or dealership from the previous service.
- Get in touch with your car manufacturer who may keep an online version.
- Check your owner’s manual or other documents that came with the car.
Signs your vehicle needs a service
The following signs may indicate your car is overdue a service or needs to be checked at your local Formula One Autocentres branch:
- Squealing brakes
- Grinding gears
- Noisy exhaust
- Warning lights
- Vibration while driving
How can Formula One Autocentres help with vehicle services?
Worried about upfront costs? Formula One Autocentres offers an affordable, manageable, and customised plan to spread the cost of a service over 2 years. The Formula One Autocentres Servicing Plan could include two full services as well as oil supplements and two MOT tests. Keep your vehicle in good health with convenient monthly payments today, and book in for your next service.
