It may be a pain but regular car servicing is a necessity to keep your vehicle in tip top condition and to identify any problems before they become a major issue writes Suzanne Keane
When?
Depending on the make and model of your car it may let you know when a service is due via a dash warning or a garage sticker will inform you when the next service is due. Either way once a year is the maximum amount of time you should allow between services.
What?
A simple service will generally just involve changing of oil and filter on a regular basis. A good service will also include a general check over of all moving parts, bulbs and tyres etc. and may also include a diagnostic check to see if any issues have arisen since your last service. Depending on mileage it may also be time to change air and fuel filters, spark plugs, brake pads (and discs), all fluids, wheel bearings and timing belts among many other items. A car that is serviced on time will generally run better and be more economical to drive than a neglected one!
Where?
If your car is under warranty make sure to check the terms and conditions of servicing as going outside of these guidelines could invalidate your warranty. At a minimum you should ensure the garage you go to are using genuine parts.
Once your warranty period has ended you’ll have much more choice when it comes to servicing but that doesn’t mean you can sit back and relax! It’s important to keep up regular servicing and to ensure you’re getting the best possible service – the cheapest isn’t always the best value!
It’s important to find a garage you can trust but also to be aware of what parts need to be changed and when so that you’re not completely clueless and left open to bad service or overcharging.
No matter where you’re getting your car serviced make sure they fill in your service book so you have a detailed record of any work which has been undertaken – especially useful when it’s time to sell on your car!
Suzanne Keane
10th August, 2015
