Whether you’re a new car owner or you’re someone who hasn’t paid much attention to the state of their vehicle until the very last minute, having your car serviced is an important part of staying safe on the road – both for you and for other road users. With this in mind, you may have questions such as what are the different types of car service available to you, what service do I need for my car, or do you need to service your car every year? The answers to these questions are very important because not servicing your car on time means that your vehicle could be unsafe to drive, it could affect your car’s resale value, raise your insurance premiums and so much more. So, with this in mind, it’s important to know what types of car service in the UK are available to you and which one you should choose. Let’s take a closer look.
Types of car services
Let’s start with the basics first. The answer is quite straightforward if you are unsure of the types of car service available on the market. You have three options, and you can choose between an interim, full and major car service. Each of these service types looks at various different aspects of your car and its functioning, they each have different requirements and include different levels of care for your car. Here is a brief breakdown of each type of service and when you should go about having one done for your car.
Interim car service
The general rule of thumb for an interim car service is that it should be performed every six months or 6,000 miles, depending on which one you reach first. This is the most basic type of car service and covers all the fundamental aspects when you are ready to service your car. We’ll cover what goes into an interim service a bit further on.
Full car service
The second type of service is considered a more thorough service. The full service is generally performed annually or before the mileage travelled reaches 12,000 miles.
Major car service
Finally, there is the major car service. This can take place every two years or every 24,000 miles, whichever one comes first. It is the most comprehensive service type offered, despite the fact that it can be called other different names by different service providers. Now that you know about the types of car service in the UK, let’s explore what the two primary ones – the interim and full car service – involve.
What does an interim car service include?
Although different service providers check for different things, some of the most common aspects that will be covered in your interim car service include the following: Pre Engine Checks:
- Check timing belt replacement interval.
- Check for damage to bodywork, lamps, trims and oil level.
- Fit protective covers.
- Check the operation of interior and exterior lights.
- Check the operation of ABS and airbag warning lights.
- Check windscreen washers and wipers.
- Check the horn.
- Apply Forte treatments to remove internal contamination.
Under the Bonnet:
- Check the cooling system including fan operation.
- Check and record Anti-Freeze protection.
- Check and record brake fluid condition.
- Check and top up all under-bonnet fluid levels.
Vehicle Raised:
- Change oil, filter and fit new sump plug washer.
- Check fuel lines and brake pipes.
- Check the condition and security of the exhaust.
- Check all steering and suspension joints, mounting and gaiters.
- Cary out tyre report.
- Check all wheel bearings for excessive “play” and noise (adjust).
- Check CV gaiters and joints wear or splits.
- Check the operation and condition of the front brakes.
- Carry out brake report.
Vehicle Lowered:
- Refill engine with specified grade oil.
- Torque wheel nuts/studs.
To Finish:
- Road test vehicle and report any findings.
- Re-check engine oil levels.
- Ensure all upholstery, gear level, steering wheel, etc are clean.
- Stamp service book(s).
What does a full car service include?
On the other hand, because a full service takes place after longer mileage has been driven or more time has passed, it is more comprehensive than an interim service. Therefore, it will include all of the above in addition to the following: Pre-Engine Checks:
- Check vehicle history.
- Check condition and operation of all seat belts.
- Check air conditioning operation, including bad odour.
- Check operation of suspension dampers.
- Lubricate all door hinges, locks and bonnet catches.
- Check fuel cap.
Under the Bonnet:
- Check all auxiliary drive belts (not timing belt).
- Check engine breather system.
- Check vacuum pipes.
- Check throttle ixxfy. Clean if required.
- Check battery level and lubricate terminals.
- Replace air filter.
- Replace spark plugs.
- Replace fuel filter.
- Replace pollen filter.
Vehicle Raised:
- Check and top up axle and transfer box oil levels.
- Check and tip up gearbox oil levels.
- Check clutch cable/cylinder.
- Grease all greasing points.
- Check operation and condition of rear brakes (inc. handbrake).
To Finish:
- Carry out diagnostic check.
- Reset service interval indicator.
Do I need a full or interim service?
So, now that you have a better idea of what goes into the primary or most frequent service types when it comes time to service your car, you may be wondering if you need a full or interim car service or how do you find out what service your car needs. Use the guidelines above to help you make this important decision. For example, interim car services should be performed more frequently as they look at generally minor car issues. Full car service types, on the other hand, should be performed around once a year, and they are much more comprehensive and will ensure your car is in a great driving condition and safe on the roads for you and for other road users.
Does my car need a service every year?
The short answer to the question of whether your car needs a service every year is yes. Whether you do two interim checks every six months or an annual check for your full service, your car should be serviced at these intervals in order to maintain its longevity, check for any potential faults that may have arisen in the meantime and to ensure your vehicle is in great driving condition. Alternatively, if your car is newer or an electric model type, you should check the car service details in your owner’s manual for a full-service schedule as well as all the necessary checks that need to be made.
Looking for a car service in Leicester?
If you’ve been monitoring the time and mileage related to your car and it’s time to get a car service, you’ll want to choose a reliable and trustworthy partner to ensure your car is completely safe on the roads. You’ll also want to make sure that you opt for a car service centre that doesn’t charge you exorbitant amounts. Your service should be as affordable as it is of a high-quality standard. With us, this is guaranteed. So, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us for your car service needs. We’re just a call or a click away and ready to assist you.