Statistics show that the number of car repairs in the UK fluctuates on an annual basis, with 2018 displaying a peak of 1.89 million car repairs that took place. With this in mind, it shows the necessity for car servicing to help keep on top of any repairs. Maintenance and repair service stats of motor vehicles have shown an increasing trend over the past ten years in the UK, showing that vehicle care is becoming a common part of our routines.
But what is a car service and why is it important to us as drivers? Here’s what you need to know.
What is a car service?
A full car service differs from an MOT service, as it’s there to check that your car is healthy, beyond checking whether it’s road-legal. After doing routine maintenance checks, mechanics that have completed your service can advise you on what may need fixing, if necessary.
It gives mechanics the chance to check your brakes, oil levels, engine and more, allowing you to box off smaller repairs before they become more costly later down the line.
How often should you service your car?
To keep your car in top condition, regular servicing is essential. For older vehicles, this is usually every six months, while newer cars may require it after around 30,000 kilometres. Partnering with a trusted car mechanic ensures that vital checks, such as oil changes, brake inspections, and fluid top-ups are done thoroughly and on time. This not only extends your vehicle’s lifespan but also helps prevent costly repairs down the road.
Some vehicles with modern technology have a service light, however it’s recommended that you don’t take this as a direct guide, and instead use the timescales above. At the same time, if it displays after getting it serviced recently, it could indicate an issue that needs addressing.
Why regular car servicing is necessary
Car services exist to keep road users safe. They can be used to help identify and repair issues before they manifest and increase the likelihood of a breakdown or accident while out on the road. It’s also something to consider when buying a car. A car with a thorough service history shows that it’s been taken care of, indicating that you’re getting good value for your money. Skipping a car service could be doing more damage to your vehicle than you might expect.
There might be hidden damage that needs addressing that only a mechanic would be able to spot. For example, you might have issues with your engine. Driving without enough oil can cause internal damage too, so ensuring you get this topped up with regular services is also important to consider.
Car services can also help to increase fuel efficiency by ensuring that everything is functioning well internally. The last thing drivers want is to find out that their vehicle is consuming more fuel than they expected, therefore costing them more money over time. And when it comes to selling your car, a good history of services can help with its resale value. Sometimes, regular car services are a necessary part of your vehicle warranty to keep it valid.
