What Does a Car Service Include?

27th January 2024

Knowing what’s included in a car service may be confusing, picture it like giving your car a regular health check. It isn't just a maintenance chore; it's an investment in your car's safety and efficiency.

This guide will walk you through the main elements of a standard car service, explaining why this routine check-up is vital to keeping your car reliable and long-lasting.

What Is a Car Service?

Getting your car serviced means giving it a detailed once-over and some necessary maintenance to keep it working well for the long haul. It involves a set of checks and tune-ups performed by experienced mechanics or technicians.

Regular servicing is vital to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly, maintains safety standards, and avoids unforeseen breakdowns. It involves both preventive maintenance and inspections to identify potential issues before they escalate into major problems.

The frequency of a car service often depends on various factors, such as mileage, age of the vehicle, and manufacturer recommendations. Generally, it is advisable to have a full service annually or after covering a certain mileage, typically around 12,000 miles.

By adhering to a regular service schedule, you not only enhance your car’s performance and safety but also potentially save money by preventing major mechanical issues.

What Does a Car Service Include?

There are generally three different types of car service, all including slightly different checks. These being: a standard inspection and maintenance service, essential safety checks and additional safety checks.

Standard Inspection and Maintenance Car Services

A typical car service includes a range of essential maintenance tasks aimed at preserving the integrity and performance of your vehicle. These services are designed to address critical components and ensure everything is functioning optimally. Some of the primary maintenance services included in a standard car service are:

Engine Oil Change: This involves draining the old oil, replacing the oil filter, and refilling the engine with fresh, high-quality oil. It helps lubricate the engine, reduce friction, and extend its lifespan.
Air Filter Replacement: The air filter is crucial for preventing dirt and debris from entering the engine. Regular replacement ensures efficient engine performance.
Fluid Level Checks & Top-Ups: Fluid levels such as coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid are inspected and topped up where needed to maintain optimal levels.
Tire Inspection & Rotation: Tire condition, pressure, and tread depth are checked. Rotation helps ensure even wear and extends tire life.
Brake System Check: Inspection of brake pads, discs, callipers, and brake fluid levels to ensure they're functioning correctly and safe for driving.
Battery Inspection: Checking battery health, terminals, and connections to prevent unexpected breakdowns due to battery issues.
Wiper Blade Replacement: Checking and replacing worn-out wiper blades to maintain good visibility during adverse weather conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement (if applicable): Essential for proper engine ignition and performance.

These maintenance services form the backbone of any car service, ensuring that your vehicle's vital systems are in excellent working condition.

Essential Safety Checks

In addition to the more basic maintenance services, a comprehensive car service includes a thorough assessment of critical safety components. These safety checks aim to ensure that your vehicle is not only running efficiently but is also safe to drive.

Some of the crucial safety checks encompass:

Lights & Signals: Verification that all lights, including headlights, indicators, brake lights, and hazard lights, are in working order. Ensuring proper illumination is vital for your safety and that of others on the road.
Steering & Suspension: Inspection of steering components and suspension system to guarantee proper alignment, responsiveness, and stability while driving.
Exhaust System: Examination of the exhaust system to check for leaks, damage, or excessive emissions that might pose a risk or indicate underlying engine issues.
Seatbelts & Airbags: Verification that seatbelts retract and latch securely. Checking the airbag system to ensure it's functional in case of an emergency.
Windshield & Rearview Mirror Condition: Inspection for any cracks, chips, or damage that might impair visibility, ensuring a clear line of sight for safe driving.

These checks contribute significantly to the overall safety of your vehicle, providing peace of mind and ensuring you and other drivers are protected while on the road.

Additional Safety Checks

Beyond the fundamental and essential safety checks, a comprehensive car service includes additional examinations to address various aspects of your vehicle's safety and performance. These checks go the extra mile to ensure that your car operates at its best and that potential issues are identified and resolved promptly.

Some of the additional safety checks included in a thorough car service may be:

Wheel Alignment & Balancing: Verification and adjustment of wheel alignment and balancing to enhance steering stability and tire longevity.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement: Replacing the cabin air filter ensures that the air you breathe inside the car is clean and free from contaminants.
Fuel System Cleaning: Cleaning the fuel system helps maintain optimal fuel efficiency and engine performance by removing deposits and impurities.
Transmission Service: Inspection and maintenance of the transmission system to prevent issues and ensure smooth gear shifting.
Timing Belt Replacement: Replacing the timing belt at recommended intervals to prevent potential engine damage and maintain proper engine function.
Air Conditioning System Inspection: Checking the air conditioning system to ensure it operates efficiently, providing comfort during your journeys.

These additional safety checks contribute to the overall reliability and longevity of your vehicle, ensuring a smoother driving experience and reducing the risk of unexpected issues.

Understanding How Costs Add Up:

When it comes to getting your car serviced, knowing what affects the bill can be a bit of a puzzle. Several factors play a role in how much you'll be paying:

What Kind of Service You Need: There's a range of service types out there, from basic checks to more thorough packages. Each one comes with its own price tag.
Your Car's Personality: Your car's make and model matter. The fancier or more specialised your wheels, the higher the potential cost, as they might need specific TLC.
Who's Doing the Service: Different garages have different prices. Some might charge more because they're in posher areas or have a top-notch reputation.
How Much Your Car Needs: The depth of the service matters. If your car needs more than the basics - like an alignment or some part replacements - it's going to cost a bit more.
What Parts Are Used: The quality of the parts used can affect the bill. Sometimes, sticking with the original parts can be pricier, but they might just be worth it in the long run.
The Work Complexity: How tough the job is can affect the price. More complex work or tasks that need a lot of time and attention can hike up the cost.
Unexpected Surprises: Sometimes, during a service, they find something that needs fixing urgently or needs a part replaced. Those surprises can mean extra costs.

Why Checking Around Matters:

Getting multiple quotes can be highly beneficial in a few ways:

Seeing Things Clearly: By checking prices from different places, you get a better idea of what's a reasonable cost for your service.
Checking Quality: It's not just about the money; it's about what you get for it. Looking at different quotes helps you find the best mix of good service and good value.
Finding Your Perfect Match: It's like finding the right person for a job. By comparing quotes, you can find the service provider that fits your car's needs and your wallet.

Luckily for you, MotorEasy has you covered! You can save up to 40% on your car services with our multi-year service plan, along with comparing your local garages all in one place.

Why Keep Up with Regular Car Servicing?

Imagine a doctor's check-up for your car. Regular servicing makes sure everything's in top shape, reducing the chances of any nasty surprises on the road.

Save Some Pennies: It might seem like a hassle, but regular servicing can save you a bunch in the long run. It helps catch those tiny issues before they turn into wallet-draining problems.
Green Is Good: A well-serviced car usually runs more efficiently, sipping less fuel and cutting down on those carbon emissions. Good for your pocket and the planet!
Longer Car Life: Think of it as giving your car a long, happy life. Servicing keeps all those essential bits running smoothly, extending your vehicle's lifespan.
Avoid the Breakdown Blues: Nobody likes getting stranded on the side of the road. Regular checks can stop those unexpected breakdowns from spoiling your day. Why not check out our breakdown cover?
Increase Your Resale Value: If you ever decide to part ways with your car, having a full service history can make it more attractive to potential buyers. It's like having a shiny, well-kept diary for your car!
Stay Warranty Safe: Sticking to the manufacturer's servicing schedule helps keep that warranty valid. Missing services might void your warranty - nobody wants that!

In Summary:

Regular car servicing isn't just a task to check off your list; it's your vehicle's ticket to a long, healthy life on the road. From keeping your engine in top shape to ensuring your safety, it's a small investment that pays off in a big way.

So, brand new sports car or trusty four-by-four? Whatever your car, ensuring your car gets the TLC it needs is key to a smooth ride and peace of mind.

Ready to get your car serviced? MotorEasy makes it effortless. With expert recommendations and a network of trusted garages, booking your service through us is a breeze. Say hello to hassle-free servicing and goodbye to car worries.

Book your car service today with MotorEasy and keep your wheels running like a dream!