Arranging regular services for your car will ensure it remains in prime condition, reliably getting you from A to B safely, but do you know how often this process should occur?
What is car servicing?
To ensure your vehicle is roadworthy, healthy, and safe to drive, you’ll need it to undergo a service. During this process, a trusted mechanic will inspect the condition of your vehicle and assess the quality of its mechanical and electronic systems. This includes the brakes, oil, and filters.
Depending on the findings from this inspection, your mechanic may suggest part replacements or repairs, providing your vehicle with the necessary care to ensure it runs safely. These repairs will lead to additional charges, but don’t let this put you off. Undergoing regular servicing can save you money in the long run, allowing faults to be caught early on and preventing them from worsening overtime.
What is the difference between an MOT and a service?
There is often some confusion over the difference between an MOT and a service. Many garages can provide both inspections in one visit, but they are in fact two separate assessments, and both are required. An MOT is a vehicle test that must occur annually to allow legal driving on British roads. This test assesses the roadworthiness of your car as opposed to the function of the mechanical and electrical components. With a failed MOT, or one that has expired, it will be illegal to drive your vehicle.
A service is not a legal requirement, but it is strongly advised in order to keep your vehicle running healthily. This process will give you the confidence that your vehicle is safe and free from faults.
How often should I arrange a service for my car?
Servicing schedules can vary depending on each vehicle. Manufacturer warranties can specify the regularity of your service requirements, and mechanics can also advise depending on what milestone is reached first. We would recommend that once a certain milage is reached, typically 12,000, it will be time to arrange for a service. However, if a full year passes before this is achieved, a service should be scheduled anyway. These should then be arranged annually to keep the health of your vehicle up, allowing it to run for longer and preserve its value when it comes to selling.
Can I find a service schedule?
If you have purchased a secondhand vehicle, you may be unsure on the last service date. Within your vehicle, you should be able to locate a service book that states the latest date and details of repair or replacement work. If this method is not applicable to you, you can contact the vehicle manufacturer. Giving the year, model and engine type of the car will allow you to find out the latest service information.
Do electric or hybrid vehicles require servicing?
Whilst the engine types vary, electric and hybrid vehicles will still require – and benefit from – an annual service. Factors such as the brakes, suspension and steering can still be assessed, providing confidence in the working functions of your vehicle. In addition, some electric and hybrid vehicle manufacturers may specify that their vehicles require annual servicing to remain within the warranty, but these costs can be expected to be lower than for fueled vehicles.
For additional information on car servicing, as well as MOTs, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team at RKH Service and Repair. We will be happy to help. Give us a call on 01233 877797 or email us at admin@rkhserviceandrepair.co.uk.
