Tips you should never miss for car servicing

With the ever-changing economy of the UK, many cities such as London, Manchester or, for that matter, even Stoke on Trent are great cities; a joyous melting pot of culture, art, and multiculturality – but are becoming expensive places to live, with everything, from rent to loaves of bread, seeming to cost just a little more than is comfortable. With this economic load as a constant reminder to be frugal, it can be quite tempting for one to look for areas to cut costs – such as on car servicing. They look after their car, the reasoning might go, so it won’t hurt to miss just one service. However, this is faulty reasoning, and getting a car serviced should be seen as an investment: paying a little money now to save oneself from high car repair bills in the future.

Let’s take a look at some more tips one should never miss for car servicing before one books their car servicing.

Regular servicing is key

Manufacturers recommend getting a car serviced every 12 months or every 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. This is because of all the consumable parts (air and oil filters, for example) which can degrade both with use and over time. It’s also akin to a ‘medical check-up’ for the car, ensuring there are no small problems which might, with time, grow into large issues without prompt attention.

Team the service with the MOT

Once a car is three years old, it will legally need an MOT certificate to prove its roadworthiness. This means that one will have to book and take an MOT test every year. Booking an annual service to coincide with the MOT is an effective way to ensure the car is in optimal condition before the  test. The mechanic can assess it and address any minor issues that might have led to advisory warnings on the MOT. While car servicing isn’t a legal requirement, the MOT is. Combining the two can simplify things and provide peace of mind that the car is as safe and sound as possible. One can also book car servicing in London DAT Tyres’ local garages.. Their experienced technicians ensure all cars meet manufacturer standards: one can book online today.

Keep a logbook

When one wants to sell their car, having a carefully maintained logbook is almost as important as having a well-serviced vehicle. The logbook serves as proof that the car has been serviced regularly, and it allows prospective buyers to see that the owner has been a careful and conscientious driver. If they are considering the car amongst several others, the sight of an immaculate logbook could provide the extra persuasion they require to meet the asking price.

Know the different types of service

Services fall into three categories, although most drivers with a relatively short daily commute will only have a full service once a year. But for drivers who cover a lot of miles, or who have to use rough or poorly maintained roads frequently, the other categories of service might come into play.

Interim service

These services are usually done six-monthly, between major or full services, to ensure that the car is still in good condition, on vehicles with high mileage or heavy use. The oil filter will be changed, and the oil drained and replaced. While this is ongoing, the mechanic will visually assess the condition of the engine, letting the owner know if there are any issues beginning to make themselves known.

Major service

Air and fuel filters are changed, and if the car’s ventilation system has consumable filters, these will be changed too. The mechanic will visually assess more of the vehicle to make sure everything is as it should be, once again alerting the owner to any potential problems.

Full service

The car is completely checked out; fluids such as brake fluid; coolant and hydraulic fluid are drained and replaced, and petrol cars will benefit from new spark plugs, as well as all the items in the above descriptions.

Once one knows what each descriptor means, they will be able to let the mechanic know what kind of a service the car need.

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