Car servicing: hardly the most exciting of phrases, but one that all experienced drivers have learnt the value of. Just like a doctors’ checkup, getting your car serviced regularly can help identify and fix potential problems before they turn into larger issues. Even though the prospect of vehicle maintenance is, let’s face it, neither glamorous nor particularly appealing – in a world with so many demands on our time, thoughts and wallets, preventative action can fall way down the list – looking after your car is really worth it.
Most obviously, cars that aren’t serviced are more likely to break down. For example, a common reason for engine failure is problems with the engine oil, something that is easily picked up on during servicing. If the oil isn’t replaced, however, it can cause permanent damage to the engine, which can be costly to repair. It may even mean that the entire engine has to be replaced, something that will set you back at least a couple of thousand. Although getting your car serviced costs a small amount of money, think of it as insurance; potential problems can be fixed before the car breaks entirely. It’s much better to service regularly than have to replace expensive parts because of damage!
Servicing isn’t only about peace of mind, however; long-term, it can save you money. Under-inflated tyres, or old oil and air filters are just some examples of things that interfere with optimum fuel efficiency. Regular servicing can make your engine run more smoothly and save you money in the process. You need to find someone you trust when it comes to looking after your car. Just like the Car Servicing in Wakefield at Ossett Tyre House, it should be friendly and professional.
Finally although “treat ’em mean, keep ’em keen” might be your motto in other areas of life, it’s not quite true for engines. Regular servicing will reduce wear and tear and keep your car working better for longer. If you’re looking to re-sell, a regular service history will help your car maintain value in the competitive second-hand market.
How often should I service?
There’s a variety of myths on this one, from the people who tell you it’s a con (don’t believe them!) to slightly dodgy dealers who’ll give you a wildly high estimate. The best way to know how often your particular model needs a service is to check your owner’s manual. If you’ve lost your physical copy, many manufacturers have a version online you can check. For example, something that can vary widely by vehicle is how often oil the needs changing; common wisdom is to change every 3,000 miles but this is an estimate based on older, less efficient models. Most modern cars need their oil changed every 5,000 – 7,500 miles. At a minimum, you should be looking to service your car every six months.
Shouldn’t my MOT cover all of this?
Your yearly MOT checks whether your car is safe to stay on the road. So as long as it’s not going to cause an accident or break down catastrophically, it’s normally deemed fit to drive. This means that smaller issues, like spark plugs beginning to wear, low fluid levels, or a worn cambelt, often won’t be picked up – and these are the issues that cost you money in car running, or decrease the life of specific parts.
