We may all know that our cars should be serviced regularly, but that doesn’t stop us from dreading the annual or 6-monthly service or, even worse, putting it off. But why is a service so important, and what exactly does a mechanic do during a service?
A mechanic will have a list of points to inspect during a service and what is on that list will depend on the age and make of the vehicle, as well as the date of its last service. However, some elements will be covered every service in order to keep your vehicle in tip top condition.
Tyre pressure and condition – although your tyres are checked as standard during your MOT test, tyre checks are an important part of the service. Your mechanic will check them for wear and tear as well as checking the pressure. While an MOT test tells you if your tyres are in safe condition now, a service will let you know if you are likely to need to replace them in the near future.
Oil and filters – oil lubricates the engine, helping everything to run smoothly and reducing friction which, in turn, will prevent your engine from overheating. Old or contaminated oil will make your vehicle run less efficiently so you use more fuel and produce more emissions. It’s not compulsory to change your oil, but it is advisable. Likewise, during a service, air filters will be checked and replaced as necessary.
Electronics – remember the days when a vehicle had about as much to do with electronics as a bicycle? Well, they are long gone! From light and windscreen sensors to radios and keyless entry and ignition, modern vehicles are as reliant on electrics as they are on fuel. Your service will make sure that your electrics are all in top working condition, so that, whether they are designed for comfort or your safety, they work in all conditions.
Spark plugs – most manufacturers will recommend that your spark plugs are replaced every 30,000 miles. However, your mechanic is likely to check them as standard during your service as the condition can vary according to driving style and the general condition of other parts of the engine.
In tough times, servicing a vehicle may be at the bottom of your list of priorities. If this is the case, there are some things that you can do. If you are relatively handy, depending on the make and model of your car, you may be able to undertake an oil or filter change yourself. You can also easily check your own tyre pressure and make note if one tyre tends to be losing pressure more quickly than others. Some garages offer service plans, where you can pay for your services in advance via monthly instalments. If this could help you to fit servicing into your regular maintenance routine, speak to your local garage to see what they can do to help.
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