What sets the service interval?
Every car’s service interval is set by the manufacturer, usually as both a mileage and a time limit — whichever comes first. You’ll find it in your owner’s handbook or service book. Even a car that hardly moves needs servicing, because oil and some fluids degrade with time.
Handbooks often list shorter intervals for “severe operating conditions”: lots of short trips, heavy stop-start traffic, dusty roads, or heavy loads in hot weather are typical examples.
What does a routine service include?
The exact scope depends on the model and which service is due. In general it covers:
Parts and fluids replaced
- Engine oil and oil filter — using oil that meets the viscosity and specification in your handbook
- Air filter and cabin (pollen) filter
- Fuel filter, spark plugs and brake fluid, according to the schedule
Items checked
- Brake pads and discs
- Tyre tread depth, pressures and wear pattern
- Coolant level and antifreeze protection, screenwash
- Belts, hoses and any leaks
- Battery, headlights, indicators and wipers
- Suspension and steering joints
The cost of putting it off
An engine whose oil isn’t changed on time wears faster; a clogged air filter can hurt fuel economy; a belt left past its replacement point can leave you stranded. The checks done during a service are a chance to catch small problems before they become expensive ones. We go into more detail in why regular car maintenance matters.
Keep your service record
The date, mileage and parts replaced at each service are valuable both for planning the next one and for showing the car’s history when you sell it. After each service we give you a written list of the work carried out.
With winter on the way, our winter car maintenance checklist helps you plan ahead. For faults spotted during a service, see our mechanical repair page.
How the process works
Vehicle details
We check the manufacturer’s schedule for your make, model, engine and mileage.
Replacements
Oil, filters and any other scheduled items are replaced with parts and fluids of the right specification.
General inspection
Brakes, tyres, fluids, belts, lights and underbody are checked.
Report and advice
We tell you what was done and anything to keep an eye on, and note when the next service is due.
