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Why a Car Service is Just as Important as your MOT

Before we talk about the importance of a car service, you must remember that it is not the same as an MOT. If you’ve recently had an MOT, it doesn’t mean you no longer need a car service. The two are completely different elements to total vehicle maintenance. 

What’s the Difference Between a Car Service and an MOT?

It’s true that both involve taking your car to a service centre for a check-up but they are fundamentally different. Research has indicated that as many as 60% of drivers don’t really know the difference. Today, Elite Garages will take you through everything you need to know.

For a closer look at the differences, we go back in time to the 1960s. This is when the first MOT test came about under the direction of Ernest Marples, the Minister of Transport.

What Exactly Is The MOT?

Initially, the MOT was a basic test covering the brakes, lights and steering aimed at vehicles ten years old and every year thereafter. This became known as the “ten-year test”, or the “Ministry of Transport Test” (MOT). Today, the MOT covers a lot more and is a legal requirement for vehicles three years or older (Road Traffic Act of 1988).

The modern MOT checks vehicle safety, roadworthiness and exhaust emissions required by UK law. Examiners inspect the vehicle through comprehensive checks which include the interior, exterior, under the bonnet and under the vehicle. It’s important to remember that the MOT is only a visual check so examiners are not allowed to make any changes or repairs. For that, you need to book a service.

What Does The MOT Include?

Only centres with DVSA-approved examiners may carry out the test and the good news is Elite Garages have you covered. Our examiners conduct a series of checks looking at the following:

  • Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
  • Registration plate
  • Lights
  • Steering and suspension
  • Windscreen
  • Wipers and washer bottle
  • Horn
  • Seats and seatbelts
  • Fuel systems
  • Emissions
  • Bodywork
  • Doors and mirrors
  • Brakes
  • Wheels and tyres

Upon completion, the examiners will inform you of the results and advise if any work is required. If you fail the MOT, Elite Garages offer a FREE retest within 10 working days.

Recommended: ‘How To Pass Your MOT The First Time’

Car Services Explained

A car service is what keeps your vehicle in excellent mechanical condition. It involves actual repairs or replacement of parts and general maintenance. Whilst a car service is not a legal requirement, it is essential to ensure your and your family’s safety on the roads. It’s not something you should take lightly, especially with older cars.

Car services vary depending on the age and type of vehicle but most include changing the engine oil, spark plugs and filters (oil and air). Typically, you should service your car once a year or every 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. 

What Happens During a Car Service?

During a car service at Elite Garages, we check for any additional issues but won’t commence any work without your permission. Our technicians offer full transparency to give you and your family the peace of mind you deserve.

Our car service checks usually apply to safety-critical items such as tyres and brakes. We also never carry out unnecessary work and will keep all the old parts for your inspection. The service packages are tailor-made for you and include all the necessary checks you’d expect from a dealership. The Standard Service Pricing starts from £103 while our Premium Service Prices are from £180.

Why a Car Service is Important

As mentioned before, a car service is not a legal requirement and it’s entirely up to you. However, without servicing your car, chances are you will not pass the MOT. Besides that, here are some of the main reasons why you should:

  • A car service improves safety by reducing wear and tear
  • It can help identify unknown issues and provide peace of mind
  • Servicing can increase the lifespan of your vehicle. It’s important especially if you intend on keeping your car for some time or passing it on to your children.
  • A regular car service can save you money as it helps identify potential issues before they become serious and expensive to repair or replace
  • Changing oil and filters during a car service improves fuel efficiency
  • Evidence of regular servicing or an FSH (full-service history) can help increase the resale value

Final Thoughts

Following the car service schedules from the manufacturer is essential for extending the engine life. Some cars have a self-diagnostic system that indicates a service is due but many drivers ignore it. This will only lead to bigger, and more expensive, problems later on. When the warning light comes on, take your car for a service!

At Elite Garages, we specialise in servicing vehicles of all makes and models while only using original manufacturer’s parts. Our technicians and mechanics are fully qualified and highly experienced to ensure the ultimate in vehicle maintenance.

If you’re looking for a vehicle service centre you can trust, look no further than Elite Garages. We have 13 centres across the country ready to assist you in any way they can. You can even book your MOT or service online.

Read more about MOT Eastbourne and MOT Canterbury