Car Servicing Tips Every Driver Should Know

At Elite Garages, we love sharing valuable insights and expert advice on car maintenance. Today, we’ll answer a pressing question many vehicle owners have: How long can you truly go without car servicing? We’ll explore the benefits of regular car servicing, the dangers of neglecting vehicle maintenance, what to expect during a car service, signs that your car may need servicing, and some advice on MOTs. So, let’s kick into gear and get started, shall we?

Servicing your car regularly is the best way to keep it running safely and reliably. We recommend getting your vehicle serviced at least once a year or every 12,000 miles – whichever comes first. However, if you’re driving in difficult conditions, such as on rough terrain or over extended distances, you may need to bring forward your service dates. Remember, prevention is always better than cure!

Benefits of Regular Car Servicing: Keeping Your Vehicle in Prime Condition

Regular car servicing helps you keep your vehicle in excellent condition. It prevents major component failures, keeps your engine running smoothly and efficiently, and prolongs the life of your car. Plus, if you ever plan on selling your vehicle, regular maintenance may increase its value. Here is a more detailed breakdown:

Proper Maintenance Results In Optimal Performance

Regular car servicing plays a vital role in keeping your vehicle in prime condition. During a service, skilled technicians inspect and address any underlying issues, ensuring that your car continues to perform at its best. From engine tune-ups to fluid checks and replacements, each aspect of the service contributes to a well-maintained vehicle. Here are some of the benefits of regular car servicing:

Car Servicing Enhances Safety on the Road

Safety should always be a top priority when it comes to car ownership. Regular servicing helps identify potential safety hazards before they become major problems. Brake inspections, tire checks, and suspension assessments are just a few examples of how a comprehensive service can enhance the safety of your vehicle.

Car Servicing Can Help You Save Long-Term

It’s a common misconception that avoiding car servicing saves money. In reality, the opposite is true. Timely maintenance helps prevent minor issues from escalating into costly repairs down the line. Regular servicing can also improve fuel efficiency, saving you money at the pump.

Improved Reliability

Servicing helps identify and address potential issues before they escalate into major problems, saving you from unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. If you aren’t already part of the breakdown service, try the AA or RAC!

The Dangers of Not Servicing Your Car

When you neglect car servicing, your vehicle’s performance and reliability can suffer. Over time, parts and systems may deteriorate, leading to decreased fuel efficiency, sluggish acceleration, and a higher risk of potential breakdowns. By booking a regular service, you can avoid these issues and maintain a reliable means of transportation.

An even bigger consideration is safety! Failing to service your car increases the risk of encountering safety hazards on the road. Worn-out brake pads, worn or damaged tyres and faulty lighting systems can compromise your ability to drive safely. It’s not worth risking your safety and that of other road users!

What to Expect at Your Next Car Service

During a car service, Elite’s expert technicians conduct a thorough inspection of your vehicle. They examine various components, such as the engine, brakes, suspension, steering, and electrical systems. This comprehensive assessment allows them to identify potential issues and provide the necessary maintenance or repairs.

Fluids are the lifeblood of your vehicle, ensuring smooth operation and lubrication of essential components. A car service includes checking and, if necessary, replacing fluids like engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid. Proper fluid levels and quality are crucial for optimal performance and longevity.

Filters also play a crucial role in maintaining the cleanliness of various systems within your vehicle. During a service, air filters, oil filters, and fuel filters are inspected and replaced if needed. As you can imagine, clean filters contribute to better engine performance and fuel efficiency.

How To Tell If You Need Car Servicing: Listen to the Warning Signs

As a responsible vehicle owner, it’s essential to listen to any warning signs your car may be communicating with you. This is often through various indicators, such as noises and sensations, indicating that something may require attention. Here are some of the most common warning signs that indicate your car may need a service:

Unusual Noises and Vibrations

Your car’s noises and vibrations can provide valuable clues about its health. If you hear unusual sounds such as squealing, grinding, knocking, or rumbling, it may indicate problems with the engine, brakes, suspension, or other components. Vibrations, especially at high speeds, could suggest issues with wheel alignment, tyre balance, or worn-out parts. If you notice any unfamiliar noises or vibrations, it’s important to book a service to diagnose and address the underlying issues.

Warning Lights on the Dashboard

Modern vehicles are equipped with sophisticated dashboard warning lights that illuminate when there’s a potential problem. These lights can indicate issues with the engine, brakes, battery, transmission, AdBlue or other systems. Never ignore a lit warning light, as it may be an early warning sign of a more significant problem. Have your car serviced at Elite Garages where our expert technicians will use advanced diagnostic equipment to identify the cause and provide a no-obligation quote for any necessary repairs or maintenance.

Changes in Performance

If you notice a decline in your car’s performance, it could be a sign that it needs servicing. Common performance issues include sluggish acceleration, decreased fuel efficiency, difficulty starting the engine, or rough idling. These symptoms can be caused by various factors, such as old or faulty spark plugs, clogged filters, fuel system problems, or engine issues. Our skilled technicians can diagnose the root cause and ensure your car is performing as it should through our comprehensive car servicing.

Fluid Leaks or Decreased Fluid Levels

Fluid leaks under your car or a noticeable decrease in fluid levels may indicate a problem that requires immediate attention. Leaking fluids can include engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, or transmission fluid. These leaks can lead to serious damage if left unchecked. If you see any fluid leaks or notice a sudden drop in fluid levels, make sure you book a car service as soon as possible to identify the source and prevent further complications.

Is a Cambelt Check Part of a Car Service?

Most vehicles require a cambelt (timing belt) to be checked every 60,000-100,000 miles or every 4-5 years. The purpose of the cambelt is to drive the crankshaft and other components in your engine – so it’s important that it functions properly. During a car service, Elite’s technicians can inspect your cambelt for wear and damage, as well as check its tension. If needed, they’ll replace the belt with an OEM (original equipment manufacturer) part at a reasonable price.

Recommended: How To Find A Reliable Garage For Cambelt Replacement

Car Servicing and MOTs

It’s important to remember that a car service and MOTs are two completely different procedures. An MOT is an annual inspection required by law for vehicles registered in the UK over three years old, while servicing is a regular preventative maintenance procedure designed to keep your vehicle running smoothly. If you need both services carried out on your car, make sure you book them separately at Elite Garages. You can find out more about MOT Tests and MOT Exemptions in this article and on the Government website.

Car Servicing at Elite Garages

By paying attention to your car’s warning signs, you can catch potential issues before they escalate into major problems. Unusual noises, dashboard warning lights, changes in performance, and fluid leaks are all signs that your car may need a service.

At Elite Garages, our expert technicians are equipped with the knowledge and expertise to diagnose and resolve these issues promptly. Don’t ignore the warning signs—book your car service today and keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely.

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