Benefits of Regular Car Servicing: Save Money and Avoid Breakdowns
When it comes to keeping your vehicle in prime condition, car servicing is essential. Routine vehicle maintenance can save you time, money, and unnecessary headaches down the line, especially when it comes to avoiding MOT failures. But how do you know when it’s time to book your next car service? Ignoring the warning signs could leave you stranded on the roadside or facing costly repairs. In this article, we’ll explore the top five signs that indicate your car needs servicing and how it helps you minimise the risk of a breakdown.
Top 5 Signs You Need Car Servicing Before a Breakdown Strikes
1. Warning Lights on Your Dashboard
Modern vehicles come equipped with dashboard warning lights to alert you when something’s amiss. If your engine management light, oil pressure warning, or any other indicator comes on, it’s a clear sign that your car requires immediate attention. Ignoring these warnings could lead to more significant issues.
Booking a regular car servicing appointment can help identify and rectify potential problems before they escalate. For example, at our Elite Garages MOT Shaftesbury branch, we provide expert diagnostics and fast, reliable solutions for all types of car issues. Whether you’re in Shaftesbury, Mannings Heath, Horsham or another area like Newport, you can count on us to keep your vehicle in excellent condition.
2. Strange Noises Coming from the Engine
If your car starts making unusual noises, it’s more than just an annoyance – it’s often a sign of something more serious. Grinding, squealing, or rattling sounds under the bonnet are usually indicators of problems with the engine, brakes, or other vital components. Ignoring these noises might cause irreversible and expensive damage.
At our MOT Newport centre, our experienced technicians can assess the problem during a car servicing appointment, ensuring your vehicle is safe and roadworthy. Addressing these issues early can save you from a breakdown – or even worse, a failed car MOT. The good news is that you can book a free MOT retest within 10 days at one any of our branches except Strood since they do not perform MOTs.
3. Reduced Fuel Efficiency
Have you noticed that your car is using more fuel than normal? A decrease in fuel efficiency is often a sign that you need a car servicing appointment. It could be due to several factors, including blocked air filters, under-inflated tyres, or engine issues.
At the Elite Garages MOT Horsham branch, routine car servicing checks will help improve your fuel efficiency by ensuring all components are working as they should. Whether you’re in Portsmouth, Bournemouth, Newport, Horsham, or nearby Caterham, our skilled team will ensure your vehicle runs smoothly and economically, helping you save on fuel costs over time.
4. Unusual Vibrations or Pulling While Driving
If you experience vibrations through the steering wheel or notice your car pulling to one side, it could indicate issues with wheel alignment, suspension, or tyres. These are not only uncomfortable but can be dangerous if left unchecked. They are also common causes for car MOT failures, especially if they affect the handling and safety of your vehicle.
For peace of mind, all of our MOT and car service centres provide expert wheel alignment and suspension checks as part of our comprehensive offering. Don’t wait until your next car MOT to address these issues; trust our skilled teams to help ensure your vehicle is at its best.
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5. Brakes Feeling Spongy or Less Responsive? Car Servicing Can Help
Your brakes are one of the most critical safety features in your car. If they start to feel soft, spongy, or less responsive, it’s a sign that your brake pads or fluid levels need checking. Faulty brakes are not something you can afford to ignore – they could lead to serious accidents or leave you stranded.
At our MOT Shaftesbury centre, for example, we will thoroughly inspect your brake system as part of your car servicing appointment. And if you’re due for a car MOT, our team is here to ensure that your brakes meet safety standards to avoid an MOT failure. Not sure of your MOT due date? Check your vehicle registration here.
Keep Safe with Regular Car Servicing at Elite Garages
Regular car servicing is the key to avoiding unexpected breakdowns, improving fuel efficiency, and extending the lifespan of your vehicle. Whether you’re driving a BMW, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Hyundai, Honda, Toyota or Peugeot, Elite Garages provide comprehensive services to most makes and models – and don’t forget our wide range of car tyres!
Lastly, and just as importantly, addressing these signs early when your car’s next MOT is due can be the difference between passing and failing. Don’t wait for a breakdown—book your car servicing appointment today!
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