Recommended manufacturer service

Checking engine oil is a crucial part of car maintenance. It’s essential to understand what engine oil does, the type your vehicle needs, and how to top it up properly.

Different types of engine oil can make it confusing to know which one is right for your car. Using the incorrect oil can damage your engine, so always check your vehicle’s requirements.

Here at Auto Fit Bedford, we have mechanics who can replace your oil and filters, brake pads, and discs, or provide a full vehicle health check. Call us on 01234 215 500.

Manufacturer Approved Servicing Explained

Manufacturer approved servicing differs slightly from a manufacturer service in that your car is serviced by a dealership approved by the manufacturer, rather than directly by the manufacturer (e.g., Fiat or Peugeot).

The key point is that you’ll receive the same level of service from an approved dealership as you would from a manufacturer-owned dealership. These approved dealerships employ manufacturer-trained technicians and mechanics and use genuine manufacturer-approved replacement parts along with the latest servicing equipment. This ensures you get the same quality service with added convenience.

Common Questions About Vehicle Servicing

Do I Have to Get My Car Serviced at the Dealership?

You are not required to get your car serviced at the dealership where you purchased it, but regular servicing is essential. Whether you own your vehicle outright or have it on finance, you must service it at regular intervals, typically determined by mileage or time (e.g., every 12,000 miles or every 12 months).

For safety reasons, it’s recommended to service your car at least once a year, with additional summer or winter health checks. Manufacturer approved dealerships offer the same technical expertise as the manufacturer, often with added service plans.

Should I Get My Car Serviced by the Manufacturer?

Whether you service your car directly with the manufacturer or at an approved dealership is a matter of personal preference. Approved service centers offer convenience and may be closer or more affordable. A full car service in the UK averages between £200 and £400, depending on the vehicle size. For a precise quote, contact a manufacturer approved dealership.

How Often Should I Get My Car Serviced?

To maintain optimal performance, service your vehicle as recommended by the manufacturer or dealership. Generally, this means a full service once a year or every 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. Frequent, long trips necessitate more frequent servicing.

How Long Does a Full Car Service Take?

A full car service typically takes around two hours, but allow up to three hours. Some service centers might need your car for the day if they’re busy. Many dealerships offer waiting areas or courtesy cars.

What’s Included in a Full Car Service?

A full car service, recommended annually, involves thorough inspections to ensure your vehicle’s good working order. This may include an ’80-point inspection’ checking the most crucial parts and components. Typically, a full service includes:

  • Oil change
  • Oil filter replacement
  • Fuel filter replacement
  • Drive belt inspection
  • Alternator hose inspection
  • Brake pad inspection
  • Wheel checks and tire inspection

Will My Car Get Cleaned as Part of the Service?

While a car clean is not standard, most manufacturer approved dealerships offer a complimentary vacuum of the car’s interior.

Is My Car Warranty Void if I Don’t Get It Serviced?

While regular servicing is not legally required (unlike an MOT), not adhering to the manufacturer’s service recommendations can void your vehicle’s warranty. Always check with the dealership and read the small print to ensure you follow the service plan as recommended. Failure to do so can void any warranty on a new car or an extended warranty on a used car.

Get your car booked in today with Auto Fit Bedford.

Need us to check and book you in for a service? Provide us your details and we’ll give you a call to discuss the best availability at your convenience. 

Be roadsafe
With Auto Fit Bedford, we can have you booked in for an MOT at your earliest convenience to ensure your car is roadworthy and safe for you and your passengers.
Done in the hour
Did you know an MOT can be completed as little as an hour. We have great Wi-Fi and seating area. We also have a genuine Italian Pizzeria next door.