The right service for your car

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.

Importance of Car Servicing

Car servicing is crucial for several reasons. Not only does it save you time and money by preventing major issues, but it can also save your life by identifying potential problems early on. Let’s delve into what’s involved in a car service and why it’s necessary even if you’ve recently had an MOT.

What is a Car Service?

A regular car service checks the overall condition of your car, including general wear and tear, fluids, brakes, the engine, and more. The specifics of each service may vary depending on your vehicle’s make, model, and age.

What Does a Full Car Service Include?

A full car service typically involves a comprehensive check of various systems and components, including:

  • Engine oil change and/or filter replacement
  • Checking lights, tyres, exhaust, and operation of brakes and steering
  • Ensuring your engine is tuned for peak performance
  • Checking hydraulic fluid and coolant levels
  • Inspecting the cooling system (radiators, pumps, and hoses)
  • Suspension checks
  • Steering alignment
  • Testing the car’s battery condition

Cost of a Full Car Service

The cost of a full car service varies across different providers and locations in the UK. It’s advisable to shop around for the best price, but remember that the service cost does not include repairs or replacement of new parts, which are charged separately.

Why Should You Have Your Car Serviced?

1. It’s Not the Same as an MOT

An MOT is an annual technical inspection focused on safety and legality, not designed to replace or repair worn components. A full service, however, addresses wear and tear to keep your car in optimal condition.

2. Pay Now, Save Later

Addressing minor issues early can prevent them from becoming major, costly problems. For example, changing the oil regularly can prevent engine damage, saving you from expensive repairs.

3. Save Money on Fuel

A well-maintained car runs more efficiently. With optimal engine and component performance, your car will be more fuel-efficient, saving you money at the pump.

4. Extend Car Lifespan

Regular servicing helps ensure your car lasts longer, delaying the need for a replacement vehicle.

5. Increase Resale Value

A full service history makes your car more attractive to buyers, allowing you to ask for a better price when selling.

6. Improve Insurance Valuation

In the event of an accident, insurers may use your car’s service history to estimate its pre-accident value. A full service history could lead to a higher valuation.

Duration of a Full Car Service

The time required for a full service depends on the type:

  • Interim Service: Takes about 1.5 hours and checks the main parts of your car. Recommended every 6 months or 6,000 miles.
  • Full Service: Takes around 3 hours and involves a thorough check of the entire car. Recommended annually or every 12,000 miles.

Air Conditioning Servicing

Car services generally do not include air conditioning systems. A separate service to check and re-gas the air conditioning must be done by a specially trained technician with a mandatory qualification for air conditioning servicing.

How Often Should You Service Your Car?

The frequency of servicing depends on:

  1. Age of Your Car
  2. Make and Model
  3. Usage (e.g., rural roads vs. motorway driving)
  4. Mileage

Consult your car’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendations. Newer cars may also have dashboard service reminders. If unsure, contact the last garage that serviced your car—they may have a record and can set up a reminder for you.

Conclusion

Regular car servicing is an investment in your vehicle’s health, safety, and longevity. It ensures optimal performance, saves you money, and can provide peace of mind with a full service history. Whether for routine maintenance or to prepare for long trips, keeping up with your car’s service schedule is essential for any responsible driver.

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.