5 Reasons Why You Should Service Your Car

Owning a car provides more freedom and convenience but also comes with responsibilities. Standard terms heard in car maintenance are “MOT” and “service”, and they can confuse car owners, especially those new to the road.

So, what is a car service? 

Simply put, the difference between an MOT and a service is the former is a legal obligation that ensures your car meets the safety standards required to be on the road. 

On the other hand, a regular car service is not a legal obligation, but it is recommended to help identify problems before they escalate, ensuring your vehicle operates smoothly, safely, and efficiently. There are also other benefits to a car service.

So, continue reading this blog, which explores the importance of regular car servicing for all car owners.

1. Increase Safety

Your safety on the road should always be a priority, and regular car servicing plays a pivotal role in ensuring just that.

Below are just a few reasons why car services are paramount for safety.

Identify Problems 

Car components wear down over time, regardless of whether the vehicle is new or used, and minor issues can escalate into significant safety hazards without proper maintenance. 

During a routine service, technicians inspect your vehicle, detecting potential problems before they worsen. This proactive approach can prevent breakdowns or accidents caused by unexpected failures.

Essential Checks

A service will consist of several essential checks, such as ones involving brakes and suspension.

Your brakes and suspension are vital for safe handling and stopping. These critical systems undergo thorough examination and adjustments as needed during a service. 

Catching brake or suspension issues early can prevent dangerous situations.

When Mileage Increases

Wear and tear becomes more pronounced as your car travels more miles, at which point, regular servicing becomes increasingly essential to maintain the integrity of your vehicle. 

Young drivers and first-time car buyers, in particular, may not be aware of their vehicle’s wear patterns and maintenance needs. 

Ultimately, a professional service ensures that your car remains roadworthy, regardless of age or mileage.

We will address how often you should get your car serviced later in the blog.

2. Maintain Car Value

Your car is an investment, and you should treat it as such. Regular car servicing is essential to preserving and increasing resale value. Here’s why.

Proof of Regular Service History Adds Value

Potential buyers are often wary of purchasing used cars with uncertain pasts. A vehicle with a complete service history instils confidence and enhances its market value. 

When you can provide proof of regular maintenance, you demonstrate that your car has been well cared for, making it more appealing to buyers. 

Equally, when selling your car, a well-maintained vehicle offers a smoother ride, better performance, and a higher value.

3. Save Money

Regular car servicing should not be seen as an unnecessary expense; it’s an investment that can save you substantial money in the future.

Below are some reasons why car services are financially beneficial.

Detects Problems Early

As mentioned, when issues are identified early during a service, they can be resolved before they become expensive problems. 

For example, engine oil is a simple check during a service, but if ignored, it can lead to severe engine damage, resulting in significant repair charges. 

Regular maintenance ensures that your engine stays optimised, avoiding costly expenses in the future.

Decrease the Chance of Costly Breakdowns

A well-maintained car is a reliable car. Regular servicing significantly reduces the risk of unexpected breakdowns, sparing you the expense of emergency repairs or towing fees. 

Addressing potential problems before your vehicle breaks down saves money and ensures your peace of mind on the road.

How much is it to service a car?

The cost of a full car service will depend on your vehicle. 

At the time of writing, it costs between £170-£210 for a small car and £400+ for a large one. However, many factors can impact the price, such as age, mileage, time of year, make and model of the car and various other factors, so the above figures are guidelines only. A full service for your vehicle may cost more or less.

4. Maximise Engine’s Performance

Your car’s engine is crucial, and regular servicing is vital for optimal functionality. Here’s how a car service maximises a vehicle’s performance. 

Saves Money on Fuel

A well-maintained engine operates efficiently, ensuring that fuel burns at the correct rate. So, when your engine works as it should, it uses fuel more economically, saving you money. 

Regular service checks like replacing air filters contribute to fuel efficiency, giving you more miles for the same amount of money.

There are various other fuel-saving tips to consider, such as using the right motor oil and not using the air conditioner.

Smoother Running Vehicle

Have you ever noticed your car running rough or struggling to accelerate? These issues can often be traced back to engine problems. 

Regular servicing includes checks and adjustments that keep your engine running effectively. A well-maintained engine not only enhances your driving experience with smoother acceleration and reduced vibrations but also prolongs the overall lifespan of your vehicle.

5. Increase Car’s Longevity

Your car ages better by addressing issues early, ensuring proper lubrication, and replacing worn-out parts. This proactive approach means your vehicle stays on the road longer, reducing the frequency of major breakdowns and the need for premature replacements. 

The result? You get more mileage from your investment, saving substantial money you’d otherwise spend on purchasing a new vehicle.

Understanding the significance of regular car servicing enables you to make choices that enhance your driving experience today and secure your car’s future.

How often should you service your car?

Whilst not a legal requirement, it is recommended you service your car annually or every 12,000 miles. However, be aware that how you drive your vehicle and its make and model will impact how often you should get a service.

If you’re wondering, ‘How long does it take to service a car?’, it usually takes three hours.

So, now that you’ve unlocked the secrets to a smoother, safer, and more cost-effective driving experience, it’s time to take action. Ensure your car’s health and longevity by scheduling that crucial regular service.

However, servicing your car is not the only way to help it run smoothly and cut down on costs. By checking your car’s MOT history, you can avoid unexpected repair costs and make informed decisions about your car going forward. 

Equally, other checks, such as car tax checks, help you establish how much a vehicle will cost overall, enabling you to budget effectively. 

Contact Reg Car Check today and see how our car checks can help you with your vehicle.