How Often Should I Service My Car?

It's one of the most-searched car questions in the UK, and the honest answer is: it depends on your car, but for most drivers it's once a year or at the mileage your manufacturer sets, whichever comes first.

Below we answer the questions we hear most at our workshop in Bishop's Waltham.

How often does a car need a service?

Most manufacturers set a service interval based on time and mileage, for example every 12 months or 9,000 miles. You'll find yours in the handbook or service book, and many modern cars also show a countdown on the dashboard.

Time matters as well as miles. Even if you only do 3,000 miles a year, engine oil still breaks down, brake fluid absorbs moisture and rubber parts age. A car that's barely driven still needs its annual service.

What's the difference between an interim, full and major service?

• Interim service. An oil and filter change plus a safety check of tyres, brakes, lights, fluids and wipers. Good for higher-mileage drivers who hit their mileage limit before the 12 months are up.

• Full service. Everything in an interim service, plus a more thorough inspection and replacement of parts like air and cabin filters where the schedule calls for it. This is the yearly service most cars need.

• Major service. A full service plus longer-interval items, which might include spark plugs, fuel filter, brake fluid, coolant or auxiliary belts depending on the car and its age.

At AR Autos we follow the manufacturer's schedule for your exact model, so you get what your car actually needs. Nothing is added just to pad out the bill.

Is an MOT the same as a service?

No, and it's a common mix-up. An MOT is a legal check that your car meets minimum road-safety and emissions standards on the day of the test. It doesn't include an oil change, new filters or any maintenance.

A service is preventative maintenance that keeps your car healthy and reliable. Many customers book both together to save a trip, and we're happy to do that.

What happens if I don't service my car?

Skipping a service rarely causes a problem straight away, which is why it's tempting. Over time, though:

• Old oil loses its ability to protect the engine, which speeds up wear on turbochargers, timing chains and bearings.

• Small faults like a weeping seal or a worn brake pad go unnoticed until they become bigger and more expensive.

• Gaps in the service history can reduce your car's resale value.

• On newer cars, missed services can cause problems with warranty claims.

Can I go over my service interval?

A few hundred miles won't do lasting harm, but it's best not to make a habit of it. Turbocharged engines like those in Abarths and many Alfa Romeos are especially sensitive to oil condition. If you're overdue, book in as soon as you can.

How long does a car service take?

An interim service usually takes a couple of hours and a full or major service can take most of a day. We offer free local collection and delivery and courtesy cars, so you don't have to sit and wait.

Does it matter where I get my car serviced?

You don't have to use a main dealer. A good independent garage with the right diagnostic equipment and parts can service your car to the same standard. See our guide, Will Servicing at an Independent Garage Void My Warranty?, for the full details.

Book your service with AR Autos. Our team has more than 30 years of combined main-dealer experience. We service all makes and specialise in Alfa Romeo and Abarth, at sensible independent prices. Call 01489 328405 or contact us to book.