Regular car servicing is crucial to keeping your vehicle running smoothly and preventing potential breakdowns. At Alan Watkins Motor Repairs in Swindon, we understand the importance of maintaining your car to ensure it’s safe, reliable, and fuel-efficient. But if you’re wondering what a car service actually includes, let’s break down the key components.

There are generally three types of services offered: interim service, full service, and major service. The level of service your car requires depends on factors such as mileage, vehicle age, and manufacturer recommendations.

1. Interim Service

An interim service is typically recommended every 6 months or 6,000 miles. It focuses on the essentials and helps maintain your vehicle in the short term. Key tasks include:

• Oil and Filter Change: Fresh engine oil ensures your car runs smoothly, reducing wear and tear on engine parts. The oil filter is also replaced to prevent debris from contaminating the oil.
• Fluid Levels Check: The technician will inspect and top up vital fluids such as brake fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, and screen wash.
• Tyre Inspection: The tyres are checked for tread depth, condition, and pressure. Properly inflated and healthy tyres improve safety and fuel efficiency.
• Brake Check: Brake pads, discs, and fluid are inspected for wear and efficiency, ensuring your vehicle can stop effectively.
• Lights, Wipers, and Windscreen Check: Exterior lights and wipers are checked for proper function, and the windscreen is inspected for any cracks or chips.

2. Full Service

A full service, recommended every 12 months or 12,000 miles, offers a more comprehensive inspection. It includes everything in an interim service, plus additional checks and replacements to ensure the longevity of your vehicle. Here's what you can expect:

• Air Filter Replacement: The air filter is changed to maintain efficient engine performance and protect it from contaminants.
• Steering and Suspension Inspection: The steering and suspension systems are checked to ensure a smooth ride and proper handling.
• Fuel Filter (Diesel) or Spark Plug (Petrol) Replacement: Depending on your vehicle type, either the fuel filter (for diesel engines) or the spark plugs (for petrol engines) will be inspected and replaced if necessary.
• Battery Check: The car’s battery is tested to ensure it’s holding charge correctly and is in good condition.
• Exhaust System Check: The exhaust system is inspected for leaks, damage, or excessive emissions.
• Additional Fluid Top-ups: All fluids, including differential oil and gearbox oil, are topped up if necessary.

3. Major Service

A major service is the most comprehensive check, recommended every 24 months or 24,000 miles. It includes all the checks and replacements found in a full service, as well as several additional critical inspections:

• Brake Fluid Replacement: This ensures your braking system remains responsive and safe.
• Transmission Fluid Check/Replacement: If necessary, the transmission fluid is changed to maintain smooth gear shifts.
• Coolant Change: The engine coolant is drained and replaced to keep the engine from overheating and to prevent corrosion.
• Comprehensive System Check: Other systems, like the air conditioning and more complex electronic systems, are inspected for any potential issues.

Why Is Regular Servicing Important?

1. Improved Safety: Regular services help identify any issues with your vehicle’s key systems, keeping you and your passengers safe on the road.

2. Better Performance and Efficiency: Fresh oil, clean filters, and properly maintained components improve your car’s performance and fuel efficiency.

3. Extend Vehicle Life: Servicing prevents wear and tear from developing into larger, more costly problems, helping your car last longer.

4. Maintains Resale Value: A well-serviced car is more attractive to potential buyers and often retains its value better.

At Alan Watkins Motor Repairs, we offer all levels of servicing to ensure your car remains in optimal condition. Whether it’s time for an interim service or a major overhaul, our skilled technicians in Swindon are ready to keep your car running smoothly.

Book your service with us today and enjoy peace of mind on the road!