Whether you’re a new driver or are managing your car for the first time, we can be almost sure that an annual service is a responsibility you’re aware of. But what is a car service? What does it include? And what happens if you fail to service your vehicle? As a reputable BMW service centre in Milton Keynes, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to answer all of your questions.
What Is A Car Service? And Why Do You Need It?
Having spent over 10 years specialising in German vehicles, our team of experts are dedicated to delivering exceptional service and thorough care for a diverse range of models. We aim to ensure that all our clients feel confident in maintaining their vehicles and understand their obligations as drivers, starting with an annual service.
- What Is A Full Car Service?
- How Often Should I Service My Car?
- Is It Illegal Not To Service Your Car?
- What Does A Car Service Include?
- How Long Does It Take To Service A Car?
- How To Check Car Service History
What Is A Full Car Service?
A full car service is a voluntary visit to the garage to assess your vehicle thoroughly. Unlike the legal focus of an MOT, this inspection contains a broad check of the car’s overall condition, paying close attention to areas such as wear and tear, brake functionality, and oil levels.
The skilled technicians at our BMW service centre in Milton Keynes not only identify potential issues but also provide necessary repairs and may suggest replacements for other components to enhance the overall performance and longevity of your vehicle.
This proactive approach to maintenance can prove beneficial in the long run, potentially increasing the resale value of your car. By addressing and rectifying issues before they get worse, a complete service ensures your vehicle’s smooth operation and contributes to its market appeal.
Additionally, the expert recommendations provided by our specialists during the service can guide you in making informed decisions about necessary repairs and replacements, ultimately saving you from more extensive and costly issues down the road!
How Often Should I Service My Car?
Nearly all modern cars come equipped with a service indicator that serves as a helpful reminder for your upcoming maintenance check. This indicator considers both the time and the mileage since your last service, offering a convenient way to determine when your vehicle is due for its next checkup. For specific guidance, refer to your car’s handbook, which provides comprehensive details about the recommended service schedule.
Manufacturers typically advise scheduling a service every 10,000 to 20,000 miles, a range that can vary depending on the type of car you own. This accounts for the wear and tear your vehicle experiences during regular use. Our experts recommend you get a full service either after 12 months or once you’ve covered around 12,000 miles.
It is important to note that over time, various components of your car may undergo stress and wear, potentially leading to performance issues if not addressed promptly. Adhering to the suggested service intervals not only ensures the continued best functioning of your vehicle but also helps to prevent potential difficulties that may arise from overlooking routine maintenance.
With this in mind, if you are due a BMW, Rolls Royce or Porsche service in Milton Keynes, please do not hesitate to contact our team. We can book your vehicle into our workshop at a time and date that is convenient for you.
Is It Illegal Not To Service Your Car?
Unlike an MOT, getting your car serviced is not a legal requirement; it’s entirely optional. While an MOT ensures that your vehicle meets specific safety and environmental standards, a car service provides a more overall examination, addressing smaller wear and tear issues rather than legal requirements.
Ensuring that your car is running smoothly and as it should be is crucial. Even seemingly minor issues identified during a service can potentially escalate into more significant problems if left unattended. While an MOT is centred around legal compliance, a car service is more about proactive maintenance and preventing future complications.
The experts at our BMW service centre in Milton Keynes emphasise the importance of regular servicing. Their recommendation is rooted in the understanding that investing in a full-service today can save you from spending unnecessary money on major repairs in the future.
By staying ahead of potential issues and addressing them quickly, you ensure your vehicle’s longevity and contribute to your safety on the road. So, consider a visit to our service centre to get your car fully serviced and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a well-maintained vehicle.
What Does A Car Service Include?
The features included in a full car service can vary based on the specific garage you choose, as different service providers may offer slightly different packages. However, in general, all services typically involve a series of visual and manual checks to ensure the overall health of your vehicle.
Visual inspections often cover a range of aspects, including examining the body and wheels for any damage. Manual checks delve deeper into critical components such as brakes and the gearbox. For electric or hybrid vehicles, specific attention is given to inspecting charging port cables and connections.
Common elements checked during a car service include:
- Engine oil and oil filter: Ensuring proper lubrication for the engine’s smooth operation.
- Lights, tyres, bodywork, and exhausts: Examining external features for functionality and safety.
- Brakes and steering: Checking the braking system and steering components to guarantee optimal performance.
- Fluid and coolant levels: Verifying that essential fluids, such as brake fluid and coolant, are at appropriate levels.
- Suspension: Assessing the suspension system to maintain ride comfort and stability.
- Car battery: Ensuring the battery is in good condition to avoid unexpected breakdowns.
The service typically involves the replacement of certain worn-out parts and fluids. The extent of these replacements depends on the type of service you book, whether it’s a basic check or a more comprehensive one. Regularly scheduled servicing helps to identify and address issues early, preventing potential breakdowns and extending the overall lifespan of your vehicle. It’s recommended to consult with your chosen garage to understand the specific details of the service they provide and to tailor it to your vehicle’s needs.
How Long Does It Take To Service A Car?
When planning for a car service, it’s helpful to ask the chosen garage to provide an idea of how long your car will be in the garage. As a general rule of thumb, a full car service typically takes around three hours.
Certain garages provide a comfortable waiting area where you can stay on-site while the service is underway. This option lets you observe the process firsthand and engage with the service team if you have any questions or concerns. It’s a convenient choice for those who appreciate transparency in the maintenance of their vehicles.
On the other hand, if your schedule is tight or you have other commitments, many garages extend the convenience of a drop-off service. With this option, you can leave your vehicle at the garage for the service, providing the experts with the necessary time to conduct a full check. Later, you can return to pick up your car once the service is completed.
By tailoring our offerings to meet your needs, we aim to make the servicing process as convenient and efficient as possible. When you contact us to book your Porsche, BMW or Mini service in Milton Keynes, we will discuss the options available to find the best fit for your schedule.
How To Check Car Service History
Maintaining a full service history is not just a matter of responsible vehicle ownership; it can also significantly impact the resale value when the time comes to sell. A full-service history acts as a testament to how well the car has been cared for over time, and potential buyers often view it as proof of the vehicle’s overall health and performance.
For those in the market for a used car, checking its service history is a crucial step. A well-documented service history provides valuable insights into the car’s past, revealing the care and attention it has received. Moreover, the absence of a service history or irregularities in it could be red flags, indicating potential unknown issues in the vehicle’s history.
In instances where the car’s service book is available, it serves as a detailed log of all previous services and any repairs carried out. The mileage at the time of each service is recorded, aiding in determining the appropriate intervals for future services.
To verify and access a vehicle’s service history, reaching out to the garage where the car is usually serviced is recommended. Most garages maintain comprehensive records in online databases or paper copies, providing a thorough account of the vehicle’s service history.
If gaps in the service history are noticed after purchasing a used car, attempting to contact the previous owner for missing information is a possible option. In cases where this proves challenging, checking the MOT history online can be an alternative route. By entering the vehicle’s number plate and the 11-digit V5C number from the logbook, you can retrieve MOT testing details, often conducted at the same garage where servicing occurs.
All You Need To Know About Car Servicing
Now that you know all you need to know about car servicing, you should be able to pay us a visit and make sure your car is running as smoothly as possible. Our experts will be able to make sure your car is up to industry standards to enhance your driving experience and car visuals. If you want to understand more about your vehicle, take a look at our previous article or contact us now to book your full car service!