How often do cars really need servicing?
Many motorists think that they can save money by not having their cars serviced regularly. But the truth is, delaying a car service can end up costing them more in the long run. But just how often do cars need to be serviced, and what issues arise if the driver delays servicing? This article will answer those questions and explain why you should never skip a car service.
Most manufacturers recommend having a service done every year or after the completion of a certain number of miles. Some cars require a full service after 12,000 miles or 12 months and a minor service at 6,000 miles or 6 months. The type of vehicle, age, and model will also affect when you should book a service. As a general rule of thumb, cars more than five years old should be serviced every 6,000 miles or 6 months, while vehicles younger than this should be serviced annually.
What happens when you delay car servicing?
If you delay a car service, it can cause several different issues, including increased emissions and reduced fuel economy. All cars have a maintenance schedule, and regular servicing is necessary to ensure that all the components are working as they should. As such, if you delay a car service, components may wear out quicker and break down prematurely. Not having your car serviced regularly can also lead to other parts becoming corroded, dirty, clogged or damaged. Plus, not servicing your car regularly can mean expensive repairs in the future, as some components will become harder to replace.
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Get a QuoteThe Reasons Why You Should Never Skip a Car Service
There are some compelling reasons why you should never skip a car service. Regular servicing helps to maintain your car’s performance, meaning it will run better and be more reliable. Because it's necessary to regularly change oil, filters, brake fluid and batteries, having a car service means you can check for any defects or signs of damage before they become major problems. Car servicing also helps to keep your car legal and safe on the road, so you won’t have to worry about breaking the law if the police pull you over.
Is it okay to delay a car service?
No, it's not okay to delay a car service. If you're unable to get your car serviced, then you should at least keep an eye out for any warning signs that something is wrong, such as higher fuel consumption or a decrease in power. Filters might be clogged up, and engine fluid may have deteriorated, and these issues can cause your car to overheat if it isn't checked. Delaying a car service can also mean that any underlying issues that could have been avoided become more expensive to fix.
How Long Can You Drive Your Car With the Check Engine Light On?
If your car is displaying a "check engine" light, then it's best not to drive it until the issue has been fixed. Many people think that the light simply indicates that the car needs to be serviced, but it can actually indicate serious problems. Once you see the check engine light, it’s important to take your vehicle to a mechanic immediately, as the problem can be caused by anything from a loose gas cap to a leaking fuel injector. Diagnostic codes will need to be read to identify the cause of the problem if the light remains on.
With all the potential issues that can arise from delaying a car service, it's essential to make sure you stick to the schedule suggested by the manufacturer. Not only will it help to keep your car running smoothly, but it will also help to avoid costly repairs in the long run. It's also important to listen to your car, and if you suspect any issues, take it in for a service sooner rather than later.
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