What's included in a full car servicing, and how much should it cost?

What is usually included in a full car service?

A full car service involves more than just an oil change – it involves inspecting and replacing a range of engine components to keep your vehicle running smoothly. The main components that are included in a full car service are an oil and filter change, dashboard lights tested, brake fluid levels checked, the fuel filter changed, the engine inspected, the spark plugs changed, the brake system checked, the air filter replaced, and other filters such as transmission and pollen filters are also changed. Your car manufacturer will usually recommend specific services based on age and mileage, so make sure to check the manual before booking a service.

It is also advisable to have any minor issues fixed while you have the full car service. Things like tyre pressure, coolant level and battery condition should all be checked and, if needed, topped up or replaced. Having regular services done not only helps to keep your car running efficiently but also helps to maintain its value.

How Much Does A Full Car Service Cost in 2023?

The cost of a full car service can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, such as the make and model of the car and the type of service being performed. Generally speaking, a full car service will cost between £100 and £200, with higher-end vehicles tending to be more expensive due to the complexity of the engine and its components. If you're looking for a lower cost option, then you could opt for a basic service which would typically start from around £50 but will only involve oil, oil filter and air filter changes.

It’s always important to shop around when it comes to cost, and it’s worth considering going to a specialist garage as they may be able to offer better value than a dealership. Many garages will also have discounts and offers on full car services, so it's definitely worth shopping around for the best deal.

How long should a full service take on a car?

Typically, if your car's booked in for a full car service, it could take up to three hours for the whole process to be completed. This can vary depending on the type of service requested and the types of repairs that might need to be carried out. It's important to note that if any parts need to be ordered or if there are any delays in repairs, this time can increase. However, most garages will agree on a time window within which they can work, and they should advise you of this when booking.

How often do I need to have my car serviced?

Most manufacturers recommend having a service every 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. This advice should always be followed, and any manufacturer's requirements should always take precedence over any recommendations from a garage. It’s important to book a service as soon as possible if you reach either of these milestones, as failure to do so can reduce the life span of your car. Furthermore, service is also essential to ensure that your car runs safely and efficiently and that any potential issues are caught and dealt with before they become serious.

What is the disadvantage of not servicing your car?

The biggest disadvantage of not servicing your car is that it can result in a reduction in performance, increased fuel consumption and increased risk of breakdowns. All of these can be costly, as you may incur repair bills, as well as loss of earnings or inconvenience due to having to wait for your car to be repaired.

Furthermore, if you don't service your car regularly, then you will potentially void both your manufacturer and your insurance warranties, meaning that you could be liable to pay for any repair costs should something go wrong. Finally, if you don't have your car serviced regularly, you run the risk of having a mechanical or electrical failure on the road, which can be very dangerous.