What Does a Full Car Service Include?

Regular car maintenance is essential in keeping your vehicle at its best to drive smoothly and safely. Most drivers know they have to get their car tested every year, but don't really understand what a full car service Preston is, or why it is important. They certainly know what an MOT is but in contrast to an MOT -- which is only a government mandated roadworthiness test --a full car service is an extensive inspection and maintenance set of protocols that is far superior to what an MOT test Preston must undertake.

So what actually happens during a full car service? Why is it important for your car in regard to life, performance and safety? Let's break that all down.

MOT VS CAR SERVICE

Before we clarify what a full car service includes, it is important to know the difference between the MOT and a service.


An MOT is a legal requirement for vehicles over three years, furthermore an MOT is solely safety and monitoring of environmental safety standards. The MOT test Preston will check essential components of the car such as lights, brakes, suspension, exhaust emissions etc, checking the vehicle is in a roadworthy condition.

Meanwhile, a full car service is not a legal obligation, but is certainly advisable (usually every 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first). A full service involves checks, adjustments and replacements that are wider in scope than those in an MOT, and it is also designed to protect the overall health, performance and efficiency of the car.

What is in a full car service?

In general, a full car service Preston is a very detailed inspection and maintenance process, that can generally consist of between 50 to 70 (checks and tasks - depending on the garage and make/model of the vehicle) you can expect a full service to typically cover the following;

1. Engine Checks, Oil Change

Engine oil replacement: Old oil will be drained from the engine and new oil will be added for good lubrication.

Oil filter replacement: old oil particles and contaminants can remain in the oil filter, hence it too must be replaced to prevent any debris from circulating the engine

Air filter replacement: A new filter will improve airflow to the engine and fuel consumption.

Fuel filter check or replace (most common if it is a diesel engine).

2. Fluid Levels and Changes

Coolant levels assessed and topped up or changed where necessary.

Brake fluid: Checked and changed as required if in a degraded state.

Power steering fluid and transmission fluid levels checked and topped up if low.

Windscreen washer fluid topped up. 

3. Brakes

All brake pads, discs and callipers checked for wear.

Operability of the handbrake is checked.

Brake lines and hoses checked for leaks or damage.

4. Tyres and Wheels

Tyre tread depths checked and pressure checked.

Awareness of spare wheel (if included) checked.

Checked for wheel alignment and balancing may be to ensure even treadwear on all tyres.

5. Suspension and Steering

Shock absorbers, suspension struts, and rubber bushings and mounts are checked.

The steering system checked for operational scope and possible wear.

6. Battery and charging system

The battery assessed for volts, condition and operational performance.

The alternator and charging system assessed for operational, and inspected.

7. Lights and Electrical 

Headlights, brake lights, indicators, fog lights and reverse lights checked for operability.

Dashboard warning lights checked and if any are on investigated.

Electrics like horn, windows and mirrors are also checked.

8. Exhaust System

Exhaust system checked for leaks, corrosion, and fastening.

Or emissions tested, although this is usually incorporated into the MOT.

9. Belts and Timing Components

Timing belt and auxiliary belt are checked against wear and recommended replacement intervals.

All pulleys are checked for alignment and condition.

10. Cabin and Interior Checks

Interior lights, and seatbelts are checked.

The cabin air filter may be replaced.

The HVAC system (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system) is checked for operation.

Optional Add-ons, or According to Manufacturer Recommendation

For some full services, there may be additional checks or replacements in accordance to the manufacturer’s recommendations for your vehicle; this may include:

Replacing spark plugs.

Regenerating or looking at the diesel particulate filter.

Changing automatic transmission fluid.

Changing the timing belt (if serviced in accordance to mileage).

Why is a full car service recommended? 

1. Preventative Maintenance

Regular servicing can highlight possible problems well before any major issues, saving you money, problems and time!

2. Performance and Fuel Economy

A well-maintained engine will run more smoothly and efficiently, consuming less fuel and emitting less emissions. 

3. Safety

Servicing ensures that your brakes, tyres, steering, and so on are all functioning properly, reducing the chance of having a serious accident.

4. Resale Value

Having a complete and full service history is attractive to potential purchasers. It is evidence that the vehicle has been cared for and creates an increased resale amount. 

5. Works with Your MOT

Your MOT checks your vehicle meets the minimum legal safety requirements, but does not involve any maintenance. When you have your MOT done with a full service, you can be confident your car is both legally compliant, and mechanically sound. 

When should I get a full service? 

Typically, it is recommended to have a full service at least once a year or every 12,000 miles, whichever comes soonest. For some people with high mileage, some garages may provide interim services, every 6 months, or every 6,000 miles, to keep things under control, without the need for a full service. 

Conclusion

Understanding what a full car service Preston includes before you have one will help familiarize you with not only what you are paying for but also why full service is an investment in the future of your vehicle. While an MOT allows your vehicle to be legally on the road for a year, a full car service will enable your vehicle to work reliably, independently and safely. It's very tempting to put off a service to save money now but regrettably those savings can often cost you much more further down the road.

So, when your MOT test Preston is due, why not think about coupling this with a full car service as a proactive way to safeguard yours and your passengers performance and safety whilst knowing you have peace of mind.

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