Regular car servicing is essential to keeping your vehicle in pristine condition. Whether you’re driving a brand-new car or one that’s been on the road for years, routine maintenance ensures safety, reliability, and performance.
But how often should you service your car? Hopefully, this guide will help you understand the ideal service intervals so you can keep your car running smoothly and avoid costly repairs.
What does a usual car service involve?
Car servicing is a crucial aspect of vehicle ownership that involves a series of routine checks and maintenance tasks to ensure your car remains in optimal condition. These services typically include:
- Oil and filter changes
- Brake inspections
- Tyre rotations
- Fluid level checks
- Testing essential systems like the battery and air conditioning
By regularly servicing your car, you can catch potential issues early and maintain its performance, safety, and efficiency.
It’s important to note that while this is the usual scope of a car service, it’s always best to check with your service provider to understand exactly what their service package includes. This way, you know what specific maintenance tasks will be performed on your vehicle, ensuring it receives the care it needs.
Minor Services vs Major Services: What’s the Difference?
There are different types of services your car might require, primarily categorised into minor (or interval) services and major services.
Minor services usually occur more frequently and involve basic maintenance tasks such as oil and filter changes, tyre inspections, and fluid top-ups. These are essential for keeping your car running smoothly between major services.
Major services are more comprehensive and are conducted less frequently. They involve all the checks of a minor service plus additional inspections, such as the braking system, suspension, and timing belt replacement, if necessary.
Manufacturer’s Recommendations
Following the manufacturer’s service schedule is crucial for maintaining your vehicle’s performance, safety, and longevity. These schedules are carefully designed based on the specific needs of each vehicle model, taking into account factors like engine type, driving conditions, and overall vehicle design.
At Škoda Perth, we recommend servicing newer Škoda vehicles every 15,000 kilometres or every twelve months, whichever comes first. This interval is tailored to ensure that your car remains in peak condition, with regular maintenance tasks like oil changes, brake inspections, and system checks being performed as needed. By adhering to this schedule, you can prevent potential issues before they arise, ensuring your Škoda continues to deliver the reliable performance and comfort you expect.
Factors Affecting Service Frequency
While the manufacturer’s recommendations provide a solid foundation for your car’s service schedule, several factors can influence how often you should actually service your vehicle. These factors are unique to your driving style, the environment you drive in, and your car’s condition.
Driving Habits
Short trips and stop-and-go traffic can cause more wear and tear on your engine compared to long highway drives. If you frequently drive in city traffic or only take short journeys, you may need to service your car more often.
Climate and Environment
Driving in dusty conditions, extreme temperatures, or high humidity can affect your vehicle’s components more quickly. If you regularly encounter these conditions, consider servicing your car more frequently to prevent issues like clogged filters or battery strain.
Vehicle Age and Kilometres
Older cars and high-kilometre vehicles typically need more frequent maintenance. As your car ages, components like the timing belt, suspension, and spark plugs require closer attention to ensure continued performance and safety.
Signs That Your Car is Due for a Service
Even with regular servicing, your car may sometimes need attention sooner than scheduled. Here are some common signs that indicate it’s time to book a service:
Warning Lights on the Dashboard
Dashboard warning lights, such as the check engine light or oil pressure warning, should never be ignored. These lights are designed to alert you to potential issues that could affect your car’s performance and safety. If a warning light comes on, it’s essential to have your vehicle checked as soon as possible.
Unusual Noises or Vibrations
Strange noises, such as squealing brakes, rattling under the bonnet, or unusual vibrations while driving, often signal that something isn’t right. These symptoms could indicate worn-out parts, loose components, or other mechanical problems that need immediate attention.
Poor Fuel Economy or Sluggish Performance
If you notice a drop in fuel efficiency or if your car feels sluggish and unresponsive, it could be a sign that your engine or other critical systems aren’t functioning optimally. These issues may result from problems like clogged filters, faulty spark plugs, or low fluid levels, all of which require prompt servicing.
What are the Benefits of Regular Car Servicing?
Improve Safety and Reliability: Regular servicing keeps your vehicle safe and dependable by addressing potential issues before they become serious.
Maintain Performance and Efficiency: Consistent maintenance ensures your car runs smoothly and efficiently.
Preserve Resale Value: A well-maintained car holds its value better, making it more attractive to future buyers.
Prevent Costly Repairs: Regular check-ups reduce the risk of unexpected breakdowns and avoid expensive repair bills.
How to Choose the Right Service Centre
Selecting a reputable service centre is essential for maintaining your vehicle’s quality and performance. Opting for an authorised Škoda service centre like Perth City Škoda ensures that your Škoda receives the best possible care, tailored specifically to its needs.
Benefits of Choosing an Authorised Centre
Professional servicing at an authorised Škoda centre offers several advantages over DIY maintenance or visiting non-authorised mechanics.
Certified technicians are trained to work specifically on Škoda vehicles, ensuring they understand the intricacies of your car’s systems. This expertise leads to more accurate diagnostics and repairs, reducing the risk of errors that could compromise your vehicle’s performance or safety.
Another key benefit of choosing an authorised service centre is the use of genuine Škoda parts. These parts are designed to fit and function perfectly with your vehicle, ensuring longevity and reliability. Non-genuine parts may be cheaper but can lead to issues down the line, potentially voiding warranties and affecting your car’s performance.
Keep Your Škoda in Pristine Condition
Regular car servicing is essential to keep your vehicle running smoothly, safely, and efficiently. By following the manufacturer’s recommendations and paying attention to factors like your driving habits and environment, you can ensure your car remains in top condition. Ignoring warning signs or delaying maintenance can lead to costly repairs and reduced performance.
For the best care, choose a professional and authorised service centre like Škoda Perth City. With expert technicians and genuine parts, you can trust that your vehicle is in the right hands. If you’re looking for a reliable Škoda service in Perth, book your next appointment with us and keep your car performing at its best.
