Wondering how often you should service your car? You’re not alone. Many people ask this, and it’s really important to know the answer. Regular car service helps keep your car working properly, saves you money in the long run, and avoids bigger problems down the track.
Why car service is important?
Car service is more than just an oil change. It’s a way to make sure everything in your car is working properly. Things like brakes, engine, fluids, and even your tyres need regular checks. By getting your car serviced regularly, you’re keeping it in great condition, which can prevent unexpected breakdowns or expensive repairs.
If you don’t get your car serviced often enough, small issues can turn into big, costly problems. For example, ignoring worn-out brake pads can damage your rotors, which is a much more expensive fix. So, a regular car service is a smart way to avoid these big issues.
How often should I service my car?
This is the big question, right? How often should you service your car? The answer depends on a few things, like the make and model of your car, how old it is, and how much you drive it.
A general rule of thumb is to service your car every 6 months or every 10,000 kilometres, whichever comes first. But this can vary. If you’re driving an older car, you might need to service it more often. On the other hand, if you have a newer car, the manufacturer might recommend a different schedule, so it’s a good idea to check your car’s manual.
Also, if you’re using your car for short trips around town, or you live somewhere with extreme weather conditions (really hot or really cold – maybe not in Australia), you might need more frequent service. Short trips, where the engine doesn’t have time to fully warm up, can be harder on your car than longer drives.
Signs you need a car service
Even if you’re not quite due for a car service, there are some warning signs to look out for. These signs can let you know it’s time for a service, even if it’s earlier than expected. Keep an eye out for:
– Strange noises: If your car is making odd noises like squealing, grinding, or rattling, that’s a sign something’s not right.
– Warning lights: If a warning light pops up on your dashboard, it’s best to get your car checked out as soon as possible.
– Vibrations: If you feel strange vibrations when driving or braking, that’s another sign you need a car maintenance.
– Strange smells: If your car starts to smell like burning rubber or oil, don’t ignore it. Get your car checked out quickly.
If you notice any of these issues, don’t wait for your next scheduled service. Book your car in for a checkup to avoid bigger problems later on.
Different types of car service
When you book a car service, there are usually a few options depending on what your car needs. You might have heard terms like “minor service” and “major service.” Here’s a quick breakdown of what these mean:
– Minor service: This is your basic car service. It usually involves an oil and filter change, checking and topping up fluids, and checking brakes, tyres, and lights. This type of car maintenance is typically done every 6 months or 10,000 kilometres.
– Major service: A major service goes a bit deeper. It usually includes everything in a minor service, plus extra checks on things like the suspension, gearbox, and steering. A major service is often needed every 12 months or 20,000 kilometres.
Can I skip a car service?
It’s tempting to skip a car service, especially if your car seems to be running fine. But skipping a service can actually cost you more in the long run. Even if your car seems fine, there could be problems that you don’t notice until it’s too late.
Regular car service also helps keep your warranty valid if your car is still under warranty. Most manufacturers require proof of regular servicing to honour their warranty. So, skipping a service could cost you more in repairs if something goes wrong.
**Booking a service with Coastwide Service Centre**
At Coastwide Service Centre on the Gold Coast, we make car service easy. Whether you need a minor or major car service, we’ve got you covered. Our experienced mechanics can check your car from top to bottom, making sure everything is running smoothly.
We offer both general car service at out Molendinar workshop or mobile mechanic services. So, if you can’t bring your car to us, we’ll come to you! That’s one less thing for you to worry about.
We know how important it is to keep your car in good shape, which is why we recommend regular car service. Whether you’re due for a service or think something might be wrong with your car, don’t wait – give us a call and book a car service today. We’re here to help, and our friendly team will make sure your car is working well.
How to know when your next service is due
One of the easiest ways to keep track of when you need a car service is to mark it in your calendar or set a reminder on your phone. You can also check your car’s manual for the manufacturer’s service schedule.
At Coastwide Service Centre, we’re happy to remind you when your next car service is due, so you don’t have to worry about keeping track. Just ask our team when you book a service, and we’ll take care of the rest.
So, how often should you service your car? The general answer is every 6 months or 10,000 kilometres, but this can vary depending on your car and how you drive it. Regular car service helps keep your car working as it should and can save you from expensive repairs down the track.
If you’re on the Gold Coast and need a car service, Coastwide Service Centre is here for you. Whether you need a minor or major service, or even a mobile mechanic, we can sort you out. Book a car service with us today!