Getting your car serviced may be a hassle, but it can prolong the life of the vehicle and improve its efficiency or performance.
A car service involves a variety of checks depending on the type you choose, but a garage will always pay special attention to the engine oil, brakes, tyres and steering.
In this article
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Engine oil and filter change
Renewing the engine oil is one of the most important parts of a car service. The oil lubricates the moving parts of the engine and keeps it running smoothly.
The oil becomes less effective over time, so regular changes will keep your engine performing at its best.
A new oil filter is fitted with each oil change. This keeps contaminants and impurities at bay and allows the oil to flow freely around your engine, reducing friction.
Brakes
It's not easy to inspect the brakes on your car, so it's important to get them checked regularly as part of a service.
If your brakes haven't been checked in a while, you could experience:
- Screeching noises when you brake.
- Car pulls to one side when braking.
- Vibrations when you push on the brake pedal.
These can all be signs that there's a problem with your brake pads, brake callipers or the hydraulic braking system.
Discover more about brake problems and wear.
Tyres
Worn or faulty tyres can put you at serious risk of a crash, MOT failure or even a fine. Again, get them checked regularly as part of a garage service.
If there is an issue with your tyres, it will likely affect your driving experience. For example, even under-inflated tyres can lead to poor handling.
During a service, a garage will check the condition of each tyre's tread depth and side wall, as well the pressure.
Steering
If the steering and suspension are worn, you'll find that your car is difficult to steer, especially at low speeds.
It's a good idea to have all elements of your steering system checked, and thereby avoid costly repairs later down the road.
Car servicing from AA Smart Care
The easy way to book a car service.
- Free vehicle collection and return, subject to availability.
- Servicing at AA approved garages.
- Quick and easy online booking and payment.
- Parts and labour guaranteed for 1 year or up to 12,000 miles.
- Fair, transparent pricing, no hidden extras.
We thoroughly inspect each garage to ensure it fully meets our quality, service and training standards. We then carry out annual audits, as well as spot checks.
Author: The AA