Regular servicing is one of the best ways to keep your vehicle safe, reliable and running smoothly. But how often does your car actually need to be serviced?

The answer can depend on your vehicle, how you drive it and the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule.

How often should I service my car?

As a general guide, many vehicles should be serviced approximately every 12 months or 10,000–15,000 kilometres, whichever comes first.

However, some newer vehicles have longer service intervals, while some vehicles may need more frequent servicing depending on their age, mileage and driving conditions.

The best place to start is by checking your vehicle manufacturer’s recommended service schedule.

Why is regular servicing important?

Regular servicing allows potential problems to be identified before they become bigger and more expensive repairs.

During a service, your mechanic can check important components and systems such as:

• Engine oil and filters
• Brakes and brake components
• Tyres and tyre condition
• Steering and suspension
• Battery and charging system
• Cooling system
• Belts and hoses
• Lights and electrical components
• Fluid levels and condition
• General engine and vehicle performance

Keeping up with servicing can also help your vehicle remain reliable and may help maintain its resale value.

What happens if I don’t service my car?

Skipping servicing can allow small problems to develop into larger and more expensive issues.

For example, old engine oil can affect engine performance and lubrication, while worn brake components can become a safety concern. Problems with cooling systems, belts, batteries or suspension can also become more serious if they aren’t identified early.

Regular maintenance is generally much easier and less expensive than waiting until something fails.

Does my driving affect how often my car needs servicing?

Yes.

Vehicles that regularly experience short trips, heavy traffic, towing, dusty conditions or lots of stop-start driving can experience more wear than vehicles mainly used for longer open-road journeys.

If your vehicle is used heavily, it’s worth discussing the appropriate servicing schedule with your mechanic.

What about older vehicles?

Older vehicles often benefit from regular servicing and inspections because components naturally wear over time.

A service isn’t just about changing the oil. It’s also an opportunity to identify wear and potential problems with things such as brakes, suspension, steering, cooling systems and other mechanical components.

Catching these issues early can help prevent unexpected breakdowns.

Don’t wait for something to go wrong

One of the biggest mistakes vehicle owners can make is waiting until a warning light comes on or their vehicle develops a noticeable problem before having it checked.

If your car is making an unusual noise, pulling to one side, vibrating, using more fuel than usual, overheating or behaving differently, it’s worth getting it checked.

Early diagnosis can often save you money and help keep your vehicle safe and reliable.

Need a service in Hamilton?

At DriveSmart Automotive, we can help keep your vehicle maintained and running reliably.

Our experienced team can assist with servicing, repairs, diagnostics, brakes, suspension, batteries, cooling systems, exhausts and a range of other automotive services.

If you’re unsure when your vehicle is next due for a service, get in touch with the DriveSmart team and we can help you work out what your vehicle needs.

DriveSmart Automotive – keeping Hamilton moving.