Basic Service vs Full Service: Which Do I Choose?
Getting your car serviced is important. It is recommended that your car be serviced every 12,000 miles and 12 months, as this will ensure your car is maintained properly and kept in good condition. At Freeway Exhaust & Tyre Centre, we offer 2 main options for car servicing. We have a basic service and a full service, depending on what your requirements are. Although servicing your car is not a legal requirement, it will ensure your car stays running smoothly and efficiently throughout.
A car service is not a legal requirement, unlike an MOT, which is mandatory for vehicles over three years old to ensure they meet safety and environmental standards. While an MOT focuses on the vehicle's safety and emissions, a car service involves a comprehensive check of various components to ensure the vehicle is running efficiently and to prevent future issues. Regular servicing can improve fuel efficiency, helping car owners save money by reducing fuel consumption and preventing costly repairs. Car owners need to stay proactive with regular maintenance and safety checks to keep their vehicles safe and reliable.
Please read your vehicle handbook for more specific details on your vehicle’s requirements.
Basic Service
We recommend that you get a basic service every 6000 miles or every 6 months, depending on how often you drive your vehicle, whichever comes first (sometimes referred to as an interim car service). This service is also ideal for cars that do lots of short journeys.
A basic car service is a routine check designed for high-mileage drivers every 6 months or 6,000 miles. A basic or interim car service typically includes an oil change, new oil filter, essential fluid top-ups, and inspections of tyres, lights, brakes, and wipers. A basic service typically involves around 35 to 55 individual checks and takes about one hour to complete.
Oil Filter Replacement
An oil filter is extremely important, as it filters the oil that goes around the engine, and a new oil filter is typically installed during a basic or interim car service. Particles, dust and dirt can sometimes make their way into the oil, which is why an oil filter replacement is vital. If this is not changed, then it can cause all sorts of issues.
Oil Change
A regular oil change will make sure that the performance of your vehicle stays at its best. We use clean, quality oil that will ensure your engine is moving and operating as it should. Our high-quality oil includes Valvoline.
Tyre Pressure Check
We also include a tyre pressure check in the basic service, to ensure your tyres are at the right level. We will make sure that your tyres have the correct inflation. Underinflated or overinflated tyres will reduce the lifespan of your tyres, so it’s important to get this checked out.
Full Service
There are three main types of car service: Interim, Full, and Major service, each designed to meet different maintenance needs based on your vehicle's age and mileage. An interim service is typically recommended every 6 months or 6,000 miles and includes a 56-point check focusing on essential components such as brakes, steering, and engine oil, making it a less comprehensive but important maintenance option. A full service is more comprehensive, usually recommended every 12 months or 12,000 miles, and includes a wider range of checks and replacements, such as air filters and brake fluid, in addition to those covered in an interim service. For even more thorough maintenance, a major service is recommended every 24 months or 24,000 miles and includes all checks from a full service, plus additional components and fluids that may need attention due to age or wear.
The full service includes everything in the basic service, as well as a comprehensive check of the whole car:
Air Filter Replacement
The air filter prevents any dirt or particles from making their way into the engine. An air filter replacement will make sure that the filter is clear. This will also prolong the life of your engine as a clear air filter will prevent any damage from dust, dirt and other particles.
Fuel Filter Replacement
Your fuel filter must be changed regularly, as a blocked filter will restrict fuel flow. This can also cause issues with the engine, which will damage the vehicle. A fuel filter replacement will maximise the engine’s performance and prevent any misfires.
Pollen Filter Replacement
Although pollen filters are fairly new to many vehicles, they must be checked. The filter takes pollen and other particles out of the air before it enters your car. This prevents the driver from being affected by pollen, dust or dirt. Although this will not benefit your car, it will benefit the driver of the vehicle and their health.
New Spark Plugs
Spark plugs play an important part when it comes to your car’s motor. The plugs provide the spark that ignites the air and fuel, ensuring your car stays moving. If your spark plugs are not changed during a service.
Light Checks
Our technicians will check to make sure all of your lights are working properly, which includes the front and rear lights, as well as interior lights and dashboard warning lights, during a full service. It is illegal not to have your lights on at night, and in many other scenarios, so your lights must be working. This also applies to your reverse light; if it is not working, then it could cause an accident, as other drivers will not know you are going to reverse.
Brake & Suspension Checks
The braking and suspension system in your car is extremely important and should never be ignored. If your brakes fail, then this could cause a dangerous accident. We will check your brakes and identify any problems if there are any. During a basic car service, we specifically inspect your brake pads for wear and replace them if necessary to maintain brake system safety. Regular checks on critical systems like brakes and tyres significantly reduce the risk of accidents and breakdowns. If your brakes need replacing, then we will also advise on this to ensure your car is as safe to drive as possible.
A comprehensive car service starts from just £140. We would recommend that you allow around 2 hours for your vehicle to be fully serviced and tested, as this will ensure it is done properly. Our car servicing is complete to the highest standard, so that your vehicle can be driven from our centre straight away.
If you have any questions regarding our car service, please call today on 01892 349048 to speak to one of the team!
Is It Time for a Basic Car Service or a Full Service Car?
Choosing between a basic car service and a full car service depends on how you drive, your vehicle’s condition, and how long it’s been since your last service. Most car owners benefit from professional servicing, as they may not have the tools or expertise to perform all necessary checks themselves.
A basic service is ideal if you drive regularly and want to keep your vehicle running efficiently between annual checks. It focuses on essential maintenance such as oil changes, oil filter replacement, and tyre pressure checks, helping to maintain performance and reduce wear over time.
A full car service, however, is far more comprehensive. If you’re wondering what a full car service is, it includes everything in a basic service, alongside additional checks and replacements such as air filters, fuel filters, spark plugs, and brake inspections. This makes it the best option for vehicles that haven’t been serviced recently or that cover higher mileage.
For drivers looking for a reliable car service Tunbridge Wells, choosing the right level of servicing is key to keeping your vehicle safe, efficient, and roadworthy. Whether you opt for a basic car service or a full service car, regular maintenance will help prevent costly repairs and extend the life of your vehicle. Keeping track of your car's service history and scheduling your next service according to manufacturer recommendations or service reminders is essential for proper vehicle maintenance. Having a full service history can increase the resale value of your vehicle, as it demonstrates that the car has been well cared for.
If you’re unsure which option is right for you, it’s always better to act early. A well-timed basic service or full car service can make a significant difference to your car’s long-term performance and reliability.
FAQs
What does a basic car service include?
A basic car service typically includes an engine oil change, oil filter replacement, tyre pressure check, and essential fluid top-ups such as brake fluid and power steering fluid. It also involves inspections of key components like brakes, lights, and wipers to ensure your vehicle remains safe and efficient.
How often should I have my car serviced?
It is recommended to have a basic or interim service every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. A full service is usually advised annually or every 12,000 miles as part of your vehicle's annual servicing schedule to maintain optimum performance and avoid costly repairs.
What is the difference between a car service and an MOT?
A car service is a comprehensive check and maintenance routine aimed at keeping your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently, while an MOT is a legal requirement focusing on safety and emissions compliance for vehicles over three years old. Both are important for vehicle upkeep, but serve different purposes.
How much does a car service cost?
Car service cost can vary depending on the type of service, your vehicle's make and model, and the local garage you choose. Basic services are generally more affordable, while full or major services involve more extensive checks and replacements, increasing the price. It's best to inquire about service prices at your local centre.
Can regular car servicing help avoid costly repairs?
Yes, regular car servicing by highly trained service technicians helps identify minor issues early, preventing them from developing into major problems. This proactive approach not only ensures vehicle safety but also extends the life of your car and improves fuel efficiency, saving you money in the long run.
Written on 18th October 2018