Regular car servicing is one of the most important parts of vehicle ownership. While it isn't a legal requirement in the same way as an MOT, keeping up with your service schedule can help keep your car safe, reliable, efficient, and potentially save you money on costly repairs in the future.
In this guide, we'll explain what car servicing involves, how often you should get your vehicle serviced, and the differences between interim, standard, and major services.
A car service is when a qualified mechanic carries out a series of inspections, tests and adjustments to ensure your vehicle is operating safely and efficiently.
This can include checking brakes, inspecting tyres, topping up fluids, changing filters, and identifying any developing issues before they become major problems.
Unlike an MOT, a car service is not a legal requirement. However, regular servicing is an important part of vehicle maintenance and offers a number of benefits, which include:
When to service your car depends on your vehicle, driving habits, manufacturer recommendations, and the type of service you choose.
As a general rule:
Electric vehicles (EVs) generally require less maintenance than petrol or diesel cars because they have fewer moving parts and don't require engine oil changes.
However, EVs still need regular servicing. Components such as tyres, brakes, suspension, cabin filters, and battery cooling systems still require inspection and maintenance.
Most manufacturers recommend servicing an electric car every 24 months or 18,000 miles.
The main differences between an interim and standard car service are how often they are carried out, and the number of checks included.
An interim car service is designed for drivers who cover high mileage or want extra peace of mind between annual services. Usually recommended every 6 months or 6,000 miles, it focuses on essential maintenance, safety inspections, and fluid top-ups.
An interim service typically includes around 30-40 checks, such as:
A standard car service is a more comprehensive inspection that includes a wider range of safety, maintenance and performance checks to help keep your vehicle running at its best. It is usually recommended every 12 months or 12,000 miles.
A car standard service includes around 60-80 checks, depending on the garage and vehicle. Typical checks include:
A major service is the most comprehensive service available and is typically carried out every 36 months or 37,500 miles.
A major car service includes everything covered in a standard service, along with additional replacement parts and more detailed inspections.
The right service depends on how long it has been - or many miles you've driven - since your last service, as well as your vehicle manufacturer's recommendations and your driving habits. A trusted garage can help advise you.
The time it takes to service a car depends on the type of service and whether any repairs need to be carried out. As a guide:
If your technician identifies any issues that require repair or replacement, they should contact you for approval before carrying out any additional work.
Depending on the repair, the work may be completed during the same visit or booked in for a later date.
Drivers usually get their car serviced at a Main Dealership or at an Independent Garage.
Main dealerships are manufacturer-approved. This means they use genuine parts, have manufacturer-trained technicians, and have the latest diagnostic equipment.
Main dealer servicing can be particularly beneficial for newer vehicles, warranty work, or specialist models.
Servicing is available for Ford cars and vans, along with many other makes and models, at Foray Motor Group dealerships across Dorset, Wiltshire, Somerset and Hampshire.
Independent garages can often offer competitive pricing while still providing high-quality servicing. Many use approved parts and follow manufacturer service schedules.
When choosing where to get your car serviced, consider:
Whilst a car service and MOT serve different purposes, many drivers book their service and MOT together.
This can be useful because a service may pick up and fix issues that could cause an MOT failure. It is also more convenient and may save money.
If your MOT is due soon, booking a service beforehand is a sensible way to prepare your car.
Keeping up with regular servicing is one of the simplest ways to help maintain your vehicle's performance and reliability. It also gives trained technicians the opportunity to spot any issues before they become more costly repairs.
Foray Motor Group offers servicing at most of its dealerships across the South of England. Whether you drive a Ford car or van, or another make or model, servicing is available at locations in Dorset, Wiltshire, Somerset and Hampshire.
To find your nearest dealership, book a service, or learn more about the servicing options available, get in touch with your local Foray Motor Group dealership.
What sort of service should I get for my car?
This depends on your mileage, the age of your vehicle, and when it was last serviced. Most drivers follow an interim, standard, and major service schedule throughout the vehicle's life.
Does it matter where I get my car serviced?
No, you can get your car serviced at a dealership garage or an independent garage. A dealership will offer genuine parts and have manufacturer-trained mechanics, but an independent garage may be cheaper.
Is a main dealer service worth it?
For newer vehicles, specialist models, or cars still under warranty, a main dealer service can offer added peace of mind.
What is included in a standard car service?
A standard service typically includes an oil and filter change, fluid checks, brake inspections, steering and suspension checks, battery testing, pollen filterreplacement, air filter replacement, and numerous additional safety and performance inspections. The exact checklist will vary between service providers.
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