A car is one of the most important assets you should own. Why? Because in today’s world, we can consider transportation as a modern basic need. Both in rural and urban areas, access to reliable transportation is essential for development. And having personal transportation that offers convenience and independence enhances a person’s way of life. So, owning a car is really a game-changer but in doing so, there’s an accompanying responsibility for its maintenance. That is where car servicing is necessary.
Car service is the routine maintenance work done on your car to ensure that it operates efficiently, reliably, and safely. Depending on your vehicle’s condition, the service can range from regular checkups to more extensive repairs. You can try car service Melbourne as a provider. But how often should you take your vehicle in for a service? Of course, the car’s model and usage are important factors to consider but there are general guidelines to observe when it comes to car servicing.
Follow the Manufacturer’s Recommendations
Every car has its owner’s manual where recommendations for servicing time can be found. The servicing intervals are typically based on mileage or time, whichever comes first: Basic service every 6 months or 5,000-7,500 miles, full service annually or every 12,000-15,000 miles, or major service every 2-3 years or 24,000-30,000 miles.
Consider Your Driving Habits
Heavy use or tough environmental conditions need more frequent servicing for your car. These situations happen when you drive in stop-and-go traffic, frequently tow heavy loads, or navigate extreme temperatures. Air filters can wear down faster in dusty or muddy environments. On the other hand, if the car is not frequently or primarily driven on smooth highways, servicing intervals may take a little longer. However, even with this condition, oil and fluids degrade over time and need replacement regularly.
Watch for Warning Signs
If your car shows signs that need attention, don’t wait for the scheduled servicing anymore because ignoring these signs might lead to bigger issues and more expensive solutions later. What are these warning signs? If you see warning lights on the dashboard, hear strange noises like grinding or squealing, notice reduced efficiency or poor performance, observe unusual vibrations or pulling when driving, or detect leaking fluids underneath the vehicle, then have your car checked and be subjected to appropriate servicing or repair.
Don’t Skip Regular Maintenance
Some parts of the car actually need regular checking regardless of the service schedule. They are: change oil every 5,000-7,500 miles (or as specified), tire pressure checked monthly and rotated every 6,000-8,000 miles, brake annually inspected or if you notice reduced performance, and coolant and transmission fluid top up and flushed as per the manual.
Following the regular servicing of your car means keeping your car in top shape. In this condition, you will enjoy the top benefits of enhanced safety, improved fuel economy, longer lifespan, and higher resale value for your car. Set reminders for yourself in your calendar or use car maintenance apps to avoid forgetting important dates for your car service.