How Often Should a Car Be Serviced?

The usual answer is once a year, or every 10,000 to 12,000 miles, whichever you reach first. That is a rule of thumb rather than a rule, because some makers set longer gaps and some engines need more frequent attention, so your handbook has the figure that really applies.

There is no law that says you must service a car, unlike the MOT, which is a legal yearly test once a vehicle is three years old. Servicing is about keeping the engine healthy, spotting wear and keeping your service record in order, and here is how to work out the right timing for your car.

How many miles between services?

Mileage intervals vary quite widely. Older petrol cars were often serviced every 6,000 miles, while many modern petrol and diesel cars have intervals of 10,000 to 12,000 miles or more, and some go further still on certain oils.

Because the figure depends on the vehicle, it is worth reading the service section of the handbook rather than trusting a general number. If you cannot find it, give us the registration and we can help you identify what the maker recommends.

Does a car need servicing every year even if I barely drive it?

Yes, in most cases. Engine oil absorbs moisture and combustion by-products over time, and brake fluid takes in water from the air, so both degrade whether or not the car is used much. Rubber parts and belts also age.

That is why schedules say 12 months or the mileage, whichever comes first. A second car that sits on the drive and only does the school run or the shops is a good example of a car that is easy to forget.

Should I service sooner if I drive in certain conditions?

Some driving puts more strain on a car than others, and many handbooks describe this as severe use. If your car mostly does short trips where the engine never fully warms up, that can leave moisture and fuel in the oil.

Other tougher conditions include regular stop-start traffic, pulling a trailer or heavily loaded journeys, dusty lanes and very hilly routes. In those cases an extra oil and filter change between services is worth asking about. Signs that you should not wait include:

• A warning light or service reminder on the dash
• Oil that is low, dark or gritty on the dipstick
• New noises, smells or a change in how the engine runs
• Heavier fuel use than usual
• Brakes that feel different or pull to one side

What happens if I miss a service?

Nothing happens on the day, which is why it is easy to postpone. Over time, though, old oil and a clogged filter increase wear, and small faults that a service would have caught can grow into larger repairs.

A missed service can also leave gaps in your history. If your car is under manufacturer cover or you plan to sell it, a complete record is useful, so check your paperwork if you are unsure what the terms require.

When is a good time to book a service?

Booking a few weeks ahead of the due date gives you flexibility, and many drivers pair it with the MOT date so both are dealt with together. A service before a long holiday drive or before winter is also a practical choice.

Automaster is a garage at Longcombe Cross near Totnes, and we can service petrol and diesel cars and vans. Tell us the make, model and mileage and we will explain what is due before you commit.