Is my car overdue a service? Signs to look for

The first sign is simple arithmetic. If it has been more than a year since the last service, or you have passed the mileage your handbook gives, the car is due, whatever it feels like. Cars often feel fine until wear has built up.

Other signs can show up before that point. Here are the ones to look for, what you can check yourself, and when to stop driving. The advice applies to manual petrol and diesel cars, and we deal with these at Automaster, a garage at Longcombe Cross near Totnes.

How do I know when my car is due a service?

Look at the service book, the invoice from last time, or the dashboard. Many cars show a service reminder or interval message. Remember that the reminder system may be based on mileage or driving conditions and might not match the calendar, so go by whichever comes first.

If you have no record, treat the car as overdue. A garage can inspect it, replace the routine items and set a new starting date for the next one.

• Twelve months or more since the last service
• Mileage beyond the handbook interval
• A service reminder on the dashboard
• No record of when it was last done

Which warning lights mean something is wrong?

Some lights are reminders and some are urgent. A service spanner symbol is usually just a reminder. The engine management light means the system has stored a fault, which could be minor or could affect the emissions and running of the engine. A flashing engine light is more serious and calls for caution.

The oil pressure light, usually a red oil can, means stop. Switch off as soon as it is safe, because driving without oil pressure can ruin an engine. A red brake or temperature light also means stop, not carry on and hope.

Why does my car sound or feel different?

Old oil and worn filters make an engine work harder. You might notice a rougher idle, hesitation, more engine noise or a rattle on a cold start. Squeals or grinding when braking suggest the pads are worn and need inspection.

Vibration, a pull to one side, or a clunk over bumps can point to suspension or tyre trouble that a service inspection would pick up. Do not wait for the next scheduled visit if something feels wrong.

What can I check safely myself?

With the car on level ground and the engine cold or switched off for a while, check the oil level on the dipstick and the coolant and screen wash levels. Look at the tyres for even wear and legal tread depth, the minimum being 1.6 mm. Check that all your lights work, including brake lights.

Look under the car where it has been parked for drips. If you find a fresh puddle or the oil level is low, have it looked at before long journeys. Do not open the coolant cap on a hot engine, as the system is under pressure.

When should I stop driving and get it checked?

Stop if a red warning light comes on, if the brakes feel soft or the pedal sinks, if steering becomes heavy or loose, if the engine overheats, or if there is a burning smell or smoke. Continuing risks safety and can turn a small repair into a large one.

For anything less urgent, such as a persistent amber light or poorer economy, book a check soon. Fuel use that creeps up and a car that feels flat can both come from neglected maintenance. A garage can diagnose before recommending parts.