Service overview
Scheduled servicing to the manufacturer's plan: oil, filters, and fluid, brake and tyre checks.
Periodic maintenance is servicing carried out at the intervals set by your car's manufacturer: oil and filter changes, checks of fluids, brakes and tyres, and the other items due at that mileage.
It keeps the car running well and catches wear early, before it turns into a breakdown.
- Oil and filter changes
- Fluid, brake and tyre checks
- Servicing to the manufacturer's schedule
On this page
What a periodic service usually includes
The exact items depend on your car, its mileage and the manufacturer's schedule. A typical service can include:
- engine oil and oil filter change
- air filter and cabin air filter check or replacement
- checks of coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid and other fluid levels
- inspection of brake pads, discs and brake lines
- tyre condition, tread and pressure checks
- battery condition check
- inspection of belts, hoses and visible leaks
- other items the schedule lists at that mileage, such as spark plugs or certain fluids
How often should the car be serviced?
Follow the maintenance schedule in your car's owner's manual or service book. It sets the intervals by distance or time, whichever comes first.
Many manufacturers also publish a schedule for severe operating conditions, such as extreme heat, dust, heavy stop-and-go traffic or frequent short trips. Check whether that schedule applies to how and where you drive.
Periodic maintenance or repair?
| Periodic maintenance | Repair | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Keep the car in good condition and catch wear early | Fix a fault that has already appeared |
| When | At scheduled intervals | When a symptom or failure shows up |
| Typical work | Fluids, filters, checks, wear parts | Diagnosing and fixing a specific problem |
What to have ready
- the current mileage and the date of the last service
- the service book or previous service records, if you have them
- any noises, warning lights or changes you have noticed
If the service finds a problem
A routine check may reveal wear or a fault that needs more than maintenance. You're told what was found and what it involves before anything extra is done. Depending on the finding, the next step may be mechanical repair, electrical and air conditioning work, or a deeper inspection and diagnostics visit. Any parts needed can be sourced through spare parts supply.
Frequently asked questions
Does maintenance differ from car to car?
Yes. Engines, gearboxes and manufacturer recommendations differ, so two cars at the same mileage may need different items. The service follows your car's own schedule.
Can I skip a service if the car feels fine?
Much of the wear a service checks for, such as ageing oil, worn brake pads or a weakening battery, builds up without obvious symptoms. Skipping services makes it more likely that a problem is found only after it causes a breakdown.