What Does a Full Service Include? (And Why You Need to Book One Right Now)

As part of the regular maintenance of your car, it can be helpful to know exactly which checks are included in a full service.

A full service is more extensive than an interim service, with a major service being the most comprehensive check of the three.

The process of contacting garages, comparing quotes and inspecting service schedules can easily become frustrating and time-consuming.

That’s why we’ve put together this handy guide which can tell you everything you need to know about a standard full car service checklist - as you shouldn't put off booking one.

What Does a Full Service Include?

The checks included in a full service can vary from garage to garage.

This can make it hard to visualise whether or not you are actually getting a good deal.

BookMyGarage can simplify the process for you.

All of the garages listed on our site price their car services against our industry-standard service schedule, meaning you always compare prices ‘like-for-like’.

With thousands of independent and franchised garages to choose from on our online comparison site, you are sure to find an excellent deal on the right garage for you - and you can book a car service for anywhere from £115 to around £300.

In the tables below, you will find an exhaustive list of every check included in a full car service at BookMyGarage..

Parts Included

• Engine Oil
• Oil Filter
• Air Filter

Top-ups Included

• Windscreen Additive
• Coolant
• Brake Fluid
• Power Steering Fluid
• AdBlue (Diesel engines only - extra cost if needed)

General Checks

• External Lights
• Instrument Warning Lights
• Horn Operation

Internal / Vision

• Operation and Condition of Windscreen Wipers and Washers
• Pollen Filter Condition and Advise If Replacement Needed (Extra Cost)
• Windscreen for Cracks and Chips
• External and Internal Mirror Condition
• Number Plate Condition
• Seat Belt Operation

Engine

• General Oil Leaks and Advice
• Antifreeze Strength and Advise If Replacement Needed (Extra Cost)
• Radiator and Coolant Hoses Condition and Leaks (Including Header Tank)
• Auxiliary Drive Belts (NOT Timing Belt) Condition and Tension
• Fuel System and Tank (If Visible)
• Timing Belt Replacement Intervals and Advise

Brakes

• Brake Fluid Condition and Advise If Replacement Needed (Extra Cost)
• Visual Check of Brake Pads for Wear
• Visual Check of Brake Discs for Wear
• All Visible Brake Pipes and Hoses
• Hand Brake Operation
• Brake Calipers for Leaks and Security

Wheels and Tyres

• Tyre Condition and Tyre Depths
• Tyre Pressure and Adjust

Steering and Suspension

• Road Springs
• Steering/Suspension Components
• Steering Rack Gaiters Condition
• Shock Absorber Condition
• Wheel Bearings

Exhaust

• Exhaust Smoke (Diesel)
• Exhaust Condition and Advise

Drive System

• Check Drive Shaft Gaiters for Security and Report Leaks
• Clutch Fluid Level (If Applicable)
• Transmission Oil Leaks

Final Checks

• Reset Vehicle Service Light Where Applicable
• Stamp Printout of BookMyGarage Service Schedule

Why Should I Book a Full Car Service?

Booking a full car service is more than just an aspect of routine maintenance.

It is an investment in the safety and longevity of your vehicle.

Regular servicing can reduce the likelihood of potential breakdowns and identify issues before they escalate into costly repairs.

What's more, a well-maintained car is more fuel-efficient, saving you money in the long run.

Not to mention that there are several other key benefits to booking a full car service regularly.

You Can Prevent Expensive Breakdowns

Whilst gradual wear and tear is to be expected, a car service can help you to reduce the impact and damage that this can cause.

Driving with a dirty or clogged oil filter can reduce the lubrication in your engine.

If these parts run dry, the friction caused can lead to overheating which can in turn damage the metal.

Fresh oil and a new oil filter may not be too costly, but replacing the pistons can cost several hundred pounds.

Regular car servicing gives you the chance to spot potential issues early on, helping you to avoid additional repair and replacement costs. 

Not to mention that you'll be less likely to break down.

Your Vehicle Can Have a Full Service History

Car depreciation is an inevitability, but regular maintenance can limit its impact.

Having an incomplete service history can signficantly reduce your car's value.

Potential buyers want to know that the car they are purchasing is in good condition.

When you regularly service your car, you can give buyers the reassurance that your vehicle is worth investing in.

By keeping a detailed maintenance record, you can provide a buyer with a full service history.

This is also a plus when it comes to insurance.

If you have an accident, your insurer may look at your car’s service history to gauge the vehicle’s pre-accident value.

A full service history can help you to improve this valuation figure.

You Can Enjoy Decreased Fuel Costs

The money you save by neglecting to book a car service can actually end up costing you more in the long run.

When every component is working as it should, the engine will be under less strain, and depending on your driving style, you will likely use less fuel as a result.

Choose the right garage to perform your car service, and experience quality car care today.

Have an EV? Then you can book an electric car service, instead, for around £100 to £200.

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