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.

 

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.

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

 

General Checks

• External lights
• Headlights
• Brake lights
• Indicators
• Instrument warning lamps
• Horn

 

Internal / Vision

• Windscreen wipers and washers
• Pollen filter condition*
• Windscreen integrity
• Condition of all mirrors
• Condition of number plate
• Seat belt condition

*Extra cost if replacement pollen filter needed

 

Engine

• Replace oil filter
• Replace air filter
• Report any oil leaks
• Advise on antifreeze strength
• Check radiator and coolant hoses
• Condition and tension of auxiliary drive belts*
• Inspect fuel system and tank (if visible)
• Check timing belt replacement intervals

*Not timing belt

 

Fluid Top-ups (if required)

• Screenwash
• Coolant
• Brake fluid
• Power steering fluid
• AdBlue*

*Diesel only, extra cost for top-up

 

Brakes

• Brake fluid condition*
• Inspect brake pads for wear
• Inspect brake discs for wear
• Visual check all visible brake pipes and hoses
• Check operation of handbrake
• Visual check brake calipers

*Extra charge if replacement needed

 

Wheels & Tyres

• Tyre condition and tread depth
• Check and adjust tyre pressures

 

Steering & Suspension Checks

• Condition of road springs
• Steering and suspension components
• Steering rack gaiters condition
• Shock absorber condition
• Wheel bearings

 

Exhaust

• Visually check exhaust smoke*
• Advise on condition of exhaust

*Diesel vehicles

 

Drive System Checks

• Security of gaiters and report any leaks
• Clutch fluid level*
• Any leaks of transmission oil

*If applicable

 

Following a full service, your chosen garage will fill out a printout of the BookMyGarage service schedule.

In some cases, the garage may stamp your service book or provide their own paperwork with any suggested repairs or other work completed highlighted.

 

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.

 

How Long Does a Full Service Take?

A full service will typically take around 3 hours to complete, but this may vary depending on your vehicle, the garage you choose and whether you need any additional repairs after the service.

However, a car service can get your car running to its full potential in less than a day when you book with a professional garage.

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

 

 

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