What Does a Full Service Include?

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.

Page Contents

What Does a Full Service Include?
Why Should I Book a Full Car Service?
How Long Does a Full Service Take?
FAQs

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

Condition of windscreen wipers and washers	Pollen filter condition (extra cost if replacement needed)	Windscreen integrity (cracks and chips)
Condition of all mirrors	Number plate condition	Seat belt condition

Engine

Replace oil filter	Replace air filter	Report on any oil leaks	Advise on antifreeze strength
Radiator and coolant hoses for condition and leaks	Condition and tension of auxiliary drive belts (NOT timing belt)	Inspect fuel system + tank (if visible)	Check timing belt replacement intervals and advise

Fluid Top-ups (if required)

Screenwash	Coolant	Brake Fluid
Power Steering Fluid	AdBlue (diesel only; extra cost for top-up)

Brakes

Advise on brake fluid condition and report if replacement needed (extra charge)

Inspect brake pads for wear

Inspect brake discs for wear

Visual check all visible brake pipes and hoses

Check operation of the hand brake

Visual check brake callipers for leaks and security

Wheels & Tyres

Tyre condition and tread depth

Check and adjust tyre pressures

Steering & Suspension Checks

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

Exhaust

Visually check exhaust smoke (diesel)

Advise on the condition of the exhaust

Drive System Checks

Security of gaiters and report any leaks

Clutch fluid level (if applicable)

Any leaks of transmission oil

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.