It’s time for your car's service again - so where do you take your car? The same garage as before - although last time you were worried you were overcharged. Here at BookMyGarage we have 3 garages in Bonnybridge for you to choose from, all rated by other car owners and offering fixed prices for their services. You can compare labour rates too, helpful if you’re thinking of additional car repairs you might need. We display transparent prices for car services, but you might want to consider calling our expert mechanics 03304 00 44 39 for independent and unbiased advice if you think you need a costly repair.
How do you choose a garage for your service?
What is the first thing you do when it’s time to choose a garage for your annual service? Do you just pick up the phone to the garage you’ve been using since you first drove a car - even if it’s miles out of Bonnybridge - because that’s what you’ve always done? Do you ask friends for their recommendations? Or do you compare prices, speed and quality of service, and feedback for all the garages in and around Bonnybridge? While this might seem the most systematic approach, it is also the most time-intensive. But BookMyGarage lets you do just that and book in your service with your chosen garage online at the same time.
When should you get your car serviced?
Not everyone is organised enough to know when an MOT is due, but what about a service? The make, age, mileage and average usage of your car all play a part in this question, but in general your car should undergo a Full Service every 12 months (or 12,000 miles) and a Major Service every two years (or 24,000 miles). Some helpful garages apply a sticker to the driver’s door noting the date when the next service is due, but the best thing is to check the owner’s manual which should detail the service history of the vehicle. When you buy a new car or sell your existing one, it’s important to have that service history filled out so that a potential buyer or dealer can see at a glance that the car’s been properly looked after. High mileage drivers who regularly travel outside Bonnybridge should consider an Interim Service every 6 months (or 6,000 miles).
What are common car problems to look out for?
A common car problem which is worth taking action on fast is a faulty alternator. The alternator is a simple but key part in your car - as well as powering your headlights it gives your battery the power it needs to start the car, so it’s pretty important. There are a few signs to look out for if your alternator is starting to fail, from dimmed headlights when you’re driving around Bonnybridge at night or a light appearing on the dashboard, to a growling sound or unusual smell coming from the engine. If you spot any of these, find a Bonnybridge garage on BookMyGarage and get your car checked out. Prices for a replacement alternator can vary a lot depending on the make and model of your car, but are generally around £200-£300.
What do you need from your garage?
You may live within walking distance of a garage which offers most of the services you need. However, by sticking with the nearest garage in Bonnybridge you could be missing out on a better deal. What if a garage with a collection / drop off service or courtesy car could do the same job at a good price, without the inconvenience of losing your car for the duration of the repair? BookMyGarage allows you to search for local garages which offer this facility, and compare their prices, all in one session.