Regular vehicle servicing is one of the most important aspects of car ownership. It not only ensures that your vehicle runs smoothly, but it also helps identify potential issues before they become serious and costly problems. Whether you’re a daily commuter, an occasional driver, or clock up high motorway mileage, understanding how often to service your car can save you time, money, and stress in the long run.

At A6 Auto, we often get asked: “How often should I service my car?” The answer can vary depending on your driving habits, vehicle type, and the manufacturer’s recommendations — but the general servicing schedule can be broken down into three categories: interim, full, and major services.

Interim Service

Recommended every 6 months or 6,000 miles – whichever comes first.

An interim service is ideal for drivers who cover a lot of miles in a short amount of time, such as taxi drivers, commuters, or delivery vehicles. It acts as a top-up check between full services to keep everything running safely and efficiently.

An interim service typically includes:

• Oil and oil filter change

• Top-up of essential fluids (brake, coolant, power steering, windscreen washer)

• Inspection of tyres, lights, brakes, and suspension

• Visual check of exhaust and steering systems

• Windscreen wiper and washer check

While this type of service may not involve as many detailed inspections or part replacements, it plays a crucial role in catching wear and tear early and maintaining day-to-day vehicle reliability.

Full Service

Recommended every 12 months or 12,000 miles.

A full service is suitable for most drivers who use their car regularly for commuting, errands, and leisure. It includes everything found in an interim service, plus a more thorough inspection of the vehicle’s major components and more extensive maintenance.

A full service often includes:

• All interim checks

• Air filter replacement

• Fuel filter (diesel) or spark plugs (petrol) as required

• Inspection of the engine, gearbox, clutch, and driveshaft

• Brake fluid and power steering fluid checks

• Detailed inspection of all major mechanical systems

• Checks for leaks and wear to engine belts or hoses

Regular full servicing ensures your car remains in top mechanical condition, retains its value, and operates at peak efficiency.

Major Service

Recommended every 24 months or 24,000 miles.

A major service is the most comprehensive type of scheduled maintenance and is vital for long-term vehicle health. It includes all items from a full service, along with replacement of more time-sensitive components and deeper checks that are not needed as often.

Typically included in a major service:

• All full service items

• Replacement of brake fluid

• Cabin (pollen) filter replacement

• Coolant flush and refill

• Timing belt replacement check (depending on vehicle age and mileage)

• Battery and charging system test

• More detailed inspection of suspension, steering, and braking systems

This level of service helps extend the lifespan of your vehicle, especially as it begins to age or clock up higher mileage.

Why Regular Servicing Matters

Servicing your car on schedule has a range of benefits that go far beyond ticking boxes or maintaining your manufacturer’s warranty:

• Improved safety: Faulty brakes, worn tyres, or fluid leaks can be dangerous if left undetected.

• Greater reliability: Regular checks reduce the risk of unexpected breakdowns.

• Better fuel efficiency: A well-maintained engine runs more economically, saving money on fuel.

• Higher resale value: A complete service history makes your car more attractive to potential buyers.

• Peace of mind: Knowing your car has been professionally inspected gives you confidence every time you drive.