SERVICE PRICING

But while getting a service may sound like a hassle, especially for inexperienced drivers who aren’t well-versed in car ownership, it doesn’t have to be. We have put together a guide to everything you need to know about car servicing.

SPECIFIC MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES

A motor vehicle service is a series of specific maintenance procedures conducted at a set time interval or after the vehicle has travelled a certain distance. The service intervals are specified by the vehicle manufacturer in a service schedule and some modern cars display the due date for the next service electronically on the instrument panel.

• Engine lights
  A lit up engine light is a sign that the electronic control system has run into a problem that needs immediate attention.
• Brake
  Manually test your brakes and see if there is a spongy feeling or if it takes more pressure to apply the brakes than normal. Listen for any strange screeching sounds.
• Tyres
  Check if the tyre pressure light is “on” and inspect if the pressure is in a normal range. Visually investigate for a possibility of tyre holes.

• Lights
  Test for broken lights including the headlights, rear, parking, brake, and indicator lights.
• Wipers
  Check wiper blades for any signs of wear and tear and replace them if necessary.

• Engine oil
  Check the difference between the “low” and “full” markings using a dipstick. Replenish the engine oil if below these markings.
• Engine oil and filter
  Change engine oil and the filter as it accumulates tiny bits of metal, dirt, and carbon over time that can cause excessive wear on the engine.
• Coolant
  Verify the level at the reservoir and fill up the coolant up to normal level.
• Windshield wiper fluid
  Go through the level and top off if needed.
• Automatic transmission fluid
  Check the level of transmission fluid. If it is low, then add the appropriate transmission fluid.
• Power steering fluid
  Inspect the system for leaks, especially if topping off becomes frequent.
• Engine air filter
  Replace the air filter if it is dirty, full of debris, or has discolorations.
• Battery
  Check the battery is mounted securely and free from corrosion.

• Belts
  Replace V-belts and serpentine belts if frayed or worn.
• Hoses
  Check if hoses are brittle, have leaks, or cracks, and then replace accordingly.
• Exhaust
  Listen to exhaust systems for strange noises. Check for leaks or damage.
• Tyre treads
  Replace the tyre if the tyre tread depth is 1.6mm or less.
• Chassis, steering, and suspension systems
  Lubricate these parts as needed.
• Brake systems
  Inspect the whole system including brake fluid, brake linings, rotors, and pads.
• Spark plugs
  Look for worn out plugs and replace them if necessary.
• Timing belt
  Replace the timing belt if there are signs of wear and tear.
• Shocks and struts
  Check if there is a decrease in smoothness or loss of control when driving.