Although not a legal requirement, it is recommended that all drivers have their car serviced at least once a year or 12000 miles, whichever occurs first. Some insurance policies and warranties make this a mandatory requirement, so it is important to make sure you do this.
Additionally, regular servicing helps maintain a higher resale value, spot minor issues before they become major ones and extend the lifespan of your car. The following are a number of key signs that your car needs servicing.
Your Dashboard Is Warning You
Perhaps the most obvious sign is when your dashboard warning light comes on. In some cars this actually says “SERVICE”, whilst in others it will be a spanner icon. Some will also display the number of miles/days left before it is due.
Note that the spanner symbol may also indicate a specific fault – usually if it comes on in conjunction with another.
Odd Noises
There is a range of different noises that can indicate a problem. This includes hisses, ticking, squeaking and banging. For example, hissing under the bonnet can often indicate an overheating engine.
If you are hearing strange new noises, make a note of the noise and when it happens, and make sure to raise it at your next visit to a mechanic/garage.
Brakes Behaving Badly
If you notice that you are having to press down harder on your brake pedal to stop or the brake pedal feels spongy or squeaks, it could be a sign that your brake pads need changing. This would be a good time to take your car in for a service.
Local Vehicle Experts
If you need a service or MOT Gloucester or the surrounding areas, specialists such as www.123carandcommercial.com/mot-gloucester offer some excellent deals.
Loss in Power or Frequent Stalling
If you notice either of these, it could be that your spark plugs are faulty/worn, or there could be a problem with the fuel injection system or catalytic converter. This is usually fairly simple for a mechanic to diagnose and fix.