How Often Should I Service My Car?

Car servicing is one of the most important parts of vehicle ownership, yet many drivers are unsure about how often a car should be serviced or what exactly is included in a service. Skipping services may save money in the short term, but it often leads to costly repairs, poor performance, and reduced safety. To protect yourself and your vehicle from any risks, make sure to visit your nearest expert car mechanic shop.

This helpful guide will break down car service intervals, the difference between minor and major services, factors that affect how often you should service your car, and why following the right service schedule is crucial for long-term reliability.

Why Regular Car Service Is Important

Your car is a machine made up of thousands of moving parts. With regular use, components wear out, fluids degrade, and filters get clogged. Without proper maintenance, small issues can snowball into big repairs.

Benefits of regular car service include:

Extending the life of your engine and transmission.
Saving money by preventing costly breakdowns.
Improving fuel efficiency.
Enhancing road safety (brakes, tyres, suspension checks).
Maintaining resale value.

If you notice squeaking brakes or warning lights, it’s best to book a quick Brake Repair Service in Adelaide before the problem worsens.

Standard Car Service Intervals

Most manufacturers recommend servicing a car every 10,000 to 15,000 km or every 6 to 12 months, whichever comes first. However, the exact car service interval depends on:

Manufacturer guidelines (check your owner’s manual).
Driving conditions (city stop-start driving requires more frequent servicing).
Car age and mileage.

Rule of thumb:

Minor service – every 6 months or 10,000 km.
Major service – every 12–24 months or 20,000–40,000 km.

Difference Between Minor and Major Car Service

Many drivers ask: “What is included in a car service?” The answer depends on whether it’s a minor or major service.

Minor Car Service (Interim Service)

Recommended every 6 months or 10,000 km.
Includes:

Engine oil and oil filter change.
Basic safety checks (lights, brakes, tyres).
Top-up of fluids (coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer).
Battery and charging system check.

Major Car Service (Full Service)

Recommended every 12 months or 20,000+ km.
Includes everything in a minor service, plus:

Air filter and cabin filter replacement.
Spark plugs (petrol cars).
Fuel filter (diesel cars).
Brake system inspection and fluid replacement.
Transmission and differential fluid check.
Suspension and steering system check.

Factors That Affect Car Service Intervals

Not all cars or drivers are the same. Here are key factors that determine how often you should service your vehicle:

Driving Habits – Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, or heavy towing puts more stress on the engine.
Road Conditions – Dusty roads, stop-and-go traffic, or extreme heat/cold require shorter service intervals.
Car Age – Older cars generally need more frequent servicing.
Manufacturer’s Recommendations – Always follow the carmaker’s schedule for best results.

Signs Your Car Needs Servicing Sooner

Even if you haven’t hit the official mileage or time, your car may give signs it needs a service:

Dashboard warning lights.
Strange noises (squeaking brakes, knocking engine).
Reduced fuel efficiency.
Difficulty starting the engine.
Vibrations while driving.

Ignoring these signs may lead to breakdowns or safety risks.

Consequences of Skipping Car Services

Some car owners delay services to save costs. However, skipping services can cause:

Engine oil sludge can lead to engine failure.
Worn-out brakes and tyres, risking accidents.
Poor resale value due to incomplete service history.
Unexpected breakdowns often cost more than regular service.

Car Service Schedule by Mileage Example

Here’s a typical car service schedule by mileage for most cars (may vary by brand):

Every 10,000 km / 6 months → Oil and filter change, safety checks.
Every 20,000 km / 12 months → Full service (air filters, spark plugs, brake checks).
Every 40,000 km / 2 years → Transmission fluid, coolant, brake fluid replacement.
Every 60,000 km / 3 years → Timing belt check/replacement (depending on car model).

How to Save on Car Servicing

Compare service centres – Look for authorised mechanics or trusted local workshops.
Follow the manual – Don’t get unnecessary extras.
Use genuine parts – Prevents damage and keeps warranty valid.
Book in advance – Many workshops offer discounts for early bookings.

Final Thoughts

So, how often should you service your car? The answer depends on your car’s age, mileage, and driving conditions, but as a general guide:

Minor service every 6 months or 10,000 km.
Major service every 12–24 months or 20,000–40,000 km.

By sticking to a proper car service interval, you not only extend the life of your car but also improve safety, reliability, and resale value.

Remember: Regular servicing is not an expense — it’s an investment in keeping your vehicle running smoothly for years to come.