Factors affecting how often to service your car.

Car servicing frequency is primarily influenced by your car’s age, driving habits, and specific manufacturer recommendations. Generally, newer cars with advanced features may have longer service intervals, while older vehicles or those used for short trips or towing may require more frequent servicing. Consulting your vehicle’s manufacturers logbook or an Autobahn Service Manager is crucial for determining the most appropriate service schedule for your specific car.

General rule;

Industry-standard recommendations for car servicing can vary, but a general rule of thumb is to service your car every 5,000 to 15,000 kilometres. However, this can depend on different factors, including manufacturers recommendation, car age and driving habits – see ‘Factors Affecting Service Frequency’ below.

Factors Affecting Service Frequency:

Vehicle Age:

Newer cars often have longer service intervals due to better engineering and components, while older vehicles may require more frequent servicing to maintain their performance.

Driving Habits:

Short trips can lead to quicker wear and tear, necessitating more regular servicing. Long-distance driving may require less frequent servicing but more attention to components like tires and brakes.

Manufacturer Recommendations:

Each car manufacturer has specific service schedules based on the vehicle’s model and year. Consult your logbook for the recommended service intervals.

Specific Needs:

If you regularly tow vehicles or drive in harsh conditions, you may need more frequent servicing to ensure the safety and performance of your car.

Mileage:

While the distance travelled matters, it’s not the only factor. Time and environmental conditions can also contribute to wear and tear, making it important to service your car even if you haven’t reached the recommended mileage.

Specific Components:

Certain components, like tyres, batteries, and wipers, require regular checks and replacements regardless of mileage or time.

Benefits of Servicing your car regularly:

Enhanced Safety

Regular servicing helps identify and fix potential issues before they become serious problems. This includes checking and maintaining critical components such as brakes, tyres, suspension, and steering. Ensuring these parts are in good working condition reduces the risk of accidents and ensures your car handles well in all conditions.

Improved Fuel Efficiency

A well-maintained car operates more efficiently. Regular servicing ensures that critical components are in good condition, improving fuel economy.

Increased Longevity

Just like any other machine, your car needs regular maintenance to stay in good working order. Regular servicing helps prevent wear and tear, extends the life of your vehicle, and ensures it remains reliable. By addressing minor issues before they become major problems, you can keep your car running smoothly for many years.

Higher Resale Value

When selling your car, a well-documented service history can significantly increase its resale value. Prospective buyers are more likely to pay a premium for a vehicle that has been well-maintained and regularly serviced. It gives them confidence that the car has been cared for and is less likely to have hidden issues.

Optimised Performance

Regular servicing ensures that your car’s engine and other mechanical parts operate at their best – smoother acceleration, better handling, and overall improved performance. A well-maintained car is more enjoyable to drive and performs better in various driving conditions.

Some tell-tale signs your car could require servicing:

Keeping an eye on your car’s performance can help you identify when it needs servicing. Look out for:

• Warning Lights – Dashboard warning lights indicate various issues, from low oil pressure to engine problems.
• Unusual Noises – Strange sounds, such as grinding or squealing, can signal problems with brakes, the transmission, or other components.

Drop into any Autobahn service centre and one of our service managers can advise you of the service required and provide a quote.