Car servicing frequency can vary depending on the manufacturer’s guidelines.
The frequency becomes higher as a car gets older. And of course, you should maintain your car even if you don’t use it that much anymore.
You can look for a full car service checklist for a guide. Older cars have a definite car service period.
Related:Frequently Asked Questions About Full Auto Repair Service
When Does A Car Need Servicing?
A car needs proper maintenance to run well. People often overlook servicing their cars because of how costly the service has become, and this doesn’t always end well.
A small problem ignored can result in a significant financial loss.
If you see or feel any sign that your car needs to be repaired or checked, don’t hesitate and call your technician.
Follow the warning signs to keep your car in prime condition with our collection of advice on car repairs.
Some of those signs are:
Smoke and Steam
Stop your car if smoke or steam is coming from its hood. It could be a sign that the radiator is overheating.
Check the car’s temperature, and let it cool down. Go to a service center immediately if the temperature reading is higher than normal.
Stop and call for a tow service if the smoke’s blue. Blue smoke equates to burnt oil, and it’s a prime indicator that there’s an oil leak.
It can be a sign of a bigger problem like worn valve seals or piston wear.
Vibrating Brakes
A vibrating brake signals an issue with the brake disc or pad. It can also mean that there might be a problem with your suspension or steering.
Brakes problems can turn lethal if overlooked. Get the car serviced as soon as possible to avoid accidents.
Strange Noises
New and unfamiliar noises tell when something is wrong with the car. If the noise becomes persistent, get the car checked.
Some noises you may encounter include:
- Uneven engine noise: the engine may be misfiring and not working to its best capacity. It often leads to changing the engine’s spark plugs, but it could be something more complex.
- Metal scraping: this sound is never a good sign. Scraping metal means that there is a loose or broken part of the car. This part is colliding with another, damaging both in the process.
- Whining sound: a loose belt usually creates this sound. Belt issues signal a problem with overheating or the battery.
- Loud exhaust: a loud exhaust signals a crack. Exhaust parts could fall off if not taken care of.
- Crunching gear: the gearbox is one of the most used areas of the car. It needs regular parts and fluid maintenance. Gears often go through a lot of wear and tear. A crunching noise when shifting gears indicates a need for service.
Engine Warning Light
The check engine light will appear on the dashboard when the car detects a problem with the engine.
The car needs immediate car service maintenance when this happens since a check engine light can signal a variety of problems.
If ignored, the engine could break down, and it will cost a small fortune to fix.
General Discomfort
Drivers often know how their car feels like when driving.
Any drastic changes in how a car feels may mean that there’s something wrong. If experiencing discomfort while driving, it is wise to have the car serviced.
Usually, we can have a feel of a car problem before it develops into anything serious.
How Long Can A Car Go Without Service?
Many professionals suggest that six months is a reasonable interval for car service.
The longer it goes beyond that, the more the car becomes susceptible to damage. Modern vehicles can run for at least 18,000 miles without service.
A lot of people don’t use their cars often. For those who have their car at the garage most of the time, maintenance should depend on time.
Even if a car is not used a lot, hidden damage could be impacting the car without noticeable signs.
That’s where a car maintenance checklist comes in handy. A car can run without oil for an extended period, but it could destroy an engine if unchecked.
Changing Oil
Advancements with modern lubricants have led to oil changes now happening every 5,000 to 7,500 miles.
If a manufacturer recommends a different mileage, then it is better to stick with that rule.
Most of them recommend an oil change every 12 months, even when the car has little mileage.
Older cars require frequent oil checks. Severe weather changes can also affect oil, so it is best to have it checked before going on a trip.
Newer cars have monitoring systems that state when the car needs an oil change.
Some have more straightforward tools that measure time and mileage. Others have basic analysis tools built-in to the car, often displayed on the dashboard.
New synthetic oils now help maximize fuel economy and reduce friction. It is crucial to maintain proper oil levels to prevent any costly repairs.
Car servicing should be a part of every car owner’s plan, whether they like it or not. It prolongs the life of a vehicle and ensures safety on the road.
The bottom line is, trust your gut and follow the manual. If you feel that there’s something wrong, then there’s definitely something wrong. Learning basic car troubleshooting also pays a lot, too.