What You Must Know About Car Servicing

Introduction

Keeping your car in good condition isn’t just about making it look nice – it’s about safety, reliability, and saving money in the long run. Regular servicing helps to spot small issues before they become big, expensive problems, while also keeping your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently. But if you’re a first-time car owner or simply unsure about what’s involved, the world of car servicing can feel confusing. In this guide, we’ll explain how often you should service your car, what a full car service includes, how much a car service costs, and much more.

Whether you’re local and searching for car servicing in Plymouth, or simply looking for trustworthy advice, this article from Motor City Plymouth has you covered.

How Often Should You Service Your Car?

One of the most common questions we hear is: How often should you service your car? The general rule is every 12 months or between 6,000 and 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. This can vary depending on your vehicle’s manufacturer's service schedule, so always check your handbook.

Factors like short journeys, stop-start traffic, and the age of your car can mean that more frequent servicing is a good idea. For example, older vehicles often benefit from additional checks to keep them reliable.

So, do you need to service your car every year? In most cases, yes. Annual servicing helps maintain your warranty and can even be a requirement for some insurance policies. Skipping a service may save money in the short term but risks costly repairs later. Think of it as an investment in your car’s safety and value.

What Does a Full Car Service Include?

If you’re wondering ‘what does a full car service include’, the answer depends on whether you book a minor service or a major service. At Motor City Plymouth, we make it clear what’s covered so you know exactly what you’re paying for.

• Minor Car Service – This typically includes an oil and filter change, top-up of fluids (coolant, brake, power steering, and screen wash), and a detailed inspection of tyres, brakes, lights, and steering. It’s ideal for drivers covering fewer miles but who still want peace of mind.
• Major Car Service – This goes further, adding replacement of key items such as air filters, spark plugs (where needed), and a full brake system inspection. A major service is recommended every two years or as advised by your manufacturer.

At Motor City Plymouth, every service also comes with a video health check for transparency, plus a wash and vacuum, so your car looks as good as it runs. Having a clear car service checklist ensures nothing important is missed.

How Much Is a Car Service?

Understandably, many drivers ask: how much is a car service? Prices vary depending on the type of service, your vehicle make and model, and where you’re based. In the UK, a minor service usually costs between £150–£200, while a major service is often £300 or more.

At Motor City Plymouth, we keep things simple with transparent pricing:

• Minor service from £159
• Major service from £325

This includes labour, parts, and the extras mentioned. While cheaper options exist, professional servicing keeps your vehicle to manufacturer standards – which protects your warranty and resale value.

How Long Does a Car Service Take?

If you’re planning your day around your booking, you’ll want to know: how long does a car service take?

• Minor service – Around 1 to 2 hours
• Major service – Between 3 and 4 hours

At Motor City Plymouth, we recommend booking in advance to secure a convenient slot. Courtesy cars are often available, so you can get on with your day while we take care of your car.

How to Check Car Service History

When buying a used car or keeping your own records up to date, it’s important to know how to check car service history. There are a few ways to do this:

• Service book – Many vehicles still come with a stamped book showing completed services.
• Digital records – Newer cars may have online records held by the manufacturer.
• Garage invoices – Always keep copies of receipts and job sheets.

A complete service history not only proves your car has been well maintained but also boosts its resale value. If you’re unsure, ask your garage to provide documentation after every service.

Conclusion

Regular servicing keeps your car safe, efficient, and reliable – and it’s often cheaper in the long run than skipping checks. From knowing how often you should service your car to understanding what a full car service includes, you can now make confident decisions about your vehicle maintenance.

At Motor City Plymouth, we pride ourselves on transparent pricing, trusted workmanship, and excellent customer service. If your car is due for a service, why not book with us today and enjoy complete peace of mind on the road! Contact us!