A car service is a maintenance checkup of your vehicle. The mechanic looks for wear and tear, and replaces worn out parts. It also checks the engine, brakes, cooling system, air conditioning, horn, steering and suspension to make sure everything is functioning properly.

There are several types of service, and you can choose the one that best suits your needs. Most cars have a basic schedule of services, but older models may need more frequent servicing. Car manufacturers publish a service schedule to ensure your car is safe and reliable. You can find this in your owner’s manual. However, you should not rely on this as your guide to vehicle care. Rather, ask for a list of everything needed before your appointment.

The full car service is an all-encompassing service that includes an oil change and other maintenance work. You should have this done at least once a year. Depending on the model of your vehicle, this could involve replacing the brake fluid, air filter, pollen filter and more.

Some drivers don’t take care of their vehicle’s maintenance, putting them at risk for expensive repairs. When your vehicle is in the shop, they’ll be checking for leaks, checking brakes, looking for trouble codes and making adjustments as necessary. This is a smart way to keep your vehicle running smoothly, and save money at the same time.

An interim service is the cheapest of the bunch, and will involve an oil change and other fluids checked. However, it’s not the most comprehensive service you can get.

On the other hand, a major service is more thorough, and it’s usually recommended to be done once or twice a year. Depending on your vehicle, this may include replacing brake pads, wheel bearings, air filters, power steering fluid, spark plugs and more.

Having a service done at regular intervals will help to maintain the longevity of your car. Keeping your car in tip-top shape will also save you money in the long run, as it will use less fuel and be easier to drive. Keeping your car in top condition is the best way to prevent costly repairs, and it’s always a good idea to have a service history on hand.

If you’re concerned about the cost of a service, you can hire it by the hour, or you can make a reservation in advance. Check with your county office to determine which options are available. In some states, you’ll need to provide your driver’s license and a copy of your car’s inspection record before you can have a major service performed.

As with all of your automobile’s maintenance, it’s important to understand the difference between the most important and the most minor tasks. For example, having a new battery won’t necessarily save you money, but it’s a safety precaution that isn’t required by law. Similarly, it’s easy to ignore small issues, but they can lead to larger problems down the road.

Getting your car checked and serviced regularly can keep it running smoothly and help to avoid major repairs, but you should never rely on this as your only car maintenance solution. While you’re there, you’ll also want to check your tyres and other ancillary parts.