To be sure that you are taking care of your new car and providing regular maintenance, it is beneficial to understand the basics of a typical car service.
What are the warning signs you should look out for and when should you take your car in for a check-up?
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What can be expected in a first service and second service for a new car?
First Service
When should you get your first service on a new car?
The first service on a new car is typically scheduled at 12 months or up to a specific mileage – between 10,000 to 15,000 miles.
These details vary depending on the manufacturer.
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By GlobalDataWhat is involved?
The first service for a new car typically involves an oil and filter change, as well as air filter change if necessary.
As the car is relatively new, not much needs to be done except some basic procedures.
The first service is generally not as expensive.
Second Service
When should you get your second service on a new car?
Similarly to the first service, the second service is done within another 12 month or until a certain mileage is reached.
What is involved?
The same checks will be carried out: oil and filter change.
Visual inspection will also be conducted, which include: tyres, brakes, lights, bulbs, wipers, levels of coolant, etc.
Warning signs that your need to service your car:
Warning lights on the dashboard
This is the most obvious sign that you need to get your car serviced. Depending on the issue, a symbol will appear and tell you which area is not functioning properly. Even if you haven’t noticed any changes in the performance of your car, these indicator lights are there to tell you what needs to be checked.
Strange noises
Another clear indicator that you need to service your car is if you start hearing strange noises. Noises can occur anywhere in the car but if you hear something unusual such as grinding or squealing, it can be your car indicating something is wrong.
Thin brake pads
Checking your brake pads on your own is a simply procedure that involves looking through the spokes of your wheel. Your brake pad should be a quarter of an inch thick.
Ignition issues
With the advancement of technology, driving experience has become smother and easier – a silent ignition is one of these advancements. Splitters, coughs, stutters or whirring when you turn the key is another sign that there is an issue with your car.
Stalls
Sudden stalling and cutting of the engine is a clear sign that you need to take your car to the mechanic. This problem is often caused by faulty spark plugs and clogged fuel filters.
Grinding gears
This area of the car undergoes everyday wear and tear, therefore it is inevitable to get this checked. Parts will need to be replaced and fluids to be refilled.
Car pulling
If you feel that your car is veering to either the left or right when you drive, there could be an issue with the braking system or your tires may be uneven – either way, it needs to be serviced.
What will happen if you don’t get your new car serviced?
Getting your vehicle serviced can be expensive, but the potential cost of damage done to your car is much greater if you neglect maintenance.
Even if the service light in your car isn’t on, it is important to regularly service your vehicle.
New cars can typically last around 30,000 kilometres until it needs to be serviced.
If your service light does come on, you shouldn’t ignore it.
