What Is Included in a Car Service?

There isn't actually a one-size-fits-all service when it comes to cars and different makes and models will all require slightly different things from a service. You will also find that different providers offer very different services, so it pays to shop around and check exactly what is included before you commit to a service for your vehicle.
 
Each car will have its own service schedule; this can usually be found in your manual or in the document pack you received when you purchased your vehicle. You should stick to this schedule as tightly as possible in order to minimise the chances of anything going wrong with your car.
 
While each car will have different requirements, most providers will offer two main types of service: 'Interim' and 'Full'. Read on for a breakdown of what you can generally expect to find in each of these service packages.

What is an Interim service?

This is really just a basic car service that allows you to say your car has been serviced, and obtain a service stamp in your car's service book. Your vehicle's service clock will also be reset if this is applicable to your particular car. This service includes all the basic parts of a service, so you should expect the following:

• Oil and oil filter to be changed (oil top up if below minimum or replaced if unusable)

• Standard safety checks to be performed

• Some moving parts to be lubricated

The main checks you can expect as part of an interim service will revolve around your vehicle's horn, lights, exhaust, fluid levels and tyres. A mechanic will also conduct a search for any fluid leaks your car might have.

What is a Full service?

A full service covers all the same checks and tasks as the interim service, along with a number of additional checks. In a full service, you can expect things like top ups of anti-freeze and screen-wash if below their minimum requirement, more thorough checking of the brakes, a detailed engine inspection, an inspection of the shock absorbers and wheel bearings, and several more checks and tasks. If applicable, your air conditioning system might also be checked.
 
When you book your vehicle in for a full service, the price you are quoted will generally include all aspects of the service, excluding any parts that need to be replaced as per your car's service schedule. This could include components such as spark plugs and filters. Most providers will either add these items on as chargeable extras or will include them under the umbrella of your service.
 
As a general rule of thumb, you should usually opt for the most comprehensive service you can afford. The more thorough your service, the lower the likelihood of major problems occurring at a later date. In many cases, maintaining your car's recommended service schedule could safe you a great deal of time, hassle and money in the long run, even if it seems like an unnecessary expense at the time. You should never skip a service and should take care to follow your car manufacturer's recommendations as closely as possible.

What servicing options do Protyre offer?

Protyre doesn't use use Interim and Full Service options, but instead opts for a more flexible and better value Gold, Silver and Bronze matrix. Our service packages offers our customers more choice on what checks you can get carried out on your vehicle.

Find out more about each of our service packages, whether you are looking for a quick and affordable check-over, or, a comprehensive and thorough examination, Protyre will meet any requirements. To find out which package suits your needs the most, select an option below for more information: