Why a Full Service Is Worth It
A full service is your car’s health check. It goes far beyond an MOT and gives your vehicle the attention it needs to stay safe, efficient, and road-ready.
While an MOT checks legal safety standards, a full service focuses on condition, wear, and performance—helping you avoid breakdowns and costly repairs.
How Often Should You Get a Full Service?
Most drivers should book a full service once every 12 months or every 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. Check your vehicle’s manual or digital service indicator for specific guidance.
If you regularly drive in stop-start traffic, tow, or make short trips, your car may benefit from more frequent checks.
What’s Included in a Full Car Service?
A full service typically involves over 70 checks across your vehicle. Here’s what’s usually covered:
Engine and Fluids
- Engine oil and oil filter replacement
- Air filter checked or replaced
- Top-up of coolant, brake fluid, screenwash, and power steering fluid
- Spark plug inspection or replacement (depending on mileage and engine type)
Brakes and Suspension
- Brake pads and discs inspected for wear
- Brake fluid condition checked
- Suspension, shocks, and springs inspected for leaks or damage
- Handbrake tested and adjusted
Tyres and Wheels
- Tyre pressure and tread depth checked
- Spare tyre condition reviewed
- Wheels inspected for damage or uneven wear
Battery and Electrics
- Battery tested for performance and charge
- Headlights, indicators, brake lights, and interior lights checked
- Wipers and washers tested
- Horn and dashboard warning lights reviewed
Safety and Cabin Checks
- Seatbelts checked for damage and operation
- Cabin/pollen filter inspected or changed
- Heating and air con system tested
- Diagnostic scan (at some garages) to check for stored fault codes
Exterior and Body
- Windscreen, mirrors, and wiper blades checked
- Number plates and exterior lights inspected
- Boot, doors, and bonnet lubricated and checked for alignment
What’s Not Always Included?
Some items are considered additional services or are only needed at certain intervals:
- Timing belt replacement
- Fuel filter change (especially for diesel vehicles)
- Aircon system re-gas
- Wheel alignment
- Transmission fluid or gearbox checks
These depend on the age and mileage of your vehicle. Ask your garage if anything specific is due based on your car’s history.
What About Interim Services or MOTs?
An interim service is a smaller version, usually done every 6 months. It focuses on essentials like oil changes, brakes, tyres, and fluid levels.
An MOT, meanwhile, is a legal requirement that only tests roadworthiness and emissions. It won’t top up fluids or check the condition of your filters or brake pads unless there’s a problem.
Think of it like this:
- MOT = Legal minimum check
- Interim = Basic health check
- Full service = Full maintenance and prevention
How Much Does a Full Service Cost?
Prices vary by location and car type, but expect:
- Small cars: around £150–£200
- Family hatchbacks: £200–£250
- Premium or large vehicles: £250+
You can often save by booking an MOT and full service as a bundle at your local garage or national chain.
How to Keep a Record of Your Full Services
A full service is valuable—not just for you, but for future buyers or garages. To keep a record:
- Ask for a stamped receipt or digital invoice
- Write down the date, mileage, and work done
- Store everything in one place
Or better yet—go digital.
Log and Share Your Full Service History with AutoChain
AutoChain makes it easy to:
- Log every full and interim service
- Get AI-powered reminders for upcoming maintenance
- Digitally store all invoices, advisories, and repairs
- Share your car’s full history with garages or future buyers
👉 Register your interest today
🔗 Need help checking your car’s service history? Read our full guide
🔗 Not sure when or how often to book a service? Here’s our interval guide
