Table of Contents
The Two Main Types of Car Service in the UK MOT and Car Service — Understanding the Difference What Happens in a Car Service — Step-by-Step Handy Car Service Checklist Common FAQs About Car Servicing Next Steps After a ServiceKeeping your car in good working order isn’t just about avoiding breakdowns — it’s also about staying safe on the road and protecting your investment. One of the best ways to do that is to have your car serviced regularly. But if you’ve ever booked a service and wondered what happens in a car service, you’re not alone. It’s important to know that a car service is not the same as an MOT. An MOT is a legally required annual test to check that your car meets road safety and environmental standards (have a look at our guide on What Happens if You Drive Without an MOT for more guidance). A service, on the other hand, is about maintaining your car’s health: changing parts, topping up fluids, and carrying out checks to keep it running smoothly. While an MOT is a pass/fail test, a service is more like a health check and tune-up rolled into one. This guide will walk you through the process step by step, explain the difference between service types, and share exactly what your mechanic checks, using plain, everyday language. You’ll also get a handy checklist, answers to common questions, and tips on what to do next.
The Two Main Types of Car Service in the UK
Interim Service
- Typically done every 6 months or around 6,000 miles (whichever comes first).
- Designed to check the essentials and spot any issues before they become costly problems.
- Common for high-mileage drivers or those who use their cars daily.
Full (Annual) Service
- Usually carried out every 12 months or 12,000 miles (whichever comes first).
- Includes everything from an interim service, plus a much more in-depth inspection of your car’s systems.
- Ideal for ensuring the vehicle is in peak condition and identifying wear-and-tear parts that might need replacing soon.
MOT and Car Service — Understanding the Difference
Because MOTs and services often happen around the same time of year, it’s easy to mix them up, but they serve very different purposes:MOT:
- Legal requirement for most cars over three years old. You can check the MOT status of your vehicle here.
- Checks that your car is safe and roadworthy at the time of the test.
- Pass or fail outcome, with advisory notes if something will need attention soon.
- No repairs are carried out as part of the test (repairs happen separately).
Service:
- Not a legal requirement, but strongly recommended by manufacturers and mechanics.
- Maintains your car’s condition and performance over the long term.
- Involves replacing worn parts (only if agreed upon), topping up fluids, and carrying out preventative maintenance.
- Can be done at any time of year and doesn’t replace the need for an MOT.
What Happens in a Car Service — Step-by-Step
1. Engine Oil Change
The mechanic drains the old engine oil and replaces it with fresh oil suited to your car’s make and model. Oil keeps the engine’s moving parts lubricated and helps prevent overheating. Old oil becomes dirty and loses its protective properties.a2. Oil Filter Replacement
The old filter, which traps dirt and debris from the oil, is replaced. A clogged filter forces the engine to work harder and can shorten its life.3. Brake Checks
The mechanic inspects brake pads, discs, and fluid levels, and may measure wear to see if parts need replacing. Brakes are your most important safety system.4. Tyre Inspection
Tread depth, tyre pressure, and general condition are checked. Tyres affect grip, fuel economy, and stopping distance.5. Lights & Indicators
All external and internal lights are tested. Faulty lights can lead to accidents and legal penalties, such as a fine or ‘vehicle defect rectification notice’.6. Fluid Levels
Coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windscreen washer fluid are topped up if needed. Fluids like coolant and brake fluid are vital for safe driving, while others, such as washer fluid, support clear visibility when on the road.7. Air Filter Replacement
The filter that keeps dust and debris out of the engine is replaced if dirty. A clean air filter helps your engine run efficiently.8. Battery Health Check
The mechanic tests the battery’s charge and overall condition. Weak batteries are one of the most common causes of breakdowns.9. Suspension & Steering
Key components like shock absorbers, springs, and steering joints are inspected. Worn suspension can affect handling.10. Exhaust System & Emissions
The mechanic checks for leaks, corrosion, or unusual noises. A healthy exhaust keeps emissions within legal limits.11. Windscreen Wipers & Washer System
Blades are checked for wear, and the washer jets are tested. Clear visibility is essential for safety.12. Interior Comfort & Safety Checks
Seat belts, horn, and dashboard warning lights are tested. These features may seem small but can be vital in an emergency.Handy Car Service Checklist
To make things easier, here’s a quick checklist of the key items your mechanic is likely to cover during a car service; perfect to note down and keep handy when booking or attending your next appointment:- Engine oil and oil filter change
- Brake inspection
- Tyre check (pressure, tread, condition)
- Lights and indicators test
- Fluid top-ups (coolant, brake, steering, washer)
- Air filter inspection/replacement
- Battery health check
- Suspension and steering check
- Exhaust and emissions test
- Wiper blade condition
- Seat belts and safety features check
Common FAQs About Car Servicing
Q: How long does a car service take? A: It varies from vehicle to vehicle, but, as a rough guide, an interim service should take around 90 minutes, while a full service might take up to 3 hours or more depending on the garage and if any extra repairs are needed. Q: Dealer or independent garage? A: Both can do a good job — just make sure they’re reputable and use quality parts. Independent garages are often cheaper, but dealers may have specialist knowledge of your car. Q: Can skipping a service affect my insurance? A: While insurance policies don’t usually require regular servicing, skipping them could make it harder to claim if the cause of an accident is linked to poor maintenance. Q: How much does it cost? A: According to Check a Trade, Interim services cost an average of £110, while full services range from £170–£395, depending on you’re the size, age and condition of your car.Next Steps After a Service
- Keep your service records – They can help preserve your car’s value and prove it’s been well maintained.
- Act on recommendations – If your mechanic notes items for attention, get them fixed promptly.
- Book in advance – Garages can get busy, especially during peak times or seasonal demand.
- Stay on schedule – Follow your manufacturer’s service intervals for the best long-term performance.