How Difficult Is Servicing an Old Car?

 

If you are weighing up the pros and cons of buying a used car over a brand new model, or you are starting to suspect your beloved vehicle might be on its last legs, you may be considering whether car servicing in Thurrock is worth it for your old car.

To assist you in making the most informed decision, here we will take a dive into why servicing is important, what a service includes, and finally, how difficult servicing an old car really is.

Why is servicing important?

Servicing your car is important for a multitude of reasons. Although an MOT is a mandatory annual technical inspection for safety, there is also often the option to have your car serviced while your vehicle is still in the shop. This is because a service will help take care of any wear and tear that is found on your car, while the MOT is just an inspection.

Arranging a combined MOT and service can save you a lot of money in the long term, as it allows you to catch smaller issues early before they develop into more serious and expensive problems. For example, it is cheaper to get your oil changed regularly than it is to let it stagnate, which can ultimately break the engine over time.

Servicing can also save you money on fuel, as a healthy and happy car is often more affordable to run. While every component is running at its most effective, the car is likely to be more fuel efficient. Routine servicing can also help elongate your car’s lifespan, saving you from having to fork out for a new vehicle any time soon.

What does a service include?

You can get a few different types of car service, which include many components, including an interim service and the likes. However, a full service typically includes up to 50 or more components, system checks and adjustments, such as:

  • An engine oil change and/or filter replacement
  • Checks on lights, tyres, brakes, steering, and the exhaust
  • Engine checks to make sure the vehicle is running at its most efficient
  • Checks on hydraulic fluid and coolant levels
  • Cooling system checks
  • Suspension checks
  • Alignment of the steering
  • Car battery condition tests

The cost of a full service varies depending on the provider, so it can pay to shop around for the cheapest yet most reliable garage. You should also remember that the cost of the service is only for the checks themselves – any problems that are found will have the necessary repairs and replacements costed up separately.

How often your car needs to be serviced depends on the make and model of your car, how many miles you drive, and how it is used. The car manual will tell you the manufacturer recommended service frequency. Another factor that affects how often a car is serviced is, of course, how old your vehicle is.

When Does a New Car Need a Service?

Knowing when to service your new car is crucial for proper maintenance. Follow manufacturer recommendations for the first service, typically within 6 to 12 months or after reaching a specific mileage. Consider the break-in period, warranty requirements, driving conditions, and ongoing maintenance needs to determine the ideal timing. Keep your new car in top shape by staying informed and proactive about its maintenance schedule.

How difficult is servicing an old car?

Maintaining an old car doesn’t have to be an overly difficult job; however, it is true that the older the car is, the likelier it is that the mechanical parts within the car will need to be replaced. Periodical maintenance and mechanical check ups are therefore essential for old and used cars.

Difficulties might be especially likely to arise in relation to the age of your vehicle if you have not had it regularly serviced in the past, which could lead to faults within the car’s mechanisms going unnoticed until they become more severe problems. If the car is really old, it might also be harder to source compatible parts for repairs.

Your financial situation will also probably be a vital factor. Some people may never buy a brand-new car in their lifetime, or might only buy one and make it last for decades with regular servicing and maintenance. On the other hand, for others, it may make more financial sense to continually upgrade to a better car to keep up with the newest trends and technologies.

Therefore, if you are sticking to a strict budget, keeping your old car maintained can be cheaper than paying a significant amount of cash for a new model. In addition to helping you catch any problems early, it will also help ensure your old car benefits from the best all-round TLC, thereby helping to keep it running to its best ability.

However, there comes a point in every car’s lifespan when the upkeep of the vehicle becomes too expensive. Some people prefer to drive their beloved car until it is on its last legs, whereas some people might start car shopping when repair costs amount to 50% of the estimated resale value.

So, as you can see, servicing an old car doesn’t have to be too difficult, provided that it’s been well looked after. You might, however, need to be more vigilant in looking out for faults, than you would be with a model that has just emerged from the dealership.

Contact Advanced Service Centre Laindon about our own car servicing expertise today, and you can help ensure your old vehicle continues running as if it was brand new.

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