Understanding The Difference Between Full And Interim Car Services:
Which One Does Your Vehicle Need?
When it comes to keeping your car in optimal condition, regular servicing is crucial. However, with different types of services available, it can be confusing to know which one your vehicle needs.
Two of the most common types of car services are the full service and the interim service. While both are designed to maintain your car’s performance, they serve different purposes and are scheduled at different intervals. In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between these two services, how to know which one your car requires, and why regular servicing is a smart investment.
What’s Included In A Full Service?
A full service is a comprehensive check-up for your vehicle, typically recommended every 12 months or after a set number of miles, often around 12,000 miles. It’s designed to thoroughly inspect all key components of your car, ensuring everything is working correctly and efficiently. Here’s what you can expect during a full service:
- Engine Oil And Oil Filter Replacement
Changing the engine oil is perhaps the most crucial part of a full service. Oil keeps your engine running smoothly, and over time, it degrades, losing its ability to lubricate properly. Replacing the oil filter at the same time ensures that the new oil stays clean and effective.
- Brake System Inspection
Your car’s braking system is vital for safety. During a full service, the brake pads, discs, and fluid levels are checked to ensure they are functioning optimally. Worn brake pads or low brake fluid can lead to longer stopping distances or even brake failure, so this check is essential.
- Fluid Levels Check And Top-Up
Beyond the engine oil, your car relies on various fluids, including coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid. A full service will top these up, ensuring that your car’s systems operate efficiently and don’t overheat or fail.
- Tyre Check
Your tyres are the only contact between your car and the road, so their condition is paramount for both safety and performance. A full service includes checking tyre pressure, tread depth, and overall condition. If necessary, the tyres will be rotated to ensure even wear.
- Air And Cabin Filters Replacement
Over time, the filters in your car become clogged with dirt, dust, and debris. The engine air filter and the cabin filter are replaced during a full service, ensuring that the engine breathes properly and that the air inside the cabin stays clean.
- Spark Plug And Timing Belt Check
The spark plugs are responsible for igniting the air-fuel mixture in your engine, and if they’re worn, the engine’s performance can suffer. Similarly, the timing belt keeps your engine’s components working in harmony. A full service often includes a check of the timing belt to prevent premature wear or failure.
- Suspension And Steering Inspection
The suspension system absorbs shocks from the road and keeps your car stable. The steering system is equally important for precise handling. A full service ensures that all components are in good condition, keeping you safe and comfortable on the road.
- Comprehensive Diagnostics
Modern cars are equipped with complex computer systems that monitor everything from engine performance to the health of various components. During a full service, the mechanic will plug into your car’s diagnostic system to check for any potential issues that may not be immediately noticeable, such as engine misfires or electronic faults.
What’s Included In An Interim Service?
An interim service is a lighter, more basic check-up that typically happens every 6 months or after around 6,000 miles. It’s ideal for those who drive frequently or cover long distances and need to ensure their car stays in good shape between full services. Here’s what an interim service typically includes:
- Oil And Oil Filter Change
Just like in a full service, an interim service includes an oil and oil filter change. This is particularly important for cars that do a lot of short trips or city driving, as the oil can degrade faster in such conditions.
- Tyre Inspection
While an interim service may not rotate tyres, it will check their condition. The mechanic will look at tread depth and tyre pressure to make sure there are no signs of wear that could affect safety or performance.
- Brake Fluid And Pads Check
The brake fluid levels and the condition of the brake pads are examined during an interim service. However, this service typically won’t involve replacing parts—just checking that everything is operating within the normal range.
- Basic Fluid Checks
While an interim service won’t top up all fluids like a full service, it will ensure that essential fluids, such as engine oil and brake fluid, are at the correct levels to maintain proper function.
- Lights, Wipers, And Battery
An interim service will usually check that all of your car’s lights are working correctly, as well as the condition of the windscreen wipers and battery. These small components can be easily overlooked, but they play an important role in your car’s functionality and safety.
When Should You Choose A Full Service Over An Interim Service?
The main factor in choosing between a full service and an interim service is how much you drive and the age of your vehicle.
Full Service: If you drive fewer miles or don’t require frequent servicing, a full service every 12 months (or 12,000 miles) should be sufficient. It’s the most thorough option and can help catch issues before they develop into serious problems. It’s especially recommended for older vehicles or if you haven’t serviced your car in a while.
Interim Service: If you cover long distances or drive frequently, you may benefit from an interim service every 6 months or 6,000 miles. This service helps ensure that your car remains in good running condition between more comprehensive full services.
Why Regular Servicing Matters
Regular servicing—whether full or interim—ensures that your car runs efficiently and reduces the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns. Ignoring scheduled maintenance can lead to expensive repairs down the road. Even basic services can identify issues early, saving you money and keeping your car in top condition.
Which Service Does Your Car Need?
Deciding whether to go for a full service or an interim service depends on your driving habits, the age of your vehicle, and how often you use it. A full service provides a detailed, all-encompassing inspection, ideal for cars that need a more thorough check-up once a year. On the other hand, an interim service is a perfect choice for those who clock up high mileage or drive frequently, providing regular checks to keep your car performing optimally between full services.
No matter which service you choose, regular maintenance is essential for keeping your car in safe and reliable condition. Get in touch with us today to book your next service!
