If you have recently passed your driving test, congrats on joining the motoring community and no doubt it won’t be long until you buy your very first car. One thing every vehicle needs is maintenance, which we outline in this short article.
It’s all about mileage
Every car should be serviced according to the mileage it has been driven; a typical service interval would be 5,000-8,000 kms (see owner’s manual) and you should never exceed these figures, well not by much. In the rear section of the owner’s manual is all the servicing data, informing you what exactly needs to be checked with every service. The owner’s manual should follow the car throughout its life, passed on from owner to owner, with all maintenance and repairs recorded. When you are ready to purchase your first set of wheels, check out https://www.cars4us.com.au/, a leading digital platform where you’ll find the best deals.
Basic components of a vehicle service
Generally speaking, the following would be done during a vehicle service:
- Engine oil/ oil filter replaced.
- Air filter replaced/cleaned.
- All fluid levels checked and topped up when necessary.
- All drive belts checked for condition and damage.
- Brake pads inspected and replaced when worn to a certain point.
- Spark plugs inspected and re-gapped.
- Lights inspection.
- Shock absorber inspection.
There might be other components to replace, depending on the mileage, when complete, the mechanic would take the car for a drive and check that all is well before stamping the owner’s manual and recording the details.
Full service history (FSH)
Should you ever decide to sell your car, the potential buyer will expect to see a full service history and the absence of this would impact the car’s value. Most people are reluctant to take a chance on a car with no service history for obvious reasons, so keep to the recommended schedule and you will have peace of mind knowing that your car is in good working order.
Pre-journey check
Whether you’re going round the corner or to another state, you should always do a walk-around, looking at the tyres and bodywork; get into the habit and it will become second nature – it could save your life one day!
Find a local garage that works on your make of car and they will carry out every service; most will email you shortly before the service is due and you can book the car in. Some garages offer their customers a loan car, so you can go about your business while your car is being serviced. Treat the car with respect, service it regularly and it will always be ready to take you where you need to be.
