what do you need to service a car

How to guide: Servicing your car

• Oil filter removal tool which looks a bit like a bicycle chain with a handle (if sandpaper doesn't work)
• Spark plug removal tool.
• Screw driver for the air filter housing (many have snap on clips instead!)
• Spanner or socket set for the sump plug (the oil drain plug)

More items...

Full Answer

What do I need to perform a basic car service?

Aug 19, 2021 · Inspect shocks and struts – Take your car to the shop if you notice a decrease in smoothness when driving. Shocks and struts are an essential part of …

Do I need a a service on my car?

Sep 23, 2020 · If the manufacturers guide is not available, generally a car should be serviced anywhere from 4,000 to 8,000 miles, depending on the condition of the vehicle. Regular home car maintenance should include: Checking oil levels Engine coolant levels Hydraulic brake fluid levels Windscreen washer refilling

What do I put on the service section of my car?

Apr 11, 2022 · What are the steps to servicing a car? Introduction: How to Perform a Vehicle Maintenance Service. … Step 1: Purchase Oil and Filter. … Step 2: Identify Tools and Materials. … Step 3: Warm Up and Jack Up Vehicle. … Step 4: Drain Old Oil. … Step 5: Change Oil Filter. … Step 6: Add New Oil. … Step 7: ...

What should I check when getting my car serviced?

As well as a basic set of spanners and screwdrivers (and plenty of old rags), these tools include: Socket set (including a spark plug removal socket) Car jack & axle stands Funnel Nitrile gloves Oil filter remover Oil drain tray (or bucket) Torque wrench

How Much Does Car Maintenance Cost?

The costs of car maintenance vary, depending on where you live and the year, make, and model of the car you drive. To help you determine costs of m...

What Does Check Engine Light Mean?

When the “check engine light” flashes or illuminates on the dashboard, it means it’s time to get your car inspected by a certified mechanic at a de...

How Long Can You Drive With Check Engine Light On?

It’s not safe to drive a long distance with your check engine light on. Wherever you may be driving, pull off and go to your nearest car dealership...

The Importance of Car Maintenance

When you perform car maintenance at regular intervals, it keeps your ride in proper working order and helps prevent expensive mechanical repairs down the road. When it’s time to sell or trade in the vehicle, having detailed service records can help boost its value.

How Often Should You Take Your Car in for an Inspection?

Always follow the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations found in your vehicle’s owner’s manual.

Signs My Car Needs Maintenance Done

Even the most well-maintained car will encounter problems that require unexpected service. Often, the vehicle will let you know before it stops operating that there’s an issue needing attention.

Vehicle Maintenance Checklist

Keep up with a schedule of preventative maintenance to maximize the lifespan and performance of your vehicle. Use this list to be aware of what – and when – tasks should be done to help keep your car in proper working order.

What is car service?

A car service is a health check with routine maintenance for your vehicle which assesses everything from your engine’s fluid levels to the general wear and tear of your car. A service is usually undertaken by a mechanic and the most in-depth of them involve around 50 or more system and component checks, adjustments and parts replacement.

Why do you need a regular service?

By getting a regular service you’re likely to see improved fuel efficiency, better handling and a smoother running engine, as well as peace of mind from knowing your vehicle is running optimally. It also decreases the likelihood of your car breaking down either at home or at the roadside.

How to change oil in a car?

Oil change. Jack up your car, unscrew the sump plug in your engine, making sure you’ve removed the oil cap and placed a suitable drain tray underneath to collect the used oil. Next, remove the oil filter with the oil filter remover and wait for all the oil to drain out.

What is a MOT?

An MOT is an annual inspection that checks the safety and environmental impact of a vehicle and is a legal requirement for almost every vehicle on the UK’s roads. For more information on MOT’s, read our guide here. However, while an MOT checks a vehicle’s roadworthiness, it does not delve any deeper than that.

How to check if air filter is dirty?

Usually one of the simpler checks you can do. Simply unclip the airbox and remove it to reveal the dirty air filter. Remove the used air filter and replace with the new clean one, before re-fastening the airbox.

What happens if you put too much pressure on your tyres?

Incorrect tyre pressures can cause loss of performance, tyre wear, poor road handing and instability of the vehicle. So having the right pressure is an essential part of a basic service. Check our tyre pressure guide for more information.

How long does it take for oil to settle on a car?

It is generally better to be slightly under than over as it is much easier to top up than drain off the oil. It can take 5-10 minutes for the level to settle, aim to get half the dipstick level at first. Then when the car has been standing top up again aiming for the top level of the dipstick.

How to get old oil out of engine?

Oil - Drain the old oil from the engine. First run the engine so that the oil is warm, place the catch pan under the sump and loosen the sump nut taking car that it does not fall in to the hole of the catch pan. Be careful as the oil is very HOT!

What does it mean when your plugs are black?

If this is light grey the engine is running lean or black implies that the engine is running rich. (Greasy black plugs can indicate an oil leak).

How long do spark plugs last?

Spark Plugs - Get a good quality brand with a copper core electrode (quads, splits and triples not really necessary for most road cars.) Plugs last for 1 year although some cars use iridium or platinum plugs which are rated for 40,000 miles or 4 years. Read more on Spark Plugs.

What is CV boot?

CV Boots (FWD) - These are the rubber covers over the flexible joint from the gearbox to the wheels. Check these at full right and left lock for cracks. They will need replacing if they are cracked as the joint will dry out and wear very quickly. Brakes - Do the pads still have good depth left on them.

How long do lead lights last?

Leads - These only need replacing if they start to deteriorate and cause misfires, a good set of leads should last easily for 10 years. Filter - air filter - really easy replacement which just drops in. Typically the air filter housing is secured with a few screws or clips.

How long does an air filter last?

An air filter will last for 1 year, unless you live in a very dusty area. Read more on air filters here.... A visual check will reveal if it is dirty.

How long can you leave a car in the garage?

This is one of the things that servicing your car at home gives you over a garage. You can leave the car for an hour, or overnight to drain if you really want. A garage will let the old out, then put the plug straight back on and refill it without letting it drain over time.

Is it good to try something doing or other an engineer to direct you off avoiding damaging of the car engine?

as an auto mechanic like me, is always good to try some thing doing or other an expert engineer to direct you off avoiding damaging of the car engine very important...

Alloy wheel keys or locking nuts

Alloy wheels can be costly, which is why many vehicle manufacturers now fit them with locking nuts to protect from theft. As part of your Car Service, our technicians will need to remove your wheels to inspect the condition of your steering and suspension systems.

An empty boot

Our technicians will need to inspect the condition and tread depth of your spare tyre, which is usually located under the boot of the car. Please empty your boot of luggage and other heavy items before you arrive at the Autocentre.

Your service book

As part of your Service, your car will go through dozens of checks to ensure it is both safe and roadworthy. Even our Interim Service includes 40 checks of your car's vital components - find out what's included.

How does AAA recommend auto repair?

AAA recommends that you plan ahead for vehicle service by finding an auto repair shop and technician you can trust before you need them. AAA.com/AutoRepair provides information on nearly 7,000 Approved Auto Repair facilities that have met AAA’s high standards for appearance, technician training and certification, insurance coverage and customer satisfaction. AAA regularly inspects every Approved Auto Repair facility and surveys their customers to ensure ongoing performance. In addition, AAA members receive special benefits that include auto repair discounts, an extended 24-month/24,000-mile parts and labor warranty, and AAA assistance in resolving repair-related issues.

How many AAA approved auto repair facilities are there in the US?

The AAA Approved Auto Repair Facility Locator is a powerful search tool that gives you easy access to information on over 7,000 AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities across North America.

What is severe service?

The exact definition of severe service varies with the automaker, but it usually involves operating your car under one or more of the following conditions: Primarily short trips (5 miles or less) Extremely hot, cold, or dusty climates. Sustained stop-and-go driving. Carrying heavy loads or towing a trailer.

How often should I change my oil?

A common example of unnecessary car maintenance is changing the engine oil too often. It used to be normal to recommend an oil change every 3,000 miles. However, with modern lubricants, most newer engines have recommended oil change intervals of 5,000 to 7,500 miles.

How do I start a driving service business?

If that still sounds interesting to you, consider these steps when starting a driving service business: 1. Choose a niche market. You’re more likely to get customers if you work in a niche driving market. Don’t try to offer every possible driving service because it’s quite likely that none of them will be done 100% right.

What should be included in a business plan?

Your business plan should include your competition analysis, a financial plan (startup costs, operating costs, expected expenses and income), an operating plan and an overall description of your driving service business. 3. Obtain necessary licenses. You’ll need to apply for a business license. Besides business licenses you’ll need ...

What is commercial auto liability insurance?

Commercial auto liability coverage is essential for any driving service business. A business insurance is also a must-have. It’ll protect you if a customer issues a complaint regarding your service.