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How Often Should You Service Your Car?
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A complete UK and Slough guide by Auto X Limited
You rely on your car every day. You take it through Slough town traffic, the M4 corridor, Windsor roads, and long runs to Heathrow or Reading. At some point you ask yourself a simple question. When should you service your car. Drivers also ask what a full service includes, how much a service costs, and how to find trusted garages near me. Many look for cheap car service near me but soon realise that price alone is not enough.
This guide gives you clear answers backed by real UK data, along with experience from Auto X Limited in Slough.
What a Service Includes at Auto X Limited
A proper service keeps your car smooth, safe, and reliable. It is more than an oil change. At Auto X Limited we follow each manufacturer schedule. We use approved oils, correct filters, and carry out full system checks.
We complete the following during a full service:
- Replace engine oil with correct OEM grade
- Replace oil filter and air filter when due
- Replace cabin filter where required
- Inspect brake pads, discs, lines and fluid level
- Check suspension arms, joints, shocks and steering
- Check tyres, adjust pressures and inspect tread depth
- Check coolant level and freeze strength
- Test battery and charging system
- Check lights, wipers and washers
- Run diagnostic scan for faults
You get a full written report. Everything is explained in plain language.
How Often Should You Service Your Car?
Most UK motoring organisations recommend a full service every twelve months or every twelve thousand miles. This follows the guidance used in many handbooks and official service schedules.
Driving Style and Recommended Service Frequency
| Driving Style / Use | Suggested Service Interval |
|---|---|
| 8,000–12,000 miles per year (mixed driving) | Full service every 12 months |
| 15,000–20,000 miles per year (long routes) | Full service every 12,000 miles + interim every 6,000 miles |
| Short town trips and stop-start traffic | Interim service every 6 months + full service yearly |
| Hybrid or electric vehicles | Full yearly service with relevant system checks |
If you want tailored advice, Auto X Limited can check your mileage, your driving pattern and your car model.
UK Car Service Costs in 2025
You also need a clear idea of service prices. Costs change based on your engine size, oil type, age, and the type of service.
Typical Service Costs Across the UK
| Service Type / Car Size | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Full service — small car | £170–£210 |
| Full service — medium car | £210–£300 |
| Full service — large or higher-spec | £300–£395+ |
| Interim service | From £110 upwards |
Service prices depend on oil grade, filter type, labour time, and any extra work. Auto X Limited stays within these ranges while using approved parts. You can call or message with your registration number and mileage for an instant quote.
Interim vs Full Service
Interim services are basic. They cover oil, oil filter, and essential safety checks. Full services go far deeper. They include more replacements, more inspection points, and more diagnostic checks. If you drive long distances or many short trips, adding an interim service between full services helps avoid strain on your engine.
Example Service Plan
Here is a simple plan for a typical medium sized car driven in and around Slough.
| Time / Mileage | Service Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 0–12 months / up to 12,000 miles | Full service | £210–£260 |
| 6 months / around 6,000 miles | Interim service | £110–£150 |
| 12–24 months | Full service | £210–£300 |
| 18 months (if heavy driving) | Interim service | £110–£150 |
This helps spread out maintenance costs and keeps your car running smoothly.
Why Servicing Matters
Many drivers delay servicing. That decision often leads to bigger repairs. UK statistics show that unexpected repair bills can reach £650 or more when maintenance is skipped. Regular servicing helps avoid sudden failures and protects safety systems, brakes, suspension and electronics.
You lower long term costs when you stick to the schedule.
How to Pick Good Garages Near Me
Your choice of garage affects the quality of your service. Look for garages that:
- Explain exactly what is included
- Use correct oil grades and approved parts
- Provide clear quotes upfront
- Offer itemised breakdowns
- Contact you before any extra work
- Give accurate turnaround times
Auto X Limited follows all these steps. You get transparency from the start.
Keeping Service Costs Manageable
You can keep your service bills reasonable without harming your car. Follow your manufacturer schedule. Combine MOT and service when possible. Ask for itemised quotes. Ask the garage to call before completing extra work. These steps keep your maintenance costs predictable and controlled.
Warning Signs Between Services
You should visit Auto X Limited sooner if you notice:
- Warning lights
- Brake noise or long stopping distance
- Engine misfires or loss of power
- Vibrations in the steering wheel
- Fluid leaks
- Burning smells or odd sounds
A quick check prevents bigger problems later.
What to Bring When You Visit Auto X Limited
Bring your service book if you have one. Note any symptoms. Make sure your locking wheel nut is in the car. Clear the boot so we can access the spare wheel or battery. These small steps speed up the job and help us give you the best result.
Final Guidance for Slough Drivers
Your car needs a full service every twelve months or twelve thousand miles. If you drive short trips or long routes, adjust your service pattern. Compare garages using the tables above. Look for clarity, correct parts, and honest quotes. If you want advice based on your own mileage and driving style, reach out to Auto X Limited. Share your registration and mileage and we will guide you with a clear plan that fits your car.