Essential Vehicle Maintenance Checks and Service Schedule

If you want to keep your car safe, reliable, and efficient, a schedule for checking it and maintaining it is the best way. This comprehensive guide covers essential checks and maintenance timing to help you develop an effective vehicle service plan. Some of these checks you might have come across if you recently did show-me tell-me questions as part of your learner licence.

Essential Maintenance Schedule

Daily and weekly Checks 

Before driving, take a quick walk around your vehicle to spot any obvious issues. Check your lights are working and windscreen is clean. Weekly checks should include tyre pressure, oil level, and screen wash top-up. These simple checks can prevent bigger problems developing.

Monthly Vehicle Maintenance

Once a month, perform a more thorough inspection, including:

• Tyre tread depth (legal UK minimum is 1.6mm)
• All fluid levels, including brake fluid and power steering fluid
• Battery condition
• Windscreen wipers and washer jets
• Warning lights on dashboard
• Unusual noises or vibrations

Six-Monthly Service Items

Every six months or 6,000 miles, whichever comes first:

• Oil and filter change (unless the manufacturer specifies longer intervals)
• Brake inspection
• Check suspension components
• Test all lights and electrical systems
• Inspect the auxiliary drive belt condition
• Check air filter

Annual Vehicle Service

A full service should include all the above plus:

• Comprehensive brake system check
• Exhaust system inspection
• Steering alignment check
• Air conditioning service
• Spark plug replacement (if due)
• Cabin filter change
• Thorough road test

Vehicle Maintenance Record 

Keep detailed records of all maintenance work. Note the date, mileage and work carried out. This helps track when services are due and provides valuable history if you sell the vehicle. Many garages now offer digital service records, which make this easier to manage. There are also apps which can help you manage it.

Manufacturer-Specific Maintenance 

Always check your vehicle handbook for manufacturer-recommended service intervals. Some modern vehicles have variable service intervals based on driving style and conditions. The vehicle’s onboard computer will indicate when a service is due.

Professional Vehicle Servicing 

While many maintenance checks can be done at home, regular professional servicing is essential. A qualified mechanic can spot potential issues before they become serious problems. According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), regular servicing can extend a vehicle’s lifespan by several years.

Seasonal Maintenance Considerations 

Additional checks are needed as seasons change:

Winter Preparation:

• Battery condition (cold weather puts extra strain on batteries)
• Antifreeze concentration
• Winter tyres or snow chains if needed
• Emergency equipment, including torch, blanket and shovel

Summer Checks:

• Air conditioning efficiency
• Cooling system condition
• UV protection for rubber components
• Screenwash with summer formula

Cost-Effective Maintenance 

Regular maintenance might seem expensive, but it’s more cost-effective than dealing with major failures. Following a proper maintenance schedule helps prevent breakdowns and maintains your vehicle’s value. Many garages offer service plans where you can spread the cost of maintenance throughout the year.

By following this comprehensive maintenance schedule, you’ll help ensure your vehicle remains reliable and safe while potentially saving money on repairs. Remember that this is a general guide; always refer to your vehicle’s manual for specific maintenance requirements and intervals.