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Servicing

How often should you service your car?

Updated 2 min readSources: The Motor Ombudsman

Quick answer

As often as your manufacturer says. Many cars have a service interval based on time, mileage or whichever comes first, for example every 12 months or after a set mileage, but it varies between vehicles. Your owner's manual, service book or digital service record shows what applies to your car.

Key facts

Who sets it
The vehicle manufacturer
Interval
Often 12 months or a set mileage, whichever comes first. It varies
Where to look
Owner's manual, service book or digital service record
Legal requirement
No. The MOT is the legal test
In this article

Where to find your car's service schedule

Look in the owner's manual, the service book or the digital service record. Some newer cars use a flexible schedule and show a message on the dashboard when maintenance is due. If you cannot find it, the manufacturer or an authorised dealer can tell you what applies to your car.

What happens if you skip a service?

  • Faults can go unnoticed until they become bigger and more expensive.
  • Gaps in the service history are something buyers look at when they judge the car's condition and value.
  • Warranty claims can be affected if missed maintenance contributed to the fault. Manufacturer and extended warranties often require servicing at the recommended intervals.

Do you have to use a main dealer?

No. You can have your car serviced at an authorised dealer or at an independent garage. Whoever does it, the service must follow the manufacturer's schedule, and you may need to show that it did. Keep thorough records and invoices. See how to choose a garage.

Tip: If your car is under warranty, read the warranty terms before you decide where to service it. If you have a dispute with an accredited business, The Motor Ombudsman can step in.

How a service differs from an MOT

The MOT is a yearly legal check of safety and emissions. A service is maintenance that keeps the car running well, and the MOT does not replace it. See what an MOT checks and interim vs full service.

Common questions

Should a car be serviced every 6 or 12 months?

It depends on the car. Many have a 12-month or set-mileage interval, whichever comes first, and some use flexible schedules. Follow the schedule for your vehicle.

Will using an independent garage void my warranty?

Not by itself. You can choose an authorised dealer or an independent garage. The service must follow the manufacturer's schedule and you should keep records to show it did.

Do I need a service before an MOT?

No. They are separate, and you do not need one to book the other.

How do I know what my car's service includes?

Ask the garage for a written quote that explains the level of service and lists the checks, and whether parts, top-ups and disposal are included.

Sources

Facts last checked against these pages on .

General information for drivers in Great Britain, not legal advice. Northern Ireland has different MOT rules. Spotted a mistake? Email hello@carfixnearme.com. See how we write and check our advice.

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