A full service is a comprehensive maintenance visit that combines replacement of scheduled items with an expert inspection of your car’s key systems. Most drivers book one every 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first, to keep the vehicle running smoothly, protect components from wear, and maintain a complete service history. It is not the same as an MOT. An MOT is a legal roadworthiness test. A full service is preventative maintenance that keeps your car safe, reliable, and efficient between MOTs.
Full Service: The 12 items we cover
- Engine oil and filter replacement
We drain the old engine oil, remove the oil filter, and fit a new, quality filter before filling with the manufacturer-correct grade of fresh oil. This lubricates moving parts, protects against friction and heat, and helps the engine deliver full performance. Clean oil also supports better fuel economy and can lengthen engine life when changed on schedule. - Air filter replacement
Your engine air filter traps dust and debris before they reach the combustion chambers. A clogged filter restricts airflow, which can reduce power and increase fuel use. We replace it where due, restoring proper airflow and helping your engine breathe freely. - Cabin or pollen filter check and replace if required
The cabin filter cleans the air entering your heating and ventilation system. When it is saturated, you may notice misted windows, weak airflow, and unpleasant odours. We inspect and replace it if needed, so you get clearer screens and cleaner air inside the car. - Fuel filter service where applicable
On many diesels and some petrol cars, the fuel filter removes fine particles and water from the fuel supply. If it clogs, you may see hard starting or hesitation. We check service schedules and replace where due, which protects injectors and keeps combustion smooth. - Spark plugs on petrol engines where the schedule requires
Spark plugs ignite the fuel air mixture. Worn plugs can cause misfires, rough idle, and poor economy. We follow the manufacturer interval for your engine, fitting the correct type and torqueing them precisely to maintain reliable starting and clean running. - Full brake system inspection
We measure pad and disc thickness, check brake hoses and lines for corrosion or damage, assess the condition of callipers and sliders, and test the parking brake or electronic park brake. If wheels are removed as part of the check, we refit and torque correctly. You will get a clear report on remaining life, any advisories, and any safety-critical issues that need attention. - Steering and suspension inspection
We check for play, wear, and leaks across track rod ends, ball joints, wishbone bushes, springs, dampers, mounts, and steering gaiters. Excess wear in these parts affects stability, tyre wear, and braking distance. Early identification saves money and keeps the car composed on the road. - Tyres and wheels
We measure tread depth across the width of each tyre, inspect sidewalls and valve stems, set pressures to the correct specification, and note the tyre age where markings are accessible. Even wear patterns indicate healthy alignment and suspension. We also flag any cuts, bulges, or puncture risks so you can plan replacements before they become urgent. - Lights, wipers, horn, and safety electrics
We test every exterior and interior light, check headlamp aim, operate the horn, and assess wiper condition and washer operation. Clear visibility and working lights are vital for safety and for passing an MOT. If any bulbs or wipers need replacement, we will let you know and fit them with your approval. - Battery and charging system health
We assess battery state of charge and cranking capability with a suitable tester, then confirm alternator output and belt condition where accessible. A weak battery often shows up first as slow starting or electrical glitches, so catching it at service time avoids inconvenient breakdowns. - All fluid levels and top-ups
We check coolant strength and level, brake fluid level and condition, power steering fluid where fitted, gearbox fluid where accessible, and screenwash. Any leaks are noted and investigated. Correct fluids protect against overheating, corrosion, and component wear, and help the car operate as designed in hot and cold weather. - Road test and service indicator reset
After workshop checks, we road test to confirm pedal feel, steering response, ride quality, and any noises under load. We then reset the service indicator and update your digital or paper service record. You leave with a clear report, a stamp in the logbook where applicable, and advice on anything that may be needed before the next interval.
How this differs from an MOT
An MOT checks that your vehicle meets minimum legal standards on the day of the test. It focuses on safety and emissions, and it does not include routine replacements such as engine oil, filters, or spark plugs. A full service is a deeper look at the health of the car with scheduled maintenance built in. The two work together. Book your MOT when due, and keep to your service schedule to avoid minor issues turning into expensive failures.
How often should you book a full service
For most cars, the rule of thumb is once a year or every 12,000 miles. Some modern vehicles have variable service intervals that use sensors to judge oil condition and driving style. We always follow your manufacturer’s recommendations, which take priority. If you do lots of short trips, tow regularly, or drive in dusty or stop-start conditions, you may benefit from earlier oil changes or more frequent checks.
What about EVs and hybrids
Electric vehicles still need routine checks. There is no engine oil to change, but tyres, brakes, suspension, steering, lights, and cabin filters remain essential. Brake fluid also has a time-based change interval. On a full service for an EV or hybrid, we perform the same safety inspections, add visual checks on high-voltage components and cooling systems where applicable, and confirm charging port condition and cable status.
What to expect on the day
A typical full service involves a few hours in the workshop. We will confirm the booking length in advance, keep you updated, and seek your approval before carrying out any work that is not included in the fixed service. You will receive a clear, itemised invoice showing the parts fitted and the labour carried out, along with the service record update. If we find advisories, we will explain priorities in plain English, including what is urgent for safety and what can wait until the next visit.
Why a full service is good value
Regular servicing reduces the risk of breakdowns, protects expensive components such as turbochargers and timing systems, and helps your car run efficiently. A complete service history also supports resale value. More importantly, a full service provides peace of mind that suspension, brakes, and tyres receive expert attention before they reach a critical point.
Ready to book
If your dashboard reminder has appeared, your mileage has reached the interval, or it has been twelve months since your last visit, book your full service now. You will get transparent pricing, quality parts that meet the manufacturer standard, and technicians who treat your car with care.