A Car Service Today Ensures A Safer Tomorrow

Like anything your vehicle needs regular maintenance to keep it in good working order. This can help to keep your car running for longer and it helps to prevent damage, which can be costly. A vehicle that is in good working order will also have a higher resale value. It is clearly worth the time and expense of servicing your car regularly. And no, spending every Sunday washing and polishing your car is not going to improve the condition of the engine.

Many of the components of your vehicle's engine are designed to last for 100 000km. However, other car parts such as the various filters, as well as the fluids, are vital to maintain the good condition of the more expensive parts of your car, such as the engine and gearbox. These will, therefore, need to be changed more regularly.

During a car service there are a number of components that are checked to ensure good working order, certain parts may be replaced (such as the oil and oil filter), and then the service team will report back on the condition of your vehicle. Some companies provide myriad supplementary services including the following:

? Inspection and service: This includes stringent examination of various components of your vehicle and will include changing the oil, oil filter and spark plugs. Check whether the car service company uses its own list or if they follow those recommendations of the manufacturer of your vehicle. The latter is preferred as there may be certain weaknesses specific to your make and model.

? Diagnostics: Occasionally you may see the warning lights in your dashboard light up. This could indicate the need for a top-up of the oil in the oil tank or distilled water in the battery. If, however, the light remains illuminated, you may have a bigger problem and should get your vehicle checked out.

? Clutch and gearbox: If you find yourself pushing further on the clutch than usual or if it suddenly becomes very easy to depress when before it was stiff, it is vital that this be checked. Likewise if you encounter a problem engaging or disengaging gears. You don't want to be driving on a freeway in the fast lane and suddenly have your gearbox disintegrate and your vehicle slow down.

? Brakes: These are vital components of your vehicle and the brake pads should be checked regularly to ensure their effectiveness. Some companies that offer car service will do this for free.

? Suspension: Does your car make a "clunk" sound when you drive round a corner or over a bump? Modern vehicles feature the latest technology, but these components can wear out and you may need to have your suspension checked.

? Shocks: Shocks are important to your vehicle's road holding. If you car seems to bounce excessively or if it leans far when turning a corner, then we recommend getting these tested.

? Engine: Check underneath your car after it has parked for a while. Are there any fluids leaking out of the engine? This can be dangerous if a sticky solution gets onto the brakes as they will not work. If there are no fluids to lubricate the engine, metal will grate against metal and cause car parts to deteriorate.

In the event that you require certain car parts be replaced, it is often better to get the original parts from the manufacturer, as these can be stronger and of a better quality than cheaper replicas. The company that serviced your car may not be able to do the repairs you require, especially if it is the electrics that are malfunctioning or the exhaust and sound box that need replacing. The company should then be able to recommend a place that offers quality repairs and replacements at a reasonable price. Through regular car service and maintenance, these costly ventures can be avoided.