Is It Time for Your Next Car Service? Here’s What to Check

Life gets busy, and its easy to let routine car maintenance slip through the cracks. But staying on top of your car service schedule is one of the most important things you can do to ensure your vehicle remains safe, reliable, and roadworthyespecially on Australian roads where conditions can vary greatly.

So, how do you know when its time to book your next service? Below, weve outlined the key things to check, the risks of delaying a service, and how proper maintenance contributes to overall vehicle safety and longevity.

Why Regular Car Servicing Matters

A car service Cranbourne Northisnt just about changing the oil. Its a comprehensive check of your vehicles critical systemsengine, brakes, suspension, tyres, fluids, and more. Servicing helps catch minor issues before they become major (and costly) problems. It also ensures your vehicle stays fuel-efficient and performs the way it should.

More importantly, regular servicing contributes directly to your safety. Faulty brakes, worn tyres, or low fluid levels can lead to breakdowns or even accidents. In Victoria, if youre planning to sell or re-register your car, youll also need a valid roadworthy certificate, which requires your car to be in good working ordersomething regular servicing helps maintain.

Key Signs Your Car Might Be Due for a Service

Not sure whether its time to book your car in? Here are some telltale signs:

1. Dashboard Warning Lights Are On

If your check engine, oil pressure, or battery light is illuminated, dont ignore it. Its your vehicles way of telling you something needs attentionsooner rather than later.

2. Strange Noises or Vibrations

Unusual sounds like grinding brakes, a rattling exhaust, or knocking under the bonnet could indicate worn parts or mechanical issues. Vibrations at certain speeds can be linked to tyre wear or alignment problems.

3. Changes in Performance

If your car feels sluggish, struggles to start, or has reduced fuel efficiency, it may be due for a tune-up. Delaying a car service can cause these issues to worsen.

4. You Cant Remember Your Last Service

If its been over six months or youve driven more than 10,000 kilometres since your last visit, its likely time to schedule a serviceeven if your car seems to be running fine.

5. Youre Planning to Sell or Transfer Ownership

To legally sell a car in Victoria, youll need a roadworthy certificate issued by a licensed tester. Regular servicing helps ensure your vehicle will meet the safety standards required to pass the inspection.

What Gets Checked During a Car Service?

While service inclusions may vary depending on your cars make and model, heres what a standard service generally covers:

• Engine oil and filter replacement

• Brake inspection and adjustment

• Tyre rotation and pressure check

• Battery testing

• Steering and suspension check

• Fluid top-ups (coolant, brake, transmission)

• Lights and wiper function

• Road test to confirm performance

A full or major service may also include spark plugs, air filters, timing belt inspection, and wheel alignment.

Roadworthy Readiness and Servicing

In Victoria, a roadworthy certificate Cranbourne Northis mandatory when transferring vehicle ownership or re-registering a car. During a roadworthy inspection, your car must meet minimum safety standards across several systemsincluding tyres, brakes, steering, and lights.

Keeping up with regular servicing helps ensure your vehicle is always close to roadworthy condition, reducing the risk of failing the inspection. It also gives your mechanic the opportunity to alert you to issues that could prevent your car from passing, saving you both time and hassle later.

How Often Should You Book a Car Service?

Your service frequency depends on a few key factors:

• Manufacturer guidelines Check your owners manual for recommended service intervals (usually every 10,00015,000 km or every 612 months).

• Driving habits Short trips, towing, or dusty roads may require more frequent servicing.

• Vehicle age Older cars often benefit from more frequent check-ups due to wear and tear.

If youre ever unsure, its better to service a little early than risk running your vehicle past its limits.

Final Thoughts

Regular car service is essential not only for performance but also for your safety, fuel economy, and the long-term health of your vehicle. It also helps keep your car in a condition thats ready to pass a roadworthy certificate inspection when needed.

If your vehicle is showing any of the signs aboveor if you simply want the reassurance that everythings running as it shouldits time to book in with a mechanic you trust. For reliable, professional servicing from a local team who understands your cars needs, visit Singhs Tyre & Auto Centre and let their experienced mechanics take care of your next service with care and precision.