How Often Should a Major Car Service Be Performed?

From a mechanic’s perspective, major servicing intervals depend on wear and tear. A motorway commuter’s Ford Focus might stretch to 15,000 miles between services, while a taxi driver’s Nissan Leaf, subjected to constant use, should be checked every 10,000 miles. Look for warning signs: rough idling, reduced fuel efficiency, or unusual noises. These often signal the need for an immediate service, regardless of mileage.

The interval for a major car service is typically every 3 years or 60,000 kilometers, depending on the manufacturer's guidelines as specified in the owner's manual. A major service involves performing all maintenance items listed in the manual.

A major car service includes maintenance for the engine, chassis, and body components.

For engine maintenance, in addition to changing the oil and oil filter, inspections are conducted on the fuel system, oil pan, valves, seals, spark plugs, and other parts. Any components showing excessive wear or aging should be replaced.

Chassis maintenance primarily covers three major areas: the suspension, front and rear axles, and braking system. Hardware is inspected to ensure there is no wear or damage, followed by reinforcement and realignment. Fluids such as shock absorber fluid, brake fluid, and lubricants are also topped up or replaced.

Body component maintenance involves checking for issues like looseness, aging or broken fasteners, or misalignment in parts such as tires, fenders, hood, dashboard, seat belts, seats, and pedals.

During a major service, owners should pay attention to fluid conditions, including brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, and shock absorber fluid. If these fluids were recently replaced, it's important to inform the service advisor.