If you own a car for long enough, then there will be times when you’ll need to take it to a service garage, whether that be for a routine check or maybe some urgent repair work.
Of course when you do take a car for a service you’ll want all the work needed for it to be completed and at a reasonable price too. However, some of the tips and other things that get spread online or through word of mouth about car servicing can be fear-mongering or just plain unhelpful.
In this guide, we tackle four of the biggest myths regarding taking a car for a service.
Mechanics do extra work just to drive up repair bills
Some people may find that when they take a car in for a service, the mechanics will end up charging you not just for the repairs you expected but for other separate changes and repairs as well.
While it can be surprising and means you’ll pay more than likely expected, it doesn’t automatically mean that the mechanics are just finding ways to drive up the bill you pay.
When a mechanic is checking or fixing one component in your car, they may observe other parts of the car while they’ve got the opportunity. As well as completing their original task, they may end up discovering other faults worth highlighting.
If you’re unsure as to whether a particular component needs replacing according to a garage, you could check your vehicle’s owners manual and check the maintenance schedule. For instance, if a mechanic says the transmission fluid needs changing, has the car done enough miles to warrant a change based on the manufacturer’s official recommendations?
You should have the final say on whether a particular repair actually takes place, so feel free to ask for evidence when you’re told a repair is needed. Just don’t be easily dismissive of any safety-related issues though.
Independent repair shops are always cheaper than dealership service
Some independent repair shops may charge lower labour rates than franchised dealer service garages, but it’s not a guarantee with every single one.
All repair shops pay retail prices for the parts they install, but some independent shops may charge a little extra. The main thing that should take priority above all other things, including the cost of paying the bill, is the quality of the service.
Services are worth visiting to get the oil changed after every 3,000 miles
The widely shared idea that oil changes are best for cars after every 3,000 miles covered is outdated, so you don’t need to visit a service garage so frequently just for this job.
Consult your owner’s manual to see what the manufacturer of your car recommends in regards to how many miles to cover before every oil change. Some cars are fine travelling on the same oil for more than double the 3,000-mile figure that has been spread around.
Modern cars require virtually no maintenance
It’s true that new cars nowadays don’t require as much maintenance as those sold, say, a couple of decades ago. But owners should still be careful not to get complacent.
Oil changes are worthwhile doing at least annually and the tyres should be regularly checked to make sure there’s not too much wear and tear. Also, engine air filters and cabin air filters usually need changing every couple of years.
If you clock up 100,000 miles on your car, then things like the engine coolant, transmission fluid and spark plugs will likely need a check and possible replacement.
