Do I Really Need a Service?

People often ask if a service is really worth it. Simply put, yes it is! Your vehicle is full of moving parts and fluid moves around the components constantly, so along with wear and tear, fluids going from cold to hot and back again, you’re also having any sediment, rust, dirt and even unwanted water from condensation (for example, in your fuel or brake fluid) moving around. Simply put, if you don’t have your oils, fluids and filters changed at regular intervals, it will 100% effect the running and performance of your vehicle, and sometimes with disastrous consequences. Your vehicle may just be to get you from A to B, but it is a machine, and needs regular maintenance to prevent breakdowns and repairs. Below are a few reasons why you should get a service on your vehicle. If anything seems off, you should definitely consider booking in for one.
 
Your engine oil is black
 
Not so much of an issue with diesels, as they suffer from soot deposits, but your engine oil should be a lovely golden brown colour. Think Golden Syrup. If you have a petrol vehicle and it’s black, you’ll definitely benefit from at least an oil and filter change. For any vehicle, if it’s thick and black, that usually tells the tale of many missed services and very little TLC, so get booked in for a full service ASAP. If the oil hasn’t been changed in years, imagine what else hasn’t.
 
You hear odd noises
 
We often joke about a car making noises and turning up the radio so you don’t hear it, but really, you should get them checked out. If you don’t know when the last time you had your brake pads changed, your coolant changed or your oil and filter done, it’s worth checking out. Vehicles can make a huge amount of different noises, some worse than others, and servicing can pick up on anything untoward or prevent those pesky noises altogether.
 
You have a mystery puddle
 
Ever gone out to your car after a long day in the office, reversed out of your parking space and noticed a random puddle of something suspicious in your space? Pro tip: get out, pop your finger in it and smell it before rubbing it between your fingers. Some puddles are simply the condensation from the air con unit (and it could be a hefty puddle), but if it smells odd or feels oily between your fingers, you have a vital fluid leak. Before your car gets hot, check the fluid levels under the bonnet to see if you can find the issue. Even if they look fine, get someone out to check over your vehicle ASAP. Some leaks are slow, and a check over will determine the issue before things get any worse.
 
You suffer power loss, stalling or a non-start
 
There are so many reasons why your vehicle may not be performing at its peak, from a faulty fuel injector to a dud alternator, the possibilities are almost endless. Sometimes a simple plug-in diagnosis can help to figure out exactly what is going on, but a simple bit of air or water in the fuel system can cause stalling. Services can help prevent these issues in the first place, with most fixes done then and there (unless it’s something more serious). Did you know the most common reasons for non-starts in the winter is battery drainage? A simple service as we come into the colder months will help prevent it.
 
Your brakes feel “weird”
 
Ever heard an odd squeal when you press the brake pedal or feel it lose pressure for a second? That usually means you have an issue with your brakes, whether it’s the fluid itself or the brake pads. And one of the most important safety features on your car? Your braking system. Hearing a squeal usually means your pads are running low, and if you leave the issue thinking it’s normal or that it will go away, you could risk damaging your brake disc or even the caliper, which then starts to get very expensive. If you have a feeling something is wrong, it usually means there is (let’s face it, you drive your vehicle every day, you know it better than anyone else). It’s worth having your brakes checked for any issues, and if your brake fluid looks low, it’s dark or black in colour or you’re just concerned, booking in for a full service is the best option.
 
These are just a few reasons why you need a service. To book in for yours, or get it scheduled, contact Dan at Satellite Vehicle Services on 07511154846.

Book Your Service