When is the Right Time to Get Your Car Service?

Regular car maintenance is an important investment to ensure the performance, safety, and longevity of your vehicle. Timely car servicing not only keeps the engine optimized but also prevents greater damage in the future. In this article, we will discuss when is the right time to have your car service, what needs to be checked, and how the latest technology such as TransTRACK‘s Vehicle Maintenance System (VMS) can help you manage your vehicle maintenance more efficiently.

What are the different types of car services?

There are several types of car servicing that are performed to ensure that the vehicle’s performance and reliability remain optimal. Here are some common types of car servicing:

Light Service

Light servicing usually includes:

• Oil change: Changing the engine oil and oil filter regularly keeps the engine performance optimized. It also helps prevent engine damage due to poor lubrication.
• Filter check: Checking and replacing the air filter and fuel filter improves fuel efficiency and engine performance. A clean filter prevents dirt from entering the engine.
• Fluid check: Checking and refilling coolant, brake, transmission and power steering fluids keeps the systems working properly. Adequate fluids prevent overheating and other mechanical problems.

Major Service

A major service is a thorough examination that includes:

• Thorough inspection: Checking the entire vehicle system ensures that no issues are overlooked. This includes checking the electrical, fuel and cooling.
• Replacement of essential parts: Replacing worn parts such as spark plugs, timing belts, and brake pads prevents greater damage. Timely replacement ensures the vehicle operates safely.
• Calibration: Aligning components such as wheels and sensors ensures the vehicle runs straight and efficiently. Calibration also improves driving comfort and control.

Periodic Service

Periodic servicing is performed based on mileage or time, in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. This service includes:

• Oil and filter changes: Changing the oil and filter regularly at the recommended intervals maintains engine health. It also reduces the risk of damage due to inadequate lubrication.
• Major system checks: Checking the brake, steering, suspension and cooling systems ensures they are all working properly. This helps detect problems early and prevent system failure.
• Regular parts replacement: Replacing parts such as air filters, fuel filters, and spark plugs according to the manufacturer’s recommendations maintains vehicle performance. Regular replacement also ensures fuel efficiency and cleaner emissions.

Performing regular servicing according to the recommended types and intervals can help maintain vehicle performance, prevent greater damage, and ensure safe driving.

When is the right time to have your car serviced?

For those of you who are still confused about when is the right time to have your car serviced, you can follow these times to perform proper maintenance:

Based on Mileage

Generally, minor services such as oil changes and filter checks are performed every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers. Major servicing is usually scheduled every 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers.

Based on Time

In addition to mileage, servicing also needs to be done based on time. Light servicing is usually done every 6 months, while major servicing is done every 1 to 2 years, depending on the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Symptoms and Signs

Have it serviced immediately if symptoms such as strange noises, decreased performance, or warning lights on the dashboard appear. Changes in vehicle performance often indicate the need for maintenance.

TransTRACK’s Vehicle Maintenance System (VMS)

TransTRACK’s VMS automatically schedules services based on mileage and time, sends reminders and notifications, stores maintenance history, manages spare parts inventory, and provides in-depth reports and analysis. This ensures the fleet is always in optimal condition, reducing the risk of forgetfulness and improving operational efficiency.

What is checked during a car service?

During a car service check, there are several parts that will be checked including:

Oil and Filter Check

The engine oil and oil filter are checked and replaced if necessary. The air filter and fuel filter are also checked to ensure that there are no impurities that hinder the engine’s performance.

Brake and Suspension System Check

The brake system is checked to ensure the discs, pads, and brake fluid are in good condition. The suspension system is also checked to ensure the comfort and stability of the vehicle.

Engine Calibration and Electrical Check

The engine is calibrated to ensure optimal performance, including ignition timing and fuel mixture adjustments. The electrical system is checked to ensure the battery, alternator and sensors are working properly.

Replacement of Worn or Damaged Parts

Parts that experience wear or damage, such as spark plugs, timing belts, and brake pads, are replaced to prevent further damage and maintain optimal vehicle performance.

Regular car servicing is key to maintaining the performance and longevity of your vehicle. By ensuring oil and filters are checked, brake and suspension systems are checked, engines are calibrated, and worn or damaged parts are replaced, you can prevent greater damage and maintain safe driving.

To make managing your vehicle maintenance easier, use TransTRACK’s Vehicle Maintenance System (VMS). The VMS automatically schedules services, sends reminders, stores maintenance history, manages parts inventory, and provides in-depth reports. With TransTRACK’s VMS, your fleet is always in optimal condition, efficient, and ready to operate. Use TransTRACK’s VMS immediately and feel the difference!