A car is likely to be one of the biggest expenses you will ever face. Aside from the cost of purchasing your vehicle, there are also MOT, petrol and car insurance expenses to think of, not to mention the cost of repairs and general maintenance. With so much money spent on a vehicle each year, you can easily find yourself asking whether servicing your car is one cost too far.
Servicing saves money
The average British person is thought to spend upwards of £700 on car maintenance every year; however, you can minimise the overall cost by servicing your car on an annual basis. Failing to service your car regularly may save you cash in the short term but won’t protect you against car problems that could have been nipped in the bud if found early enough.
Allowing vehicle issues to progress can be a costly thing. As part of a service, your car’s oil is changed, which can prevent engine trouble. Should you need a new engine, this could cost thousands of pounds to replace. Filters are also replaced, helping fuel efficiency and saving you money in the long run at the petrol pumps.
Vehicle safety
Aside from adding longevity to your vehicle’s life, servicing is important for vehicle safety. As part of a vehicle’s service, essential checks are made on a vehicle’s braking system, steering and wheel alignment. It goes without saying that these are vital factors in vehicle safety – should any of these not operate properly, you risk a potentially dangerous driving situation. Ideally, services should be planned at the mid-point between your MOTs to ensure that your vehicle is checked for safety on a regular basis.
Some garages, such as Gloucester MOT and service specialist http://swiftfit.uk.com/gloucester-mot/, provide both car maintenance options from one place for added convenience.
Maintaining value
Good vehicle maintenance can also have a positive effect when it comes to selling your vehicle. Aside from the peace of mind that you are selling a vehicle that is roadworthy, you are more likely to receive a better return for your vehicle. Having a complete service history shows you have looked after your car, which gives buyers a perceived idea of quality and often increases the price when the time comes to sell.