If You Can’t Remember Your Last Car Service, You’re Probably Due
Can’t remember the last time your car had a proper service? That’s a red flag. Vehicles don’t have the luxury of “set and forget.” When you put off a service, you’re not just risking a minor issue — you could be setting yourself up for a breakdown that’s expensive, inconvenient, and sometimes dangerous.
Here’s the deal. Car servicing isn’t just about ticking off a box. It’s preventative care. Think of it like brushing your teeth — skip it for too long and you’re looking at problems that take far more effort (and cash) to fix.
Why Regular Car Servicing Actually Matters
You might not notice anything wrong with your car right now. That’s often the problem. Most major issues don’t show obvious signs until they’re already serious.
A service picks up on things before they escalate. Things like:
- Worn brake pads – they don’t squeal until they’re near finished
- Low fluids – coolant, oil, transmission, and brake fluid all keep things running smoothly
- Tyre wear and alignment – poor grip or uneven wear means safety risks and extra costs
- Battery health – weak batteries often die without warning
- Suspension issues – rough rides or extra tyre wear can stem from this
In short, a car service keeps your vehicle safe, efficient, and performing the way it should. It also protects the value of your car. If you ever plan to sell or trade it in, a well-documented service history helps you get the best price.
The Hidden Costs of Skipping a Service
It’s tempting to delay a service when your car feels fine. However, issues that go unnoticed can snowball quickly.
Take engine oil, for example. When it breaks down or runs low, it can cause metal components to grind. That leads to expensive engine damage that would’ve been completely avoidable with a simple oil change.
The same goes for your brakes. Pads are cheap to replace. Let them wear too thin, and you’ll damage the rotors — a much pricier fix.
Skipping services can also reduce fuel efficiency. Dirty filters, misaligned tyres, or even old spark plugs can all lead to your car guzzling more petrol than necessary.
And then there’s the worst-case scenario — breakdowns. Being stuck on the side of the road or needing a tow isn’t just a hassle. It can cost you a lot more than a scheduled service.
There’s No Universal Schedule – But You Still Need One
The exact timing of services depends on your car’s make, model, and age. Some newer vehicles have service indicators, but that doesn’t mean you can ignore the basics.
As a rough rule:
- Every 6 months or 10,000 km – whichever comes first, for most standard petrol vehicles
- Every 3–4 months – for older cars, high-mileage vehicles, or those in rough conditions
- Annually – at the absolute minimum if your car is rarely driven
This is assuming regular usage. If you’re using your car for towing, long commutes, or driving in harsh conditions (like dust, salt, or stop-start traffic), you’ll need more frequent checks.
It’s not just about the odometer. Time also plays a role. Oil and other fluids degrade over time, even if you haven’t racked up many kilometres.
Watch Out for These Signs You’re Overdue
Even if your car still runs, there are a few tell-tale signs that it’s overdue for a service:
- Rough idling or sluggish performance
- Unusual noises when braking, accelerating, or turning
- Dashboard warning lights that don’t go away
- Vibrations at certain speeds
- Difficulty starting, especially in the cold
- Noticeable drop in fuel efficiency
If you’ve noticed any of these, don’t brush them off. They’re not just annoying quirks; they’re often early signs of something that needs fixing before it becomes a full-blown problem.
Don’t Wait for Something to Break
One of the most common reasons people delay servicing is time. It feels like a hassle to book it in, drop the car off, and organise how you’ll get around in the meantime.
But the truth is, a standard service doesn’t take long. Many are done in just a few hours. And if that time investment saves you thousands in future repairs, it’s a no-brainer.
Regular servicing also makes life easier in the long run. Mechanics can flag what’s wearing out or due soon, which gives you time to plan (and budget) rather than get hit with unexpected costs.
What to Expect From a Basic Service
Not every service is the same, but most include some key checks and top-ups. Here’s what typically gets looked at in a standard logbook service:
- Engine oil and filter replacement
- Brake inspection and adjustment
- Tyre pressure check and tread inspection
- Fluid top-ups (coolant, brake fluid, windscreen washer)
- Battery test
- Visual safety inspection (belts, hoses, lights, exhaust)
Depending on the schedule, some services will include more comprehensive checks like transmission fluid, cabin air filter, spark plugs, or suspension components. Your mechanic should let you know what’s included and what’s next.
Not Sure When It Was Last Done?
If you can’t find your last service record, assume it’s due. Don’t wait for confirmation. Book it in and ask your mechanic to start a fresh logbook if needed.
From there, make it easy for future-you. Stick to a service schedule that suits your driving habits, and keep a simple record — even just a note in your phone or calendar reminder. It’ll save headaches down the track.
Think of It Like Insurance for Your Car
Servicing isn’t a luxury; it’s essential maintenance. It keeps your car safe, reliable, and running well. Most importantly, it helps prevent costly repairs that could’ve been avoided.
If it’s been a while, or you honestly can’t remember the last service, take that as your sign. Waiting won’t make the problem go away, but a quick check-up might stop one from starting.
Get it done, tick it off, and then enjoy peace of mind every time you turn the key.