Your Guide to the Different Types of Car Service

Regular car servicing is pivotal in ensuring your vehicle’s longevity, safety, and performance. Understanding the various types of services available can help you make informed decisions about your car’s maintenance.

At Great Lakes Auto Centre, we believe that all drivers should understand the essentials of car servicing, from logbook services to specific system checks.

Understanding Car Services

Car maintenance encompasses a range of services tailored to keep your vehicle in top-notch condition. For example, logbook servicing adheres to the manufacturer’s guidelines, ensuring your car meets warranty requirements and runs efficiently. It’s a comprehensive check-up that follows a set schedule, covering everything from engine oil changes to brake inspections.
General servicing, on the other hand, is more flexible and often includes oil changes, fluid top-ups, and basic safety checks. This service is ideal for vehicles outside of warranty or when specific issues arise.
Then there are specific services, focusing on particular components like the air conditioning system, brakes, electrical systems, and Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS). Other specific services might include tyre alignment, transmission checks, and exhaust system repairs, catering to every aspect of vehicle maintenance.

Log Book Servicing

Logbook servicing is a preventative maintenance program set by the vehicle’s manufacturer, detailing a comprehensive checklist of inspections, maintenance tasks, and replacements to be performed at specific intervals. This approach ensures your car remains in peak condition, preserving its warranty and enhancing safety. Following the logbook schedule helps identify potential issues early, preventing costly repairs down the line.

The benefits of logbook servicing extend beyond maintaining warranty compliance; it also ensures your vehicle’s resale value remains high. By using genuine parts and adhering to the manufacturer’s specifications, logbook servicing provides peace of mind that your car is receiving the best possible care tailored to its specific needs.

General Servicing

General servicing, while not as regimented as logbook servicing, plays a crucial role in a vehicle’s upkeep. It typically encompasses oil and filter changes, fluid level checks and top-ups, and a general safety inspection of brakes, tyres, and lights. This type of service is adaptable, focusing on the vehicle’s current needs rather than following a predefined schedule, making it ideal for cars outside of their warranty period or for owners looking for a cost-effective maintenance solution.
The flexibility of general servicing allows mechanics to address the immediate needs of your vehicle, which can vary based on age, condition, and usage. It’s an opportunity for a professional to catch minor issues before they escalate into major problems, ultimately saving you time and money. Regular general services help maintain the performance and safety of your car, ensuring it runs smoothly and reliably.

Specific Services

Beyond general and logbook servicing, specific services focus on particular components or systems within your vehicle, ensuring everything functions at its best. Below are some of the more common specialised services that may be crucial for maintaining the optimal performance, safety, and comfort of your car.

Brake Service

This involves inspecting the brake pads, discs, and fluid to ensure your car can stop effectively and safely. It may include replacing worn pads or discs and bleeding or changing the brake fluid.

AC Service

An air conditioning service checks for leaks and recharges the refrigerant, ensuring your system cools efficiently. It also includes cleaning the air filter to maintain air quality inside your vehicle.

Electrical System Service

An electrical service addresses issues with your car’s electrical components, including the battery, alternator, and starter motor, ensuring reliable starts and proper functioning of electrical features.

ADAS Calibration

Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems require precise calibration to function correctly. This service ensures systems like adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking are accurately aligned and responsive.

European Car Service

European vehicles often require specialised knowledge due to their unique design and technology. Our European car servicing caters to the specific needs of brands like BMW, Mercedes, and Audi, ensuring they receive the correct parts and expertise for their maintenance.

Forster’s Car Service Specialists

Regular servicing, tailored to your car’s specific needs, is key to its longevity and safety. Great Lakes Auto Centre specialises in comprehensive car care, from general maintenance to specialised services. Visit us for professional servicing that keeps your vehicle in peak condition. To schedule your service or for any queries, reach out to us on (02) 6590 1375 or fill out our contact form today.

FAQs

How often should you service your car?

Your car should generally be serviced every 12 months or 15,000 kilometres, whichever comes first, though this can vary based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.

How much does a car service cost?

The cost of a car service can vary widely, typically ranging from $150 to over $500, depending on the type of service (general, logbook, or specific) and the vehicle’s make and model.

How long does a car service take?

A standard service might take between 1 to 3 hours, while more comprehensive services, like a logbook or major service, could require a full day, depending on the specific checks and repairs needed.

Is it necessary to service my car at the dealership to maintain the warranty?

No, you can service your car at any licensed mechanic or service centre without voiding the warranty, as long as the service meets the manufacturer’s requirements.

Can I perform car servicing myself?

While basic maintenance like oil and filter changes can be done at home, professional servicing is recommended for comprehensive checks, especially for tasks requiring specialised knowledge or tools.