Car Service Schedule Explained: What Is Checked at Each Interval

Regular servicing keeps your car safe, efficient and reliable, and protects your warranty. Intervals differ by model, so always follow your owner’s manual and service booklet. This guide explains the typical pattern so you know what to expect.

Typical service pattern

Many cars follow a time or distance rule, whichever comes first, commonly every 6 to 12 months or 5,000 to 15,000 km depending on the model. A first service within the first month or first few thousand kilometres is common. Check your car’s schedule.

What is usually checked or replaced

Item	Typical timing
Engine oil and oil filter	Every service
Air filter	Inspected at each service, replaced as per schedule or dust conditions
Cabin (AC) filter	About once a year or as per manual
Spark plugs (petrol)	As per manual, often after several tens of thousands of km
Fuel filter	As per manual
Brake fluid	Typically every two to three years
Coolant	As per manual, often after a few years
Transmission fluid	As per manual and gearbox type
Brake pads and discs	Inspected, replaced when worn
Timing belt (if fitted)	At the manufacturer’s stated interval

Checks done at most services

• Fluid levels: engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid.
• Tyres: pressure, wear, rotation, alignment and balancing when needed. See our tyre care guide.
• Battery and terminals. See car battery problems.
• Lights, wipers, horn and warning lights.
• Suspension, steering and underbody inspection.
• Air conditioning performance.

Electric cars

EVs skip engine oil, spark plugs and exhaust but still need tyre, brake fluid, coolant, cabin filter and suspension checks, plus software updates. See how electric cars work.

Authorised vs independent workshops

Authorised centres use genuine parts and maintain the service record needed for warranty. Reputable independent workshops can cost less once the warranty ends. Keep every invoice either way, as a full service history helps resale value.

How to avoid unnecessary extras

• Ask for the job card with every item listed and its price.
• Compare the suggested work with the service schedule in the manual.
• Ask to see the worn parts they say need replacing.
• Get a second opinion for expensive repairs.
• Decline optional treatments you do not need.

Do some checks yourself between services

Once a month, check oil and coolant levels as shown in our home check guide, check tyre pressure, and make sure lights and wipers work. Learn what the dashboard warning lights mean.

Frequently asked questions

Will missing a service void my warranty?

Skipping scheduled services can affect warranty claims. Check your warranty terms.

How much does a service cost?

It varies by model and city. Ask the service centre for an estimate and include it in your running-cost calculation.