5 signs your car needs to be serviced

While getting your car serviced is not a legal requirement, it can be a great way to ensure your vehicle is in tip-top condition.

What signs mean it’s time to take your car to the garage? Let’s find out.

Find out more about what happens when a car goes in for a service

1. You hear strange noises

Are you hearing any squealing, crunching, or squeaking noises that weren’t there before? Don’t just turn up the radio to mask the noise; it’s time to get booked in for a service.

An irregular noise could be anything from a worn or loose cambelt to an overheating engine. A mechanic can check your car, identify the source of the problem, and put a fix in place.

2. You’re stalling more often than usual

We all stall the car from time to time; we’re only human! However, if you’re finding you’re losing power and stalling your car regularly, it may mean there’s a fault with your vehicle that you need to get checked out.

A failing battery, a crack in your fuel line, or a damaged timing belt can lead to a stalled car.

3. Your car is becoming increasingly harder to steer

If you’re starting to sweat from trying to move your car from one lane to another, it’s vital to get your car in for a service to get the issue fixed. 

The issue could be caused by a power steering fluid leak, a damaged steering rack or a worn-out power steering belt that needs replacing. A mechanic will be able to fix the issue before your car becomes impossible (and dangerous) to drive.

4. You’re seeing smoke

Got an exhaust that’s belching fumes or smoke pouring out of your car bonnet? This could mean a potentially serious issue with your car. 

If you’re starting to get watery eyes at the wheel of your car, it’s important to get booked in for a service as soon as possible.

(Important note: if the smoke is caused by a fire under your bonnet, it’s critical to get out of the car and call 999.)

5. The light pops up on your dashboard

If a spanner icon appears on your dashboard, it’s time to pick up the phone and arrange a service.

New cars don’t need servicing for the first three years. After that, you should have a service done once a year or after 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. The icon will appear as a reminder to get booked in.

The icon may also appear when your car has a specific fault. Don’t ignore it, as it may mean a bigger problem to fix in the long term.

Don’t forget that Ablefit is here for all your car servicing needs. Whether you’re looking for an interim service to keep your car running or a full service before your MOT, we’re here to help. Get in touch today to book your car in with our expert team.