Why should I service my car on it's due date, even if I haven't done the kilometers?

We get asked all the time 'Is it really necessary for me to service my car on it's due date, even if I haven't done the kilometers?" Find out when we chat to Gary Wheeler, our General Manager.

All vehicle manufacturers specify maximum time and distance intervals for servicing, and this can differ slightly from model to model. For example a schedule of every 6 month or 10,000kms, whichever occurs first while the new Range Rover is less often with every 12 months or 15,000kms.

But what if you only travel 6,000kms in 6 months, can't you just bring it in later when you have travelled 10,000kms? We asked Gary Wheeler, our General Manager to explain.

"Generally, people are now travelling less and less between service intervals which means that this question is popping up more and more. Most people understand that the more you drive your vehicle, the more you will wear out things like tyres and brakes proportionately. Unfortunately, engine wear doesn't work in the same way. Your car’s engine is designed to operate at optimal performance when warmed up, there are specific clearances that are at the right levels once the metal has warmed up and expanded. This means that most engine wear occurs within the first few minutes from a cold start."

With this in mind, it is often those short trips that contaminate your engine oil the most, with less than ideal clearances allowing particles past the seals and into the oil. It really degenerates the quality of your engine oil a lot faster than long distance driving. "The engine is the most important thing in your car, without it, you’re stuck. That's why we always recommend servicing your car whether you have travelled the kilometres or not. Your car will not only last longer, but expensive repairs can be avoided with regular maintenance."

Gary and his team of Service Advisors are always happy to discuss servicing and maintenance requirements with any of our guests, so please don't hesitate to give them a call on 04 347 6939.