One of the questions we hear most often is, “How often do I really need to service my car? Is it that bad if I skip or delay it a few months?” The short answer: Absolutely. While it might seem harmless—your car doesn’t have the luxury of skipping maintenance. Engine oil plays a vital role in keeping everything inside your engine running smoothly, but it doesn’t last forever. After around 10,000km or 12 months, oil begins to degrade, losing its ability to lubricate effectively. This can lead to increased wear, costly repairs, or even total engine failure. And that’s just the oil—other fluids like coolant are just as critical. Regular servicing isn’t just about ticking a box; it’s about protecting your car from serious damage.
What is a service interval?
Car service intervals are usually set at six, nine, or 12 months, depending on the manufacturer’s recommendation. These intervals are designed around how frequently vital fluids and parts need to be checked or replaced. Many modern vehicles are equipped with onboard systems that notify you when a service is due—some even go a step further and send alerts directly to your dealership. In addition to time-based intervals, there are also distance-based guidelines, typically ranging from 5,000 to 15,000 km. You should always service your car based on whichever comes first—time or distance. Keeping up with scheduled servicing is essential not just for your car’s safety and performance, but also to protect your warranty and avoid costly issues down the road.
Logbook Servicing
Logbook servicing is a scheduled maintenance program set by the vehicle manufacturer, outlining when specific parts and systems should be inspected, serviced, or replaced. It’s based on the expected lifespan and performance of key components over time and mileage. While not every visit involves major mechanical work, some services—often called “major services”—are more comprehensive and essential to the car’s long-term health. The logbook acts as a roadmap for both owners and mechanics, making it easy to track upcoming maintenance needs and ensure the vehicle stays in top condition.
Different Service Intervals for Different Cars
How a car is driven can have a greater impact on wear and tear than the number of kilometres on the odometer. Low mileage doesn’t always mean less stress on the vehicle—time and usage patterns matter just as much. Many car components undergo repeated heating and cooling during use, and over time, these heat cycles can lead to wear. For example, a car that’s mostly driven on short trips may experience more wear than one with higher mileage that does longer, consistent drives. Driving conditions also play a role—frequent cornering, rough roads, and stop-start traffic place extra strain on the steering, suspension, and brakes. That’s why sticking to the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals is essential—it helps catch issues early and keeps your car running reliably, regardless of how many kilometres it’s done.
If your local mechanic advises something different from the recommended service schedule, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. Request that they check your logbook to confirm whether any major parts were replaced during your last service. One key factor often overlooked when deciding how frequently to service your car is your driving style. It influences how quickly your engine oil breaks down and how much wear your brakes, timing belt, and other components experience.
On the other hand, someone who regularly drives short city trips, frequently navigates stop-and-go traffic, and carries heavy loads like gym equipment will likely need more frequent servicing—around every six months or less. Ignoring this need can lead to unusual noises, higher breakdown risks, and costly repairs.
Regular servicing is crucial to maintain your vehicle’s reliability and prevent small problems from turning into expensive repairs. Staying on top of your maintenance schedule not only protects your car but also saves you money in the long run. When in doubt, always refer to your handy “How Often Should You Service Your Car” guide for peace of mind.
