Universal Tyres & Auto Centre has a proud history of providing the Leeds area with a first class range of servicing, for everything from tyres and brakes to air conditioning and beyond.

So, whether your vehicle requires a new clutch, exhaust, or any other part necessary to make it completely legally roadworthy, we are here to help. For any further information, or to discuss your options with one of our qualified technicians, please don’t hesitate to give us a call

Car Service Explained

When a car is designed, the manufacturer sets out a service schedule for the car, which they believe will keep it running reliably and safely.

Typically a manufacturer service schedule consists of 65-85 checks (see table of examples later) and 5 – 15 changes to your car. It will be slightly different for each car, depending on the engine, transmission, age and mileage. In order that the original manufacturer warranty is not invalidated, this service schedule must be adhered to, while the car is under warranty.

As well as the services being very similar, there is an enormous amount of overlap between any given service and the MOT test. MOT Angel estimate that 75-85% of a typical service is covered by the MOT test.

So for cars that are out of their original manufacturer warranty, garages design their own services, which broadly match the following five categories, that get more expensive with each step:

• Oil & Filter Change
• Basic or Interim Service
• Full Service
• Major Service
• Manufacturer Service

Comprehensive list of dashboard lights

Oil & Filter Change

An oil and filter change is one of the most crucial parts a service and is one of the few things included in all services. It helps to ensure your car continues to run reliably and helps fuel efficiency.

Garages have a ‘duty of care’ to customers when they work on their car. So all reputable garages will complete a Visual Safety Inspection when they work on a car, which identify any obvious safety concerns with a car, even if it is just booked in for an oil and filter change. But they will not be able to complete a full brake check with this kind of service and that is, in MOT Angel’s view, a crucial check to have at least once a year.

Basic or Interim Service

Each type of service builds on the previous level. So a Basic service typically includes an oil and filter change and visual inspection.

But it usually adds a top up of all the key fluids in the engine bay (washer fluid, brake fluid, anti-freeze, steering fluid) and a check of up to 35 key components.

A good garage, performing this kind of service, will usually check the brakes and manufacturer guidelines so that they can recommend any additional work that your car may need. Sadly not all garages do though.

What are the advantages of synthetic oils?

Synthetics and semi-synthetics give improved performance at high temperatures and support extended standard drain intervals. They are the preferred choice for high performance cars or for drivers who value long life/durability.

Your vehicle handbook will specify the grade/type of oil to be used based on durability/extreme environment testing by the manufacturer.

If synthetic oils are recommended then that is what you should use.

Mixing mineral and synthetics is not recommended, nor is switching to synthetic oils unless the vehicle handbook specifies that you may do so.

If the manufacturer has confirmed that synthetic oil is suitable for your vehicle and you intend to switch then you must make sure that the engine is drained fully of mineral oil first.

The owner’s manual that comes with every vehicle specifies how often a service is required. As a rule of thumb all vehicles should be serviced at least once a year and/or every 12,000 miles. Regular servicing is vital to the prolonged lifespan of your vehicle and will save you money in the long run.

Air Conditioning Servicing

Regular servicing is important for health and to maintain the system working effectively. Up to 15% of the refrigerant gas will be lost annually.

• Run your air conditioning at least once a week throughout the year.
• Have the refrigerant gas checked regularly and topped up to manufacturers’ recommended levels.
• Help improve hygiene and air quality with a regular cabin filter change, as it can become blocked with pollen.
• A regular air duct clean helps remove the bacteria and fungi that can cause unpleasant odours.
• Service air-conditioning units every 30,000 miles or two years to avoid costly repairs.