Why you shouldn't skip your first car service
Book your car service
Most people buy a new car to avoid unexpected breakdowns, benefit from a long warranty and peace of mind. However, a new car warranty will be invalidated if you don't maintain the vehicle in accordance with the terms of the warranty and the manufacturer's recommendations
What maintenance does a new car need?
You may imagine that a new car will be trouble-free and need little to no attention to keep it in showroom condition, but this is far from the truth. Instead, new cars need regular maintenance to keep them in top condition as their mechanical parts settle in. Failure to do so may set you up for trouble in the longer term. This is why manufacturers specify a car service schedule for a new car.
A first car service in the UK usually occurs at 12,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, and at this point, a trained mechanic, such as those employed by Protyre will inspect the vehicle thoroughly to ensure that it is running as it ought to and that it is safe for continued use.
The mechanic will change the oil and replace the oil and air filters. They will check the condition of the tyres, brakes, suspension, steering, lights, wipers and battery. Some manufacturers will specify additional checks in addition to those already listed, so you should always consult your vehicle handbook prior to booking a service so that you understand what components and systems will be inspected and potentially replaced during the car's service.
The risks of skipping a first car service
There are two main risks that you need to consider should you fail to book your new car in for a service at the specified intervals. These are:
1. Safety failures.
If the vehicle is not inspected by an expert at the specified service intervals, there is a chance that a component could fail without warning. This could either cause a vehicle breakdown, which will be costlier to repair than the service would have been, or, in the worst case scenario, you or another road user could be injured. If this happens and the vehicle is deemed to have been unroadworthy at the time of the accident, your insurance may not pay out, and you may be liable for costs to the third party [1].
2. Voided warranty.
New vehicles are sold with a warranty which protects you against manufacturing defects, design faults or inadequate materials. However, this warranty only applies if you abide by its terms and conditions, which include the need to maintain the car in a roadworthy condition. This means having it serviced at the recommended intervals, replacing component parts such as tyres as needed and addressing any defects as quickly as possible. If you do not abide by these terms, the warranty may be declared void, and you would have to pick up the costs of any repairs that would otherwise have been performed for free under the warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions
A first car service may be fairly basic, noting that the vehicle should not be
subject to significant wear and tear, and this is reflected in the price, with most first services costing less than £100. However, premium cars, large vehicles and those doing high miles may require a more comprehensive service, which could cost over £300. Always consult your manufacturer's handbook to determine the type of service your vehicle needs and discuss those requirements with your chosen garage.
No, a service is completely different to an MOT. An MOT is not needed on a new car until it has been registered on the road for 3 years. A service aims to keep your vehicle in top condition, while an MOT tests that key safety elements are in suitable condition, but it by no means covers all mechanical components.
A service fee will include the cost of most replacement components, such as oil and air filters, but you will be required to fund additional wear and tear parts, such as tyres and brake pads, if these are found to be worn or defective.