Category: Servicing

Is the service history for your car important?

Written by Declan
You should always get your car serviced regularly in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines to get it running as efficiently as possible. Some cars have long life service schedules and others are shorter meaning you will need to check the plan for your individual make and model of car, not just assume it is the same as a previous car you owned. Having the service history for a car can also make it more saleable and may mean you get a better price for it, especially if it has been done by the main dealer. Along with ensuring that you have the service book and that it is stamped every time you have a service done you should also try and keep receipts for other work you may have had...
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How to check your car oil

Written by Declan
All cars need oil to run the engine. The oil used is specifically designed for use in a car engine and it varies depending on what engine you have, so always be sure to check the required oil before adding it to the sump. You can check the oil level in your car by checking the dip stick. This is a stick that shows you the level of oil and to check it you need to remove it when the car engine has not been running (engine is cold) and the car is parked on a flat surface. Wipe the stick and then push it firmly down in to the hole. After a few seconds remove the stick and look to see where the level is. If the level is...
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Keeping up with car services

Written by Declan
A car service can cover a number of things depending on what car it is, the age and mileage. Many older cars are recommended to be serviced once a year or every ten thousand miles (whichever comes first), but some newer models now have long life servicing meaning they only need to be done every 20,000 miles or two years. When a car is still within its manufacturer’s warranty, the servicing is essential to ensuring the warranty is valid as if it is not done on time or missed completely, this can effective void the warranty. Some manufacturers also stipulate that the service must be carried out by a main dealership. Costs of services vary depending on where you have it done and which service is due. Most cars require...
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Caring for your catalytic converter

Written by Declan
Catalytic converters are fitted as part of many cars exhaust systems. The job of the catalytic converter is to reduce the emission of pollutants caused by incomplete combustion in the engine by means of a chemical reaction. They commonly contain a catalyst (a material that facilitates a reaction without being used up in the reaction) made of precious metals such as platinum and are therefore quite expensive. Un-burnt fuel passing through the engine into the exhaust can damage the catalytic converter so it’s important to avoid this if possible. Certain fuel additives may cause damage so always consult the manufacturer’s instructions before using them. First off, you should keep your car regularly serviced and don’t ignore ECU warning lights as a poorly running engine can cause damage to the converter....
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To service or not to service that is the question.

Written by Declan
So it’s time to have your car serviced again but you are on a budget and therefore looking for ways to keep the cost down, it may be worth trying a local garage rather than the main dealership. However be aware that if your car is under guarantee or warranty having it serviced elsewhere could cause major problems and even void it completely. Another option is simply to prepare your vehicle as thoroughly as you can beforehand. You could use a guide on the internet to find out what the service will entail and find out which parts you’d be able to do yourself such as topping up your anti freeze or changing the oil. Always remember to check the conditions of your warranty before carrying out any work yourself...
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