Servicing - what can we do?

Full car servicing – oil and filter change, fluid top-ups, and 50-point safety check.

Value add: Regular servicing improves fuel economy and helps maintain your manufacturer warranty and resale value.

Annual service – complete inspection of engine, brakes, steering, suspension, cooling, and lights.

Did you know? A full service every 12 months can catch hidden issues early, saving on major repairs later.

Engine oil and filter change – protects your engine and helps meet emissions standards.

Did you know? Clean oil protects moving parts and keeps emissions lower, which can help your vehicle pass its M.O.T.

Air filter & cabin filter replacement – improves engine breathing and interior air quality.

Value add: Fresh filters improve engine breathing, boost fuel efficiency and keep cabin air clean.

Spark plug or glow plug replacement – for smooth starting, better fuel economy and lower emissions.

Tip: Healthy plugs ensure smooth starting and better combustion, reducing misfires and emissions.

Fluid top-ups and changes – brake, coolant, gearbox and power steering fluids checked/replaced.

Did you know? Old brake fluid absorbs moisture, lowering boiling point and risking brake fade - most manufacturers recommend changing every 2 years.

Brake pad & disc inspection – visual and thickness checks with replacement if necessary.

Value add: Early pad replacement prevents costly disc damage and keeps stopping distances short.

Suspension & steering checks – identify worn bushes, ball joints or leaks.

Tip: Detecting worn bushes or ball joints early prevents uneven tyre wear and improves ride comfort.

Exhaust and emissions inspection – check for leaks or corrosion that might trigger an M.O.T fail.

Did you know? Even a small exhaust leak can lead to an MOT failure and lower fuel efficiency.

Battery health test & charging check – prevent non-start issues and verify alternator output.

Value add: We spot weak batteries before winter cold drains the battery (the cold weather affects a battery by slowing down it's chemical reactions - the cold reduces the battery's performance and capacity).

Tyre tread depth & pressure checks – ensure tyres meet the UK legal minimum of 1.6 mm across 3/4 of

Tip: Correctly inflated tyres with at least 3mm of tread maintains wet braking and fuel economy.

Lighting and electrical system check – lights, washers and horn to ensure they're M.O.T complaint.

Did you know? A single blown bulb or faulty fuse is one of the most common M.O.T failure causes - our check keeps you compliant.

Wiper blade & washer system check – screen wash, ensure clear vision and pass M.O.T visibility stand

Value add: Clear vision in all weathers helps you pass the M.O.T visibility requirement and stay safer.

Timing belt/chain inspection (as per schedule) – vital for engine protection.

Tip: A worn belt or chain can cause major engine damage; timely checks avoid costly repairs. A timing belt or chain can snap when not replaced at correct intervals - causing further costly engine damage/failure.

Service reminder reset & service book updates – these keep manufacturer warranties and resale value

Did you know? Keeping a full service record boosts resale value and reassures future buyers.

Got a Question About Servicing?

Please reach us at craggsrecovery@gmail.com or give us a call 01913385383 if you cannot find an answer to your question.

How often should I service my car?

Most manufacturers recommend a service once every 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. High-mileage drivers may need an interim service every 6 months. Each car can differ, so you should follow your manufacturer's specific guidelines.

What’s the difference between an interim, full and major service?

An interim service covers vital checks and fluid top-ups. A full service adds more detailed inspections and part replacements. A major service includes everything in a full service plus additional items like brake fluid or coolant change.

Do I need a service if my car passed its M.O.T?

Yes. An M.O.T is a safety and emissions test, not a maintenance check. Regular servicing keeps your car running efficiently and prevents unexpected breakdowns.

How long does a car service take?

An interim service usually takes around 1–2 hours, while a full service may take 3–4 hours, depending on the vehicle and any extra work required.

How much does a car service cost?

Prices vary by vehicle type and the level of service. We’ll always give a clear quote up front and discuss any extra work before proceeding.

Will servicing keep my manufacturer warranty valid?

Yes - when done to the manufacturer’s schedule and using quality parts. We update your service record to protect warranty and resale value. If required - genuine parts can be used upon request.

What happens if I skip a service?

Missing services can shorten engine life, increase fuel consumption, and raise the risk of expensive breakdowns.

What do you check in a full service?

Engine oil and filter, brakes, suspension, steering, tyres, lights, battery, cooling system and more.

Can you reset my service light?

Yes. After every service we reset the service reminder and update your paper service record.

Do you use genuine or equivalent parts?

We fit manufacturer-approved or high-quality equivalent parts, keeping your warranty and performance intact.

Is a pre-M.O.T service worth it?

Definitely. A service before your M.O.T helps prevent failures caused by simple issues like worn brakes, low fluids or faulty lights. Please note it is not a guaranteed M.O.T pass.

Can I wait while my car is serviced?

Yes. Many services can be completed the same day, and we’ll give you an estimated time when you book.

Is a Service the same as an M.O.T?

An MOT is a legal annual safety and emissions test required for most cars over 3 years old. It checks roadworthiness (brakes, lights, tyres, emissions, etc.) but doesn’t replace parts or change fluids. A service is regular maintenance - oil and filter changes, full inspections and preventive repair - to keep your vehicle running efficiently and avoid breakdowns. Many drivers book a service alongside their MOT, but they are two separate checks.