How Often Should I Service My Car?
How often UK drivers should service their car — manufacturer schedules, mileage intervals and what happens if you skip a service.
Last updated 6 July 2026 · 5 min read
Part of our guide to How to Choose a Garage
Follow your manufacturer's schedule
Every car has a recommended service interval set by the manufacturer — usually based on mileage, time, or whichever comes first. Check your handbook or the service schedule sticker in the door frame. Typical intervals are every 12 months or 10,000–12,000 miles, but modern cars with long-life oil may go further.
Mileage vs time
If you drive few miles, you still need an annual service. Oil and fluids degrade with time even when the car sits still. High-mileage drivers may hit the mileage limit before the annual date — book when whichever limit comes first.
Interim vs full service
- Interim service — oil and filter change, fluid top-ups and basic checks; often at 6 months or 6,000 miles
- Full service — everything in an interim plus air filter, spark plugs (where applicable), brake checks and more
- Major service — larger items such as cambelt replacement at set intervals (check your handbook)
See what happens during a vehicle service for a breakdown of what each visit usually includes.
Watch for warning signs between services
Do not wait for the next scheduled service if something feels wrong. Unusual noises, warning lights or changes in how the car drives mean you should book sooner. Our guide on signs your car needs a service covers the common symptoms.
Keep a record
A complete service history helps when you sell the car and proves you have looked after it. Most garages now update a digital service history linked to your registration. When choosing where to service, see how to choose a garage.
Frequently asked questions
- Is servicing the same as an MOT?
- No. An MOT is a legal safety inspection; a service is maintenance recommended by the manufacturer to keep the engine and components in good condition. You need both — see our MOT explained guide for the difference.
- What happens if I miss a service?
- Missing one service is unlikely to cause immediate damage, but oil degrades, filters clog and small problems go unnoticed. Over time that increases wear, reduces fuel economy and can affect warranty claims on newer cars.
- Should I follow the garage schedule or the manufacturer schedule?
- Follow the manufacturer's schedule in your handbook or service booklet. Garages may recommend more frequent checks for high-mileage or older vehicles — that is reasonable, but the handbook is the baseline.
Related guides
How to Choose a Garage
A plain-English guide for drivers on what to look for when choosing a garage — qualifications, reviews, pricing and red flags.
Signs Your Car Needs a Service
Warning signs that your car needs a service soon — dashboard lights, unusual noises, poor performance and when to book without waiting.
What Happens During a Vehicle Service
What a typical car service includes — oil change, filters, checks and the difference between interim, full and major services.
Digital Service History Explained
What digital service history is, how garages update it and why it matters when you sell your car or claim warranty work.
MOT Explained
What the MOT test is, what it checks, when yours is due and what pass, fail and advisory mean for UK drivers.
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