Even though you may think you are saving money by extending the interval in between basic car services, more than likely you will find yourself spending more on unexpected car repair due to lack of service. Normally, the cost of basic service items, such as oil changes, replacing the air filter, or tire rotations, is much less than unexpected car repair. You may also start to notice some of the following issues:
- Decrease in fuel efficiency.
- Loss of power while accelerating.
- Poor air quality inside your vehicle.
- Unusual noises coming from the engine.
So how often do you need to get your car serviced? Auto technicians used to recommend having a car serviced about every 12 months or 12k miles. Though, in recent years, based on data from 2021, the average number of miles driven in a year has risen to 14k miles. If this is your situation, it would be wise to have an inspection of your car at least every 6 months to make sure it remains in tip-top condition.
To gauge how often do you need to get your car serviced, consider these three factors:
- The actual miles you drive in a year;
- How well you keep up-to-date with the recommended service schedule; and
- The road conditions on which you travel on a regular basis.
Even with today’s technology in vehicles, such as built-in computers and sensors that trigger service alerts, it is vital to know the service guidelines listed in your vehicle owner’s manual. Or, ask your car repair mechanic to keep you informed as to what type of service is needed for your vehicle when it should be done, and how much it will cost.
Remember: During a service, such as an oil change, your auto mechanic can make sure that small issues are taken care of early, lowering the chance of a costly car repair later on.
Looking for quality car repair? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about how often do you need to get your car serviced and to request an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE, and Doniphan, NE.
