Interim Service

An interim service is a routine maintenance check performed between annual full services, primarily designed for high-mileage drivers or those who frequently make short "stop-start" trips. It focuses on the vehicle's most essential safety and performance components to prevent minor issues from becoming costly repairs.

Key Details

Recommended Interval: Every 6 months or 6,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Duration: Typically takes 1 to 2 hours Unlike an MOT, it is not a legal requirement, but it is highly recommended for maintaining vehicle safety and resale value.

 

Full Service

A full service is a comprehensive annual maintenance check for a vehicle, typically involving over 50–80 individual inspections.

Recommended intervals: 12 months or 12,000 miles (whichever comes first), this service includes:

Fluid Changes & Top-ups: Replacement of engine oil and oil filter, along with top-ups for coolant, brake fluid, and screen wash.

Filter Replacements: Changing the air filter and often cabin/pollen 

Mechanical Inspections: Thorough checks of the brakes (pads and discs), steering, suspension, exhaust, and drive belts.

Safety & Electrical: Testing the battery health, external lights, seatbelts, and windscreen wipers.

Duration: Usually takes between 3 and 4 hours to complete.

 

Major Service

A major service is the most comprehensive vehicle maintenance package available, typically recommended every 24 months or 24,000 miles. It includes all the checks of a full service but adds the replacement of long-life components and deeper system inspections.

Key Components of a Major Service

Fluid Replacements: In addition to engine oil and filter, a major service typically includes a brake fluid flush and replacement, which is critical as brake fluid absorbs moisture over time.

Filter Replacements: Includes the engine air filter, cabin/pollen filter, and often the fuel filter (especially for diesel vehicles).

Ignition System: For petrol cars, spark plugs are usually replaced.

Brake System: A more intensive inspection than standard services, often involving removing the road wheels to check the condition of hub faces, brake pipes, and the brake servo.

Drivetrain & Transmission: Inspection of the gearbox, clutch operation, and transmission fluid.

Engine & Cooling: Detailed checks of the radiator, coolant hoses, and auxiliary drive belts. It also includes a check of the timing belt replacement schedule.

Diagnostics: Many providers perform a full diagnostic scan of the engine management system to identify hidden fault codes.

Duration: Expect a major service to take approximately 4 hours due to the depth of the inspections.

Frequency: It is usually alternated with a standard "full" or "interim" service every other year.