I can actually hear you all moan from the other side of the computer as I mention the dreaded regular car service. Whether it’s life just getting in the way or you’re as terrified for the bill as you are of the dentist, that visit to the mechanics is always one of distress. But it truly is a case of “better safe than sorry”. Maintaining logbook servicing is one of the most important things you can do when it comes to car maintenance. Regular checks will keep your car in order, and also allow you to avoid those hefty bills come major servicing and surprise problems.
Remember the importance of keeping up-to-date by sticking with these cardinal servicing rules.
It’s an expensive asset, treat it properly
When you finally save the money or are approved for vehicle finance, you are then the owner of one very expensive asset. Besides owning a house (or various luxury items), a car is one of a person’s most expensive purchases. So it’s undeniable that you don’t want it to break down due to your own doings – specifically neglecting your logbook servicing.
Keep up-to-date on all things servicing related and you’ll hopefully avoid an $800 bill at the end of your service… which you happen to be 18 months late for.
If your car is playing up, get it checked
Now this rule obviously doesn’t reflect regular car servicing, but it is imperative that you get any glitches checked before they become BIG problems. Unfortunately little problems often become big as time goes on, and turning up your radio to drown out the sound certainly isn’t a fix. Regular servicing is a preventative measure, but there is always a possibility of random problems. Immediate car repair is your best answer – I’m sure you’ll be thanking me later.
Reduce unnecessary wear and tear
Avoiding a service may see your car slowly deteriorate in front of your very own eyes. An excessive stress can be put on your vehicle if moving parts are not lubricated – something that is checked and restored in your service. Ultimately, wear and tear is imminent if you do not stick to your logbook servicing and your vehicle will begin to fail on you before you can say, “Who needs regular servicing?”
Re-sale price depreciates dramatically
You may not have noticed, but one of the most important points in the car classifieds is, “regular logbook servicing”. You’ll be surprised how many people don’t keep up-to-date with it and in the long run, it’s to their detriment. When it’s time to upgrade and sell your beloved car, buyers will not be very impressed at all if they come to find that their logbook has fallen dramatically behind. This, in turn, will make your car harder to sell and therefore reduce your selling price. Quite honestly, it’s just not worth it.
So if you take one thing away from this, don’t neglect your logbook and risk a breakdown on the side of the road because your radiator overheated. Avoid the quick wear on tyres because you did not get your wheels aligned at your last service. And never, ever say you’ll get it fixed when there is a problem. Enjoy what you have for longer, because it might not last long if you avoid your mechanic.
The information contained in this blog is accurate only at the date of publication.
