What Does a Minor Car Service Include?
It’s no secret why your vehicle needs regular car service – to ensure its optimal performance and long life. You might be getting your prestige car serviced yearly, but do you know the other types of vehicle services equally important for your vehicle performance? One of the most basic types is minor car service!
A minor car service generally comprises a full vehicle diagnostic check, cleaning and replacing the engine oil and fluids. It is also sometimes referred to as the general service and can also be a part of the regular/ logbook service.
The blog discusses a minor car service in detail, including its benefits, components, and how it differs from a major car service.
What is a minor car service?
A minor car service includes a set of routine checks and maintenance tasks like oil and filter changes that keep your vehicle running smoothly. Other standards checks, such as safety inspections of the car’s body and engine, are also done as part of a minor service. The purpose of a minor service is to ensure each of your car’s components is in good working condition.
A minor service is typically done twice a year, acting as a regular health check of your vehicle.
Since there aren’t many checks or replacements made in this type of car service, they are quite cost-effective.
Some of the key benefits of a minor car service are:
- Cost-cutting on maintenance.
- Fuel efficiency
- Longer lifespan.
- Higher resale value.
How does a minor car service differ from a major service?
The major difference between a minor and a major car service lies in the scope and depth of the tasks performed.
While a minor service comprises basic checks and replacements, like oil changes, fluid top-ups, and filter inspections, a major service includes more comprehensive tasks, like detailed inspections, adjustments, and replacements of various components.
A minor service involves routine check-ups by a European car mechanic in Melbourne, while a major service delves deeper into the vehicle’s issues and ensures long-term performance.
A minor service is done more frequently than a major service. On the other hand, major services are less frequent and are carried out depending on the vehicle’s mileage and time intervals.
Regardless of what both these service types comprise, they are equally crucial for keeping your prestige vehicle in top condition and preventing unexpected breakdowns.
| Minor service | Major service |
| Basic checks and replacements. For eg, an oil change | More comprehensive tasks. For eg, a detailed inspection |
| Regular vehicle check-up | Addresses deeper issues. |
| Done once or twice a year | Carried out according to mileage and time intervals |
Minor car service checklist
Various checks and replacements are performed during a minor car service based on the engine and mechanics of the car.
Whether it’s ordinary or European vehicle service, it typically covers a wide array of checks, starting with a thorough visual inspection followed by necessary diagnoses, such as lubricating and replacing certain faulty parts.
1. Oil change.
Changing oil regularly keeps the engine running smoothly, reduces friction, and ensures better fuel efficiency. You should replace your car’s oil every 4,500 kilometres.
2. Fluid checks and top-ups
- Coolant: checking and replacing coolant prevents engine overheating and extends the radiator’s life. This helps in efficient engine cooling.
- Power steering fluid: regular inspection and topping up of power steering fluid maintain smooth steering operation, preventing damage to the power steering system and ensuring responsive handling.
3. Inspection of filters
- Air filter: It is important to clean the air filters regularly to ensure clean air intake, protecting the engine from pollutants.
- Cabin filter: Checking and changing the cabin filter maintains clean air inside the car, improves air quality for passengers, and ensures the proper functioning of the HVAC system.
4. Comprehensive vehicle inspection and diagnostic checks
Involves a thorough inspection of all major car components, including the engine, brakes, transmission, HVAC and suspension, using advanced tools to detect potential issues.
5. Tyre check.
Tyres are checked for their tread depth and pressure and are adjusted accordingly. The minimal tyre depth allowable legally in Australia is 1.6mm and should be replaced now. Also, the recommended tyre pressure for Australian vehicles is typically between 30 and 35 PSI.
In addition to the above tasks, a minor service also includes:
- Check spark plugs and leads
- Check fuel belts, hoses, exhaust, and transmission
- Testing of steering and suspension
- Testing of battery to ensure it is holding charge
- Testing of air conditioning system
- Testing of lights
When should I go for a minor car service?
Ideally, every 10,000 – 15,000 km or once a year, i.e., twice between every major service.
You may also review the car manual to confirm your vehicle’s specific date and service requirements. Or simply check the ‘next service due sticker’ on the windscreen or service light on the dashboard to know when a service is due.
While most mechanics will run a thorough inspection and check during a minor car service, asking for a complete rundown on what’s included and what’s not is important.
How much does a minor car service cost?
Well, it depends on several factors! The cost of a minor car service in Australia varies depending on the vehicle make, model, products used, and service provider. On average, it ranges from $100 to AUD 350.
Basic services, such as oil and filter changes, are usually cost-effective, while more extensive checks, fluid top-ups, and inspections can push the cost higher.
It’s essential to obtain quotes from reputable service centres, consider the included services, and discuss any additional costs before proceeding.
Conclusion
Car maintenance is a crucial task. This is why various services are available in the automotive industry, each dedicated to several parts and components to ensure the vehicle’s smooth operation.
As a result, there is no hard rule when opting for a servicing type. It all depends on the ground reality in the servicing requirements and your budget.
Yet, by promptly fulfilling your car’s minor service requirements, you can avoid paying extra for other car services. So, if you haven’t had your prestige car serviced lately, take your vehicle to a reliable car mechanic and book your appointment.
