7 Essential car services you should never skip

Regular car maintenance is key to keeping your vehicle safe, reliable, and efficient. In this article, we cover essential car services you should never skip. From oil changes to brake repairs and body and paint care, these services not only keep you as the driver safe, it also extend your car’s lifespan.

Why car maintenance matters

Routine car service helps:

• Prevent costly repairs
• Enhance fuel efficiency
• Improve safety on the road
• Maintain your car’s resale value

Essential car maintenance services

1. Oil changes and fluid checks

Changing your oil is one of the most basic yet crucial car maintenance tasks. Fresh oil keeps your engine running smoothly. Besides oil changes, check other fluids regularly:

• Coolant
• Brake fluid
• Transmission fluid

2. Brake repair and replacement

Brakes are critical for your safety. Over time, brake pads wear out and need replacing. Here’s what you need to know:

• Brake pad lifespan: Most brake pads last between 30,000 to 70,000 km.
• How to check your brake pads: Look for wear indicators or reduced brake response. If your brake pedal feels soft or spongy, it could be a sign of air in the brake lines or low brake fluid.
  Squealing or screeching noises often mean the brake pads are worn down, and it’s time for a replacement.
• Brake repair: Regular inspection and timely repair can prevent more serious issues. Don’t delay if you notice any changes in brake performance.

3. Tyre maintenance and alignment

Proper tyre care goes beyond just checking pressure:

• Tyre rotation: Rotate your tyres every 5,000 to 8,000 km to ensure even wear.
• Wheel alignment: Misaligned wheels cause uneven tyre wear and can affect fuel efficiency. Get them checked regularly.

4. Body and paint care

Keeping your car’s body and paint in top condition not only makes your car look great but also protects it from corrosion.

• Regular washing and waxing: Clean your car frequently to remove dirt, salt, and debris.
• Scratch and dent repairs: Fix minor issues before they turn into bigger problems.
• Carro body and paint services: Consider professional services like Carro Care for high-quality repairs and a lasting finish. More info on car coating here. 

5. Battery maintenance

Your car battery powers everything from ignition to electronics. A dead battery can leave you stranded, so regular checks are important.

• Battery lifespan: Most last 2–5 years, depending on usage and climate.
• Signs of battery issues: Slow engine crank, dim headlights, or dashboard warning lights.
• Tip: Have your battery tested during your routine service to avoid surprises.

6. Air conditioning service

With the hot and humid climate in Malaysia, your car’s AC is essential for comfort.

• Filter replacement: Change the air filter regularly to keep the air clean. In general, look to change it once a year.
• Gas top-up: AC refrigerant may need a top-up if you notice that cooling is weakening.
• Full servicing: An annual check can prevent leaks and compressor damage.
  

7. Wiper blades and lights

Small parts often get overlooked—until it rains or you’re driving at night. 

• Wiper care: Replace wiper blades at least once a year (in general) to maintain visibility as well as for your safety.
• Light check: Ensure all exterior and interior lights work, especially your brake and signal lights.

Your car service checklist

A checklist helps you stay on top of all the important tasks. Here’s a quick guide and schedule:

• Weekly: Check tyre pressure and look for any visible issues. More information on how to care for your tyres here.
• Monthly: Inspect oil levels and fluids. An in-depth article on how to check your car fluids can be found here.
• Every 5,000–8,000 km: Rotate tyres and at the same time perform a quick brake inspection. Look for the brake pad material between the calliper and the rotor.
  Most pads should have at least 3mm of thickness. If it looks thin (or almost gone), it’s time to replace them.
• Every 10,000 km or every 6 months: Schedule an oil change and detailed inspection with your mechanic. You can schedule one with Carro Care for a professional service and transparent pricing.

Stay safe and comfy with regular maintenance

Taking care of your car means more than just driving—it’s about keeping it safe and efficient for the long haul. Regular car service, including oil changes, brake repair, tyre maintenance, and body and paint care, is all important. It’ll keep you safe and keep costs relatively low in the long run (think fewer breakdowns and costly replacement parts).

Stick to your checklist, and consider professional services like Carro Care. You can read more about Carro Care here.

Stay safe on the road!