When it comes to servicing your car it can be tricky; let us take the confusion out of Basic and Logbook Servicing. We’ll give you all the lowdown of the difference between a Minor and Major Service. The main difference between minor and major vehicle service is the amount of time and parts required to carry out the vehicle’s specific maintenance schedule, but there is a lot more to consider.
In the Australian market, you’ll be asked if you want a basic or logbook service – but what’s the difference?
Basic Car Service
Can also be called a ‘minor’ or ‘general’ service. Most mechanics will conduct under the car and under-bonnet checks at the same time. These checks will cover but are not limited to fluids, brakes, lights, windscreen, wipers, wiper blades, body structure, oil leaks, suspension, diagnostic checks, engine oil and filter replacement, vehicle greasing, and tyre rotation by a professional factory-trained technician. It can be part of the logbook service, and sometimes it will be referred to as a basic or general service.
As a rough guideline – this really depends on our vehicle, manufacturer requirements, engine type, and how your vehicle is being used – a minor service is required every 10,000km or every year.
Logbook Service
Depending on the vehicle, manufacturer requirements, and engine type, you can count on a major service after two minor ones, so about every three years or 30,000km. This is usually also the right time to think about replacing spark plugs, cabin, and fuel filters, and timing belts for example. Your manufacturer’s logbook will tell you exactly when these services are necessary.
A major service includes replacing transmission and differential oils, which lubricates the ring and pinion gears that transfer power from the driveshaft to the wheel axles. You can also count on checking and replacing brake and clutch fluid, adjusting tappet clearance to make sure the most important parts in your engine keep running in optimal condition. It also the time to check and replace the wheel bearing grease, to name but a few of the additional items required.
How do I know if my car needs a minor or a major service?
Remember the rule of thumb when it comes to servicing your vehicle, every 10,000klms keeps your car running smoothly and reduces engine wear. While, Logbook servicing either minor or major, is designed to maintain the performance of the vehicle for the maximum period and is recommended by the manufacturer.
When it’s time to sell your vehicle, being able to provide a consistent, and regular servicing history with a reputable service department, will drastically improve your resale value.
Simply put, regularly servicing your car will undoubtedly improve the life span of the vehicle. Plus, when you’re ready to sell a car with evidence of regular servicing – or even better a full-service history – is likely to attract more potential buyers and a higher selling price.
Auto King mobile mechanics can come to you for any vehicle repair, service, and inspection needs. Book or Call for a free quote!
