What does vehicle service involve?

Basic services typically involve a visual examination and oil and filter replacement, as well as the topping up of vital engine fluids such as antifreeze, brake fluid, washer fluid, and steering fluid. An inspection of up to 35 essential components is also performed to guarantee the vehicle is in the best possible condition.

What exactly does a full car service include?

A car service can include up to 50 components, system checks, and changes, such as the following:

• An oil change and/or filter replacement is required for your vehicle.

• Checking lights, tyres, exhaust, and brake and steering functions

• Assuring that your engine is 'tuned' to perform at its best.

• Hydraulic fluid and coolant levels are being checked.

• The cooling system is being examined (from radiators in your car to pumps and hoses)

• Checks for suspension

• Alignment of the steering

• The battery of the vehicle is being tested.

Is it mandatory for garages to provide a warranty on repairs?

Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, all garages in Reading are expected to carry out work with reasonable care and skill, so if something goes wrong with their job, you can file a claim.

Is it possible for a garage to hold my car if I refuse to pay?

If you do not pay your garage invoice, they have a lien on your car. This implies they have the legal right to keep the car until you pay.

Is it legal for a garage to do repairs without your consent?

If your instructions to the car garage in Reading are to carry out necessary repairs regardless of the extent or cost of such repairs, you give the garage unrestricted freedom to perform whatever repairs are required.

What if my mechanic is unable to repair my vehicle?

It's usually a good idea to chat with the mechanic who's doing the work so they can explain what went wrong with your car and why more repairs were needed. If you notice a problem with their job, you should notify the garage and offer them a chance to correct the situation.

Are mechanics covered by insurance to drive any vehicle?

Most motor trade plans cover you to drive your own car if stated on the policy for private use or business-related cars for business reasons only when carrying out a test drive or collection and delivery of a customer’s car.

How long can a garage keep your vehicle for repairs in the United Kingdom?

You can ask the garage to repair or replace the part at their expense after the 30-day period has ended. This must be completed in a fair amount of time and without causing you undue inconvenience. If a part is defective, you do not have to offer the garage more than one chance to fix or replace it.

No MOT is worth how many points?

If you don't have a MOT, you'll face a fine as well as a penalty. Three penalty points are assigned for operating a vehicle in a dangerous condition. Hence you should check MOT status and ensure you have a valid MOT.

What happens if you get your vehicle MOT completed early?

Remember that if you do your MOT test early and it fails, you shouldn't be driving this vehicle - even if you have a MOT certificate that hasn't expired yet. If your vehicle fails its MOT, it is potentially unsafe to you, other drivers, and passengers in your vehicle.

Why should you look at a vehicle's MOT history?

If the car's MOT history shows that it hasn't had one in a long time, this might indicate its quality and how well it's been cared for. If you're buying second-hand and want to know how much something will cost in the future, this is a useful tool.

When you check MOT history of a car, this will reveal which parts of the vehicle required immediate repair and retesting due to past MOT failures. This can provide you an insight into common vehicle problems and, if the problems persist, an indicator of future maintenance requirements.

Does a failed MOT invalidate a previous MOT?

An existing MOT certificate is good until it expires, and a fresh test will not invalidate it. The existing certificate will remain valid if your customer wishes to have the vehicle retested and it fails.

Is it common for mechanics to try to frighten you?

This is a fear technique to persuade you to approve a repair. Mechanics prey on your anxieties that you won't want to break down by the side of the road because most people don't know much about their vehicles. Get a second opinion right away if a mechanic is attempting to manipulate you in this manner.

If you drive a car without a MOT certificate, what rights do you lose?

Explanation: If your vehicle requires a MOT certificate, driving it without one is prohibited. In addition to being unlawful, the car may be hazardous to drive, and your insurance may be void.

Do airbags get checked during a MOT?

The airbags in your car will be examined during your MOT. If the airbag warning light on your car comes on during your MOT, you'll need to book another appointment. In fact, because it directly affects your safety, this warning light is regarded a key reason for your MOT failing.