The Ultimate Guide to Your First Car Service

21 Feb 2025

Owning a first car is an exciting life moment, but proper upkeep is a big responsibility. A good maintenance schedule is essential to keep it running smoothly and safely. As well as checking the oil levels and tyre pressure frequently, you will need to take your vehicle for your first car service. From what to expect to questions you should ask, our first car service checklist covers everything you will need to know. 

Why Is Servicing Your Car Important?

Servicing your car helps ensure that everything is functioning properly, keeping it running reliably and operating safely. Any issues can be identified early before damage is caused, and fine-tuning undertaken to maximise performance and efficiency. Neglecting routine maintenance can lead to numerous problems, such as:

• Safety Risks:

Worn tyres or failing brakes can easily cause accidents.

• Unnecessary Repairs:

Minor issues that a service would identify can quickly escalate, leading to avoidable damage to the vehicle and expensive repairs.

• Reduced Performance:

Dirty engine oil and clogged filters force the engine to work harder, reducing performance and fuel economy.

• Low Resale Value:

Many buyers are put off by a poor service history, impacting the price they will be willing to pay for your used car.

After How Many Kilometres is the First Service?

For a new car, the first service is generally recommended after 12 months or between 10,000-15,000 km, whichever occurs first. This schedule ensures adherence to manufacturer guidelines. Specific recommendations may vary based on the type of engine oil and the driving conditions.

For example, cars operated in dusty or challenging environments might require servicing sooner. Vehicles using synthetic engine oil can often go longer between services compared to those using conventional oil, as long as oil levels are regularly topped up. Always refer to your owner’s manual for precise servicing intervals.

How Many KM Until A Service Is Necessary?

Modern cars with synthetic engine oil typically require servicing every 10,000-15,000 km under normal conditions. Older cars or those using conventional mineral oil may need more frequent attention, often every 10,000-15,000 km. For the most accurate advice, consult your owner’s manual.

Can I Service My Car Before 10,000km?

Yes, servicing before 10,000km is possible and sometimes necessary. Factors like demanding driving conditions, unusual smells or noises, or specific recommendations in your owner’s manual might warrant earlier servicing.

What Happens During a Car Service?

Whatever age your car is, there are key checks that should be performed at every service:

1. Oil and Filter Change:

Dirty oil and clogged filters will quickly impact your car’s performance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel economy. Changing the oil and replacing the filters is an integral part of any service, essential to keep your engine functioning efficiently.

2. Brake Inspection:

Every element of the car’s braking system will be inspected and tested, including brake pads, discs, and brake fluid levels. Any signs of wear should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent more serious damage occurring over time.

3. Tyre Checks:

Tyre alignment, depth of tread, and air pressure will be checked and adjusted. If the tyres are becoming worn, and the tread approaching the minimum legal depth of 1.6mm, they should be replaced. For safety reasons as well as efficient performance, well-maintained tyres are vital.

4. Battery Health Inspection:

Terminal connections and voltage levels will be inspected, and it will be checked that your car’s battery is charging properly. Any corrosion should be cleaned off. Old batteries and those that are beginning to fail will need replacing.  

5. Fluids Topped Up:

Windscreen fluid, coolant, and driveline fluids like transmission and brake fluid levels will be checked and reservoirs replenished. If any are showing signs of contamination, dirt, or degradation, they should be drained and the system flushed before fresh fluids are added. 

6. Suspension and Steering Checks:

Steering components and shock absorbers should be checked for wear and functionality to ensure proper handling and suspension performance. Any problems identified should then be resolved.

7. Lights and Wipers Inspected:

Headlights, brake lights, tail lights, indicators, and cabin lights will all be checked for proper function. Any that are dimming or failing will need new bulbs. Windscreen wipers should be checked for cracks, stiffness, and wear, and if needed, replaced.

8. Computer Diagnostics Checks:

Modern cars make use of Electronic Control Units (ECUs), a system of computers that work in harmony to optimise the car’s performance. Computer diagnostics checks run during servicing can analyse the data from these systems and identify hidden issues before they develop.

What Questions Should You Ask Your Mechanic at a First Service? 

Asking the right questions when your car’s serviced can help you stay informed about your car’s condition and avoid unexpected costs.

1. What’s included in the service, and how much will the basic service cost?
2. Is the mechanic specialised in working with my vehicle, and may I meet them?
3. Does the car need any urgent repairs?
4. Are my car’s parts still covered by its warranty?
5. Can synthetic oil be used to good effect in my car?
6. What work can wait until the next service?
7. Can you expect to receive a detailed service report?

How Can You Prepare for Your First Car Service?

Some basic preparation can help you feel more confident and ensure your car is properly serviced:

• Read the owner’s manual so you are familiar with the service schedule, and check the specifics of its warranty. The service provider will need to be compliant with manufacturer requirements to keep the warranty valid, if it’s still within date.
• Prepare a list of concerns such as odd noises, smells, performance issues, or warning lights to inform the mechanic and ensure thorough servicing. This is the best way to ensure no potential issue is overlooked.
• Make sure your car is clean, as dirt and grime can obscure components and impede technicians and mechanics when inspecting your vehicle.
• Check reviews and credentials when choosing a service centre, and make sure your mechanic has appropriate certification.

What Should You Do After Your First Car Service?

After a service, follow these steps to ensure your records are accurate and you can keep track of your future servicing schedule:

1. Review the Report: Make sure you understand everything that has been done at the service, all checks performed and repairs undertaken. There may be recommendations there for future maintenance, so ensure you are fully informed about everything you need to do.
2. Maintain Your Car’s Records: Keep detailed records of every service, so you can refer to them in the future. These records will be important for potential buyers should you choose to sell your car, too.
3. Plan Your Next Service: Make a note of the date when your car will next need servicing, as per the service centre and the manufacturer’s recommendations.
4. Monitor How Your Car Handles: Keep track of improvements or changes in performance, such as handling, braking, and fuel consumption. This is all useful information for mechanics and technicians at future services.

A first car service might seem an overwhelming prospect but there’s no need to worry. If you know what to expect and understand the process, you can head to the service centre confidently, and ensure your car is maintained in excellent condition for many years to come.

Gulf Oil has over a century of experience keeping cars running at their very best. Use our dealer locator to book an express oil change service with our expert mechanics, and rest assured your car is in safe hands.