How Often Should I Service My Car? Interim vs Full Service

15 February 2026 · 6 min read

The Three Main Service Types

Your car needs three levels of service: interim, full, and major. Think of it like maintenance layers — the more you do now, the fewer surprises later.

Most manufacturers recommend a service every 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. But the exact schedule depends on your car, how you drive it, and age.

Interim Service — The 6-Month Check

An interim service covers around 25 checks: oil and filter change, fluid top-ups (coolant, brake, power steering), visual brake pad checks, tyre pressure and condition, lights, and wipers.

This is the service you get between your full services. It keeps high-mileage cars safe and catches small problems early before they become big ones.

Full Service — The Annual Service

A full service adds about 15 more checks on top of the interim items. You get an air filter replacement, deeper inspections of suspension and steering components, and more thorough brake checks.

We typically recommend a full service once a year. It gives you more protection than an interim and helps your car run properly as it ages.

Major Service — The Deep Dive

A major service is the most thorough regular service you can get. It covers everything in a full service plus spark plugs (if due), fuel filters, and checks on wheel bearings, cooling systems, and the clutch.

Major services are typically due every 24 months or 24,000 miles. They catch wear that a full service might miss and are worth doing on older cars or high-mileage vehicles.

What if I Only Do Low Mileage?

Rubber and oils still degrade over time. Manufacturers set a time limit as well as a mileage limit — usually 12 months for a full service even if you only do 3,000 miles.

Call us on 01902 494948 in Bilston and we can check your logbook. We will advise if you are due based on time or mileage, and what service level suits your car.

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Need help with your car?

Call Wolverhampton Auto Care for clear advice and a fast booking.

Call 01902 494948