Regular car maintenance is one of the best investments you can make as a vehicle owner. While routine servicing keeps your car running smoothly, a major service provides a more detailed inspection and replacement of key components to ensure long-term safety and performance. If you’re based in Surrey, finding an affordable major service in Guildford is essential for keeping costs down while ensuring your car is properly cared for.
In this article, we’ll explore what a major service includes, why it’s important, how often you need one, and how to find affordable options in Guildford without compromising on quality.
What Is a Major Service?
A major service is the most comprehensive level of car servicing available, carried out every 24 months or roughly every 24,000 miles (depending on your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations). It goes beyond the checks of an interim or full service, covering a wide range of replacements and inspections.
A major service typically includes:
- Oil and filter change
- Air filter replacement
- Fuel filter replacement (diesel engines)
- Spark plug replacement (petrol engines)
- Brake fluid replacement
- Coolant flush and top-up
- Gearbox oil check/replacement (where required)
- Full brake inspection (pads, discs, fluid)
- Suspension and steering checks
- Exhaust and emissions inspection
- Battery and charging system test
- Lights, tyres, and safety checks
This thorough approach ensures your car remains in top condition, reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs later on.
Why Is a Major Service Important?
Many drivers delay servicing to save money, but skipping a major service in Guildford can lead to long-term expenses. Here’s why it matters:
- Safety: Ensures that brakes, tyres, and suspension are working properly.
- Longevity: Replacing fluids and filters extends the life of the engine.
- Performance: Helps your car run more efficiently, improving fuel economy.
- Resale Value: A complete service history increases your car’s market value.
- Peace of Mind: Reduces the risk of breakdowns, especially on long journeys.
By booking an affordable major service in Guildford, you’re investing in your car’s reliability and your own safety.
How Often Should You Get a Major Service?
Most manufacturers recommend a major service every two years or 24,000 miles. However, this depends on your driving habits and conditions:
- City drivers with frequent stop-start journeys may need servicing more often.
- Motorway drivers covering high mileage should stick to manufacturer intervals.
- Older vehicles often benefit from annual checks for reliability.
If you’re unsure, a trusted garage in Guildford can advise you on the right schedule for your car.
The Cost of a Major Service in Guildford
The price of a major service varies depending on your vehicle’s make, model, and engine size. On average, drivers in Guildford can expect to pay between £200 and £400. Luxury or specialist vehicles may cost more.
For those looking for an affordable major service in Guildford, it’s worth comparing local garages, asking about promotions, or booking combined packages with MOT tests to save money.
Affordable Major Service in Guildford: What to Look For
Finding the right garage is about more than just cost. When searching for an affordable major service in Guildford, keep these points in mind:
- Transparent Pricing: A reliable garage will provide a clear breakdown of costs before starting work.
- DVSA Approval: Choose a garage recognised by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency.
- Qualified Technicians: Mechanics should be trained and experienced in handling your vehicle type.
- Reputation: Look for online reviews and customer testimonials.
- Warranty Protection: Many independent garages use manufacturer-approved parts, so your warranty remains valid.
- Convenience: Local garages in Guildford often offer collection, delivery, or courtesy cars.
By combining affordability with quality, you’ll get the best value for your money.
Benefits of Booking a Local Major Service in Guildford
Using a local garage for your major car service in Guildford has several advantages:
- Accessibility: Easier to drop off and pick up your car.
- Personal Service: Local garages often provide a more customer-focused experience.
- Trust and Reliability: Established garages depend on reputation within the community.
- Support for Local Economy: Choosing a Guildford-based garage helps local businesses thrive.
How to Save Money on a Major Service
Even though a major service is more expensive than an interim or full service, there are ways to keep costs down:
- Book in advance – Some garages offer discounts for early bookings.
- Look for seasonal promotions – Many garages run offers during quieter months.
- Combine with an MOT – Packages often reduce overall costs.
- Use an independent garage – They usually charge less than main dealers but provide the same quality of service.
- Maintain your car regularly – Simple things like checking tyre pressure and oil levels can prevent bigger problems.
By choosing an affordable major service in Guildford, you balance cost-effectiveness with thorough care.
What Happens If You Skip a Major Service?
Delaying or avoiding a major service can lead to:
- Increased fuel consumption due to clogged filters
- Premature engine wear from old oil
- Brake fluid deterioration, reducing stopping power
- Cooling system failures leading to overheating
- Higher repair bills for preventable issues
Skipping one service might save money now, but it usually leads to higher costs later. Regular servicing at a trusted MOT and service garage in Guildford ensures your car stays reliable.
Combining Major Service with MOT Testing
Many garages in Guildford offer MOT and service packages. Booking your MOT test at the same time as a major service in Guildford can provide benefits such as:
- Lower combined cost
- Convenient single appointment
- Early identification of faults that might cause MOT failure
- Improved chances of passing the MOT first time
This is a smart option for anyone wanting both compliance and affordability.
Final Thoughts
If your car is due for a major service, booking with a trusted garage offering an affordable major service in Guildford is the best way to protect your investment. A major service covers everything from fluids and filters to brakes and suspension, ensuring your vehicle remains safe, reliable, and efficient.
By choosing a local, reputable garage, you not only save money but also gain peace of mind knowing your car is in professional hands. Whether you combine it with an MOT, take advantage of promotions, or simply book regularly, maintaining your vehicle with a major service is essential.
