People often forget just how important servicing your car is. The reality is that leaving your car for a long time WITHOUT a service can lead to big problems – and big pay-outs – in the long run.
It's simple: if you look after your leased car and get it serviced when you're supposed to, you'll be far less likely to incur big repair bills in the future, mainly because you MUST get a leased car serviced.
How Often Should I Service My Leased Car?
To make sure your car is kept in top condition, you should get it serviced once every year at the very least (or when your car tells you to). Sticking to an annual service schedule will help you avoid any unexpected costly work.
But be aware that there are some age and mileage milestones you should keep an eye on. For example, the distance you can cover between oil changes. These will be shown in the car's manual, along with other tasks needing to be completed throughout your car's life.
How Much Will A Service Cost?
The average cost of a basic service is around £125, depending on what garage you decide to use. However, this won't include the cost of any repairs, replacements or new parts, should you need them.
Can I Get My Leased Car Serviced Anywhere?
You can service your car at any independent garage providing they are VAT registered and use genuine manufacturer parts for the service. Doing it this way will keep the warranty in validation for you - don't forget to get your service book stamped.
Care For Your Car And It Could Save You Money
Getting your car serviced each year, and maintaining it between the services, is money well spent. That's because problems that are caught earlier on are usually cheaper to fix. A well-maintained car is also more efficient, so you'll save on fuel too.
And remember, if you need to make a claim under warranty, you'll usually have to show that your car has got a complete service record. So, remember to get this done too.
Skipping A Service Could Cost You
If you skip a due service, you risk paying a MUCH bigger bill in the long run. The cost of a service is far less than the price you'll end up paying to replace parts, due to damage through poor maintenance. For example:
-
Water pump - £240
-
Engine exchange - £2,575
-
Cylinder head gasket - £520
It's For Your Own Good
The truth is that you'll be much less likely to incur large costs if you follow the lease vehicle servicing guidelines.
When you're looking at the bigger picture, it seems that the advantages of getting your car serviced heavily outweigh the minimal cost involved, and the limited effort required to organise the service in the first place. Keeping your contract hire car in good condition will give you peace of mind that it will sail past the wear and tear check it will undergo when you return your car and upgrade.
