CARNAMA - Episode 22 - Car Servicing !

CARNAMA – Episode 22 – Car Servicing !

Hi friends, just this morning I have dropped off my car for routine servicing at the workshop. I do give it at the dealer service center.

It’s a fact that many people think that car servicing is basically just detail car washing. The truth is that it’s not!

Here are some of the fine points to follow when giving your car for service:

The first and foremost is to know when to give your car for service. Most manufacturers recommend a periodic service at every 10,000 km of mileage. But, even if you don’t achieve this mileage, remember this thumb rule to service your car once every six months. This is a MUST!

Call and schedule your service appointment with the workshop in advance. If you have a preferred service attendant then ask for him to attend to your service call.
Before going to the service center, check your vehicle on your own and note down all those scratches/dents etc.

Note down any problems/issues in your vehicle that you want the service center to correct. Chances are that you might forget to remember the same when at the service center, so it’s better to write it down before.

Make sure the attendant checks the basics of your vehicle when receiving it.
Make sure he signs and stamps your service record book. This is very important as it evidences your servicing history.

Don’t readily agree to any recommendation you get from the service attendant. Their job is to sell. Think, question and then decide if you really need what is being recommended. If not sure, call a friend and discuss.

Service agents might also try to sell you some vehicle accessories. Now remember accessories are just that – accessories. You don’t need to have them unless of course it is affordable as per your budget.

When receiving the vehicle back from service, don’t be in a hurry to pick up your car and drive out quickly.

Take some time to check all the basic functions of the car at the service center itself. If needed ask for a mechanic to accompany you for a test drive. Point out anything you feel has not been attended to as per your liking.

If any parts were replaced, ask for the old parts that were changed.

Ensure your vehicle has been washed properly from the exterior and vacuumed from the interior.

Dealer maintenance and servicing does cost a bit more than regular garages, but in the long run and from my personal experience, I can promise you that it does help save a lot of stress on yourselves and your vehicle will feel like new for many many years !