How Long Does a Car Service Take? Quick Guide

 

Learn how long a car service takes, what each type includes, and why MB Motors in Rugeley offers expert, warranty-safe servicing for all vehicles.

If you're due for a car service and wondering how long it might take, you're not alone. Whether it's your first time booking in or you're just juggling a busy schedule, knowing what to expect can help you plan your day with confidence. In most cases, a standard car service can take anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the type of service and your vehicle's specific needs.

 

This guide walks you through everything you need to know, from understanding your car's service requirements to what happens after the work is done. Plus, we’ll highlight how MB Motors in Rugeley can service your car to manufacturer standards without voiding your warranty to save you time and money.

 

Understanding Your Car's Service Needs

 

Cars aren’t one-size-fits-all and neither are their service needs. Factors like your vehicle's age, mileage, fuel type, and manufacturer schedule all influence what kind of servicing is required and how long it takes. Regular maintenance helps preserve performance, prevents breakdowns, and ensures your vehicle stays road-legal.

 

There are generally three types of service:

 

• Interim service: Recommended every 6 months or 6,000 miles. Typically takes about 1.5 hours and includes essentials like an oil change, fluid top-ups, and safety checks.

 

• Full service: Recommended yearly or every 12,000 miles. This can take around 2.5 to 3 hours and includes a more thorough inspection, additional filter replacements, and detailed brake checks.

 

• Major service: Needed every 24 months. Expect around 3 to 4 hours. This service covers all aspects of a full service plus additional item replacements like spark plugs and brake fluid.

 

We tailor each service to your car's make, model, and warranty requirements. Thanks to Block Exemption regulations, you’re free to service your vehicle with us without affecting your manufacturer warranty too. We follow your car’s official service schedule and use OEM-quality parts to keep everything in line. Our team ensures that whether you drive petrol, diesel, hybrid, or electric, your service is fully compliant and expertly carried out.

 

Signs Your Car Needs Immediate Attention

 

While routine servicing is essential, sometimes your car will signal that it needs attention sooner. Recognising these signs can help you avoid serious mechanical problems and even breakdowns:

 

• Dashboard warning lights (e.g. engine, battery, brake system)
• Unusual noises when driving or braking
• Smoke or steam from the bonnet
• Fluid leaks beneath the vehicle
• Difficulty starting the engine
• Sudden drop in fuel efficiency

 

If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t wait for your next scheduled service. Book in immediately. We offer quick diagnostics and expert repairs to get you safely back on the road, typically on the same day as well.

Steps to Prepare for a Car Service

 

A bit of preparation before your service goes a long way and can help everything run smoothly. Not only does it save you time, but it also ensures that the technicians can do their job efficiently and accurately. It’s also a chance for you to feel more confident and informed about what’s happening with your car, so here are a few easy steps to follow:

 

• Check what’s due: Refer to your car’s handbook or service schedule to understand what’s expected. Knowing whether you’re due for an interim, full, or major service avoids unnecessary delays. If you’re unsure about this, our team can advise you based on your vehicle’s age and mileage.

 

• Note any issues: Write down anything unusual you’ve noticed such as noises, vibrations, warning lights. Even small changes in how your car drives can help the mechanic pinpoint problems early. The more detail you can provide, the better the outcome.

 

• Remove personal items: Clear out the boot and glove box as the technicians may need access. This ensures nothing gets in the way during the inspection and avoids potential loss or damage. Don’t forget any valuables or child seats that may obstruct key areas.

 

• Bring relevant documents: Service book (for stamps), warranty info, or previous service records. These help the technician track your car’s maintenance history and ensure warranty compliance. We can also update digital service logs for most major brands.

 

At MB Motors, we offer digital service records and can update your vehicle’s history online for most brands. If you're unsure what service your car needs, our friendly team will guide you through it. Booking is easy, and you can even request a quote or book online.

What Happens During a Car Service?

 

A car service isn’t just a quick once-over. Instead, it’s more of a thorough inspection and maintenance session designed to keep your vehicle safe, efficient, and roadworthy. Here's what typically happens when you bring your car in for service:

 

• Oil and filter change (using manufacturer-approved oil)
• Brake, suspension, and steering checks
• Tyre inspection for pressure and tread depth
• Lights, battery, and fluid level checks
• Air and cabin filter replacement (as needed)
• Diagnostic scan for error codes
• Service light reset and digital log update

 

Our experts at MB Motors work efficiently without cutting corners. That means a typical full service takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, while an interim service can be completed in under 2. You can wait on-site, drop your car off, or ask about our collection options.

 

For EVs and hybrids, we perform additional checks such as regenerative braking diagnostics and battery system tests that all use manufacturer-compliant methods.

 

The Importance of Regular Maintenance

 

Regular vehicle servicing does much more than keep your car running–it actually plays a vital role in maintaining performance, safety, and long-term value. Just like routine check-ups for your health, regular maintenance helps detect and address small issues before they become serious and costly problems.

 

A well-maintained car is not only more reliable than one that hasn’t been checked for a while, but it’s also safer to drive. Servicing ensures critical components like brakes, suspension, and steering are in proper working order, reducing the risk of accidents. You’ll also benefit from better fuel economy, fewer breakdowns, and even improved engine efficiency, all of which save money over time.

 

There’s also a financial upside when it comes time to sell or trade in your vehicle. Cars with a full, up-to-date service history, especially from a reputable garage like us, are more appealing to buyers and often command higher resale values. It shows the car has been cared for, which builds trust and confidence.

 

While it may be tempting to skip a service to save a few pounds, it often ends up costing more. Problems like worn brake pads, low engine oil, or a neglected timing belt can lead to major repairs, or worse, cause total engine failure.

 

Our team makes it easy to stay on top of your car’s needs. With transparent pricing, reminder systems, and flexible service plans, we help you budget and plan with confidence. For added flexibility, we also offer Payment Assist, allowing you to spread the cost over time without interest.

 

After Your Car Service: Next Steps

 

Once your service is complete, you’ll receive a full report outlining the work carried out and any issues to monitor. Here’s what to do next:

 

• Review the service checklist: Make sure all agreed work has been done. Take a moment to compare it with your original booking so you’re confident nothing was overlooked.

 

• Ask questions: Our technicians are happy to explain any findings or recommendations. Understanding what was done and why gives you better insight into your car’s condition and future needs.

 

• Book follow-up work if needed: Some fixes may not be urgent but should be done soon.

 

• Keep your records safe: We can update digital histories and provide stamped books or VAT invoices. These documents help maintain your vehicle’s value and are often essential for warranty claims.

 

• Set reminders: Don’t forget your next service! Regular intervals keep your warranty valid and your car in top condition. We offer service reminders to make sure you stay on schedule effortlessly.

 

If you were happy with the service, consider booking your next visit in advance or ask about our service plans. Our goal at MB Motors is to make vehicle maintenance simple, affordable, and stress-free for every driver.

 

So, how long does a car service take? In most cases, between 1.5 and 3 hours, but it’s not just about time. It’s about making sure your car is safe, reliable, and performing at its best. At MB Motors, we offer expert car servicing for all makes and models, including hybrids and EVs. Our services are warranty-safe, competitively priced, and delivered with the care and quality you’d expect from a main dealer, without the main dealer price tag.

 

At MB Motors, we help drivers stay on top of car maintenance with honest advice and reliable service. Whether it’s time for a brake check or a full inspection, we’re here to keep your vehicle safe and roadworthy. Book online or call us today to get started.