Can you service your own car?
Monday 10th March 2025
Every 12 months or so, your car should be thoroughly checked to ensure that it’s in prime condition. The timeframe may differ depending on the manufacturer’s recommendations, what type of vehicle you have, and how many miles it’s travelled. But regular checks are essential to make sure your car runs smoothly and keeps its market value.
Regular checks will ultimately save you money by preventing minor faults from turning into major ones.
Discover the benefits and drawbacks of servicing your own car so that you can decide if DIY servicing is the right choice for you.
Which car parts can I service myself at home?
Along with technical knowledge, suitable tools and the right information to repair parts of your car, you can spend a few hours on a DIY service. Here are five elements of your car which you can service yourself:
- air filter replacement – The air filter in your car stops dirt, dust and other dangerous particles from entering the engine. The filter needs to be replaced regularly as the build-up causes blockages. All you need is the suitable filters for your car, a clean cloth or rag, and a screwdriver and socket set.
- tyre checks – The condition of your vehicle’s tyres is critical to the safety of your car. They should all meet the legal tyre tread depth and be correctly inflated. You can use a 20p coin to check the tread condition and use a digital tyre inflator to pump up your tyres from home. If you experience damage to your tyres, like slashes or bulges, or if you find the tyre tread is less than 1.6mm, it’s time to get new tyres. Book in for your tyre fitting at your nearest Formula One Autocentres.
- engine coolant refills – Your car’s engine coolant and antifreeze keep your engine running at an optimal temperature, protect your engine from corrosion, and prevent a build-up of rust. Ensure your engine is cool before you get started. You then need to drain the coolant safely, as it’s a hazardous material, and dispose of it properly.
- car brake checks – Ensuring your brakes are functioning properly is crucial. You may have to remove your wheel if you can’t see your brake discs and pads, as this makes the visual inspection easier. If your brake pads are of an inch thick or less, you should replace them, too. While technically you can check your brakes at home, Formula One Autocentres offer free brake checks at all centres, so there’s no need to compromise on safety.
You must also ensure you do the following:
- follow manufacturer guidelines
- keep records of all service work
- use approved parts if your car is under warranty
- dispose of fluids properly
Although it’s legal to service your own car in the UK, it shouldn’t substitute professional maintenance for your car. If you would prefer the peace of mind of knowing your car has been checked thoroughly, the parts have been assessed and fitted correctly, and it’s safe to drive, get your next car service at Formula One Autocentres.
The benefits of servicing your own car
It may seem daunting to check the serviceable elements of your car, but it’s great that you’re learning more about your car and how it functions. This will help you remain aware of any sudden changes or detrimental surprises. Your car’s dashboard warning lights will also show you if something isn’t right.
As you dive deeper into the inner workings of your car, you can build your DIY skills and confidence by completing these jobs, as long as you do them properly. It can also be satisfying to know you’ve mastered a technical task.
The drawbacks of servicing your own car
Lack of expertise and knowledge
You may feel confident enough and have the tools available to service your own vehicle, but it doesn’t come without risk. If you overlook or ignore any faults, you’re putting yourself, your passengers and other drivers in danger.
Professional mechanics have the knowledge and expertise to ensure your vehicle is safe and roadworthy. The mechanics at Formula One Autocentres will check your car’s brakes for free to ensure your car will stop reliably.
If you’re apprehensive about checking your car but want to save money, contact your nearest Formula One Autocentres branch to consider your options. We’ll never carry out any work without your permission.
Parts and specialist tools
Manufacturers may specify that you only use approved replacement parts for newer cars or premium brands otherwise you may jeopardise your vehicle’s warranty. This means extensive searching for approved components or tools. Manufacturers can also stipulate that servicing must meet their recommended standards.
The potential savings of DIY car servicing can create an illusion. While parts may be affordable, improper maintenance can result in expensive repairs and expose you to serious liability if your errors cause an accident.
Other factors you need to consider are:
- other complementary tools and materials to complete the service
- storage space for tools, parts and materials
- a lack of an official service stamp on your car’s records which could affect the resale value
- you might miss intricate details which a mechanic would identify
If you don’t have the time, skills or money to fulfil the above requirements safely and properly, you can visit your local Formula One Autocentres garage for a professional mechanic to take care of your next service.
Servicing your car with Formula One Autocentres
Would you prefer someone else to do the fiddly checks and guarantee the work is safe and stress-free? Book your next service with Formula One Autocentres for your car to be checked by specialist technicians. Whether you need a quick health check covering the essentials in an interim service, or a comprehensive inspection with a full service, we’ve got you covered.
