When a basic service is no longer enough
A basic service protects the engine between intervals, but every two to three years or every 30,000-60,000 km (depending on the manufacturer and engine) it is time for the broader package. A major service is your chance to replace every wear part that has a longer interval than oil and filter, at a single visit, on vehicles where those parts have quietly aged out even if they still seem to be working.
The idea is simple: instead of coming into the workshop five times for five small things, everything gets done in one visit and the car leaves fully ready for the next period.
What a major service includes
Everything from the basic service
Engine oil and oil filter change, inspection (and replacement if needed) of the air and cabin filters, and a full fluid check. That is the starting point.
Spark plugs
Spark plugs age quietly. The engine runs, the car drives, but fuel consumption climbs and pulling power fades. Depending on the type (standard, iridium, platinum) the interval is different, but on a major service we always check them and replace when they are due. Bad plugs mean harder starts, higher fuel use, a greater risk of detonation, and more expensive downstream problems.
Timing or accessory belt
The timing belt is one of the most critical items in a major service. If it snaps while the engine is running, the pistons hit the valves and the repair is severe. The typical interval is 60,000-120,000 km or 5-7 years, depending on the manufacturer. The tensioner and the water pump usually go in together with the belt when the factory recommends it.
The accessory (multi-V) belt drives the alternator, power steering pump, air conditioning, and other loads. It also wears with time, cracks, and squeaks. We inspect the condition and replace as needed.
If your vehicle uses a timing chain instead of a belt, the major service covers chain tension and tensioner health.
Fuel filter
The fuel filter catches contaminants from the tank and protects the pump and injectors. On a diesel it is especially important: a clogged filter means the engine struggles on the motorway and the high-pressure pump works harder than it should.
Brake fluid
Brake fluid is hygroscopic: it absorbs moisture from the air over time and loses its boiling point. Wet brake fluid can boil under sustained braking (for example, descending a mountain) and the brakes can fade. That is why it gets replaced on a regular major-service schedule, usually every 2 years.
Coolant (antifreeze)
If the antifreeze is past its service life, it loses its anti-corrosion properties and starts to attack the radiator, water pump, and hoses. On a major service we check the condition, flush the system when needed, and fill fresh.
Detailed suspension and brake inspection
Pads, discs, calipers, brake lines, shock absorbers, tie-rod ends, ball joints. Everything that matters for safety gets inspected. If something needs attention, we let you know and agree on it before we touch anything - nothing is replaced without a conversation.
Visual underbody inspection
While the car is on the lift, we go over the underbody: oil leaks, engine under-cover condition, exhaust system, rubber parts. Small things that would become expensive if ignored.
How often to do a major service
The interval depends on the engine and the manufacturer, but as a rough guide:
- Every 30,000 km or every 2 years for some items (brake fluid, standard-type spark plugs, filters)
- Every 60,000 km for more aggressive wear parts and a deeper inspection
- Every 60,000-120,000 km for the timing belt (per manufacturer recommendation)
We follow your vehicle's service book and tune the actual interval to your engine, driving style, and mileage. If you are not sure where you stand, bring the documentation and we will review it together.
How long does a major service take
It depends on the scope. A clean major service without timing-belt work usually fits into half a working day. If the timing belt is part of the package, it can take a full day because the belt job is delicate and not something to rush.
If you need the car the same day, book an appointment a day or two in advance and let us know before you arrive.
How much does a major service cost
The price depends on the make, model, and exactly which items are in the package. The timing belt and spark plugs are the biggest line items, filters and fluids are the cheaper part.
For a rough quote, send us the make, model, year, and mileage - and we will tell you what should be in the package and how much it will come to. We never work without an agreement up front.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to do everything at once or can I split it up?
You can split it up if that suits your budget better. But our recommendation is to not delay the timing belt, brake fluid, or spark plugs when they are at interval - those are items that, when they fail, cost more than the service itself.
What is the difference between a basic and a major service?
A basic service is mainly oil, oil filter, and a basic inspection. A major service is all of that plus spark plugs, belts, fuel filter, brake fluid, coolant, and a more thorough inspection. The basic service covers the short interval; the major service covers the long one.
How do I know if my car is due for a major service?
Two indicators: kilometres since the last major service, and the date. If you are past the interval on either one, it is time. If you are not sure, call us with the VIN or the plate and the mileage, and we will tell you quickly.
Do you also replace timing chains, not just belts?
Chains are replaced less often than belts, but when they do need replacement it is a separate, bigger job. On a major service we check chain tension and the state of the tensioner, and if we find a problem we discuss the next steps with you.
What if you find something extra while doing the major service?
We stop, call you, explain what it is and how much it costs. Only when you say yes do we continue. We never do anything we did not agree on.
Time for a major service?
If you are near the interval or you do not know when the last one was done, give us a call. We will set a date, review the service book, and put together a plan tailored to your vehicle. A major service is the best investment in the long life of your engine.