What is included in a full car service?
A full car service replaces the engine oil and oil filter, checks and tops up fluids, and inspects the brakes, tyres, suspension, steering, lights, battery, belts, hoses and cooling system. Filters and spark plugs are replaced when they are due. You get a report of anything that needs attention now or soon.
Signs your car is due for a service
- The service reminder light is on, or the sticker on your windscreen says you're due
- It has been about a year since the last service, even if you haven't driven far
- The engine oil looks dark or the level drops between services
- The car feels sluggish, idles roughly or uses more fuel than usual
- You hear new noises from the brakes, wheels or engine bay
Why does regular servicing matter?
Engine oil breaks down with heat and time, filters clog, and rubber parts such as belts, hoses and wiper blades age even when a car isn’t driven much. A service catches these before they cause a breakdown or a bigger repair bill. Regular servicing also keeps a record of the car’s history, which helps when you sell it.
What do we check during a full service?
Every car is different, but a full service at P&J Automotive covers:
- Engine: oil and oil filter replacement, a check for oil, coolant and fuel leaks, and an inspection of drive belts and hoses.
- Fluids: coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid (where fitted), transmission fluid level where it can be checked, and washer fluid.
- Brakes: pad and disc or drum condition, brake lines and handbrake operation.
- Tyres and wheels: tread depth, uneven wear, sidewall damage and pressures, including the spare where accessible.
- Steering and suspension: ball joints, tie-rod ends, bushes and shock absorbers for wear or leaks.
- Electrical: battery test, charging system, lights, horn and wipers.
- Filters and ignition: air filter, cabin filter and spark plugs are inspected and replaced when due.
Before we replace anything that wasn’t in the agreed scope, we contact you first.
What happens after the service?
You’ll get a plain-English summary of what we did and what we found, sorted into what needs attention now, what to plan for, and what’s fine. If something is close to the limit, we’ll tell you how close, so you can decide when to deal with it.
Questions worth asking your mechanic
Whoever works on your car, these questions help you understand the job and the quote:
- What exactly will be replaced at this service, and what will only be inspected?
- Which oil grade and specification are you using for my engine?
- Is anything you found urgent, or can it wait until the next service?
- Will you call me before doing any work that wasn't in the quote?
From our workshop
Recent jobs photographed at our Sunshine North workshop.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I service my car?
Follow the interval in your owner's manual, which is usually set by both time and kilometres — whichever comes first. Short trips, towing, dusty roads and stop-start city driving are often classed as "severe" conditions that call for shorter intervals.
What's the difference between a full service and a logbook service?
A logbook service follows the specific checklist the manufacturer sets for your car's age and kilometres, and is recorded in the service book. A full service is a comprehensive general service for cars outside warranty or without a service book. Both cover the essentials.
Can I wait while my car is serviced?
Call us to book a time that suits you. We'll tell you roughly how long your car will be with us when you book.