What is an Essential Service?

What is an Essential Service?

The main elements of an essential service are:

  • Replace the engine oil using the correct oil as per the manufacturer's specifications.
  • Replacing the oil filter.
  • Top up all fluids including brake fluid, battery electrolyte, clutch fluid (for manual gearboxes) automatic transmission fluid, power steering fluid, radiator coolant, windscreen washer fluid.
  • Brake inspection including brake pads, brake disks, brake shoes and brake drums and handbrake action. Adjusting if necessary.
  • Tyre rotation and balance.
  • Air conditioning cabin filter or odour elimination treatment.
  • A visual inspection of the fuel system, gearbox, transmission, lights, suspension and wipers.

This will help ensure your car is in a safe and reliable condition. This essential service list is an example of what's used in the absence of a manufacturer's logbook list scheduled service.