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When it comes to booking your car in for its MOT, there are various options to choose from, including:

• Local garages that are authorised to carry out MOT tests

• National chains with MOT testing centres, such as KwikFit and Halfords

• Online booking platforms that allow you to compare prices and book MOT tests at garages in your area

Depending on where you live, you may have one or all of these options available near you for your car’s next MOT.

Points to consider

• Only ever use an authorised MOT test centre to carry out MOT tests for your vehicle – which you can identify by blue MOT testing station sign with three white triangles

• It’s a good idea to book your MOT test well in advance, especially during the peak times of September to March

• If your car fails its MOT, you'll need to get the necessary repairs done before it can be retested

  Want to find a reliable local garage for your MOT? Scroll up and browse our list of approved garage / vehicle services in SM1.

It’s recommended that, for the average driver, you should book your car in for a service at least once a year.

If you drive more than 15,000 miles per year, it’s a good idea to have your car serviced every 6 months.

Here’s a rough guideline for how often you should have the different types of car service done:

• Interim service – Every 6,000 miles or every 6 months

• Full service – Every year or every 12,000 miles

• Major service – Every 24,000 miles or every 2 years

  Benefits of regular servicing

Here are some of the reasons why it pays to have your car serviced regularly:

• Increase your vehicle’s lifespan by spotting small problems early and avoiding major issues

• Improve fuel efficiency as well-maintained vehicles often consume less fuel, which also saves you money

• Keep you and your car safe with regular checks that ensure your vehicle's brakes, tyres, and other safety features are in optimal condition

• Enjoy a smoother ride by keeping your vehicle running in the best condition possible

• Validate the warranty, as many vehicle warranties require regular servicing to remain valid

• Peace of mind that a professional has regularly inspected your car for issues (and fixed them)

  If you’re ready to get your car booked in for its next service, speak to experienced garage / vehicle services in SM1 today.

Need help finding the right local garage? Check out our guide with top tips for finding the best local garage near you.

Whether you can use any garage for your car warranty depends on the specific terms of your warranty contract.

For manufacturer's warranties

You can usually use any garage as long as they:

• Use manufacturer-approved parts
• Follow the manufacturer's service schedule

• Keep detailed records of the work carried out

  For extended warranties

The specific terms of your warranty contract will dictate whether or not you need to use specific approved garages. Some will let you use any VAT-registered garage.

Important note

Whichever type of car warranty you have, always check your warranty terms and conditions before booking in with a garage.

If in doubt, ask your warranty provider for a list of approved garages in your area and use one of them.

To ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and running smoothly, consider these tips when choosing a local garage / vehicle service in SM1:

• Check online reviews to determine their reputation and quality of work

• Ask about their experience with vehicle services, especially dealing with your specific make and model of vehicle

• Ensure they have public liability insurance to cover potential accidents or damages while they’re working on your vehicle

• Get multiple quotes from different garages in SM1 so you can compare prices and services

• Check for certifications and accreditations, such as the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)

• Ask if they offer a warranty on parts and labour for the services they offer

• Use Checkatrade and hire one of our approved members that have undergone up to 12 rigorous checks, so you can hire with confidence

  For more helpful advice, read our guide on finding the best local garage / vehicle services near you.

The time it takes to carry out a car service depends on the type of service and any additional repairs required.

As a general guide, here are estimated timings for common car services – actual times may vary:

• Interim service – 90 minutes

• Full service – 3-4 hours

  It’s worth noting that any complex repairs or parts that need to be ordered can extend the overall time to complete the service.

For accurate timings, discuss your car service with experienced local garages.

Want a quote for a car service? Use our free request a quote tool and we’ll get multiple approved vehicle / garage services in SM1 to contact you directly.

A car service is essential for keeping your vehicle in good working order. Regular servicing can help improve fuel efficiency, extend your car’s lifespan, and enhance overall performance.

Typically, there are three types of car service in the UK:

• Interim service – A basic check-up that usually involves changing your car’s oil and filter and inspecting key components like the brakes and tyres

• Full service – A more comprehensive inspection of your vehicle that will typically include replacing air filters and carrying out in-depth checks

• Major service – The most thorough service that will cover all the major components of your vehicle, including brake fluid, spark plugs, suspension, and fuel filters

  For tips and advice ahead of your vehicle servicing, check out our guide to preparing for a car service.

Need to find a decent local garage? Scroll up to browse our list of approved garage / vehicle services in SM1.