Keeping your vehicle in good working order is essential for both safety and reliability. While it may be tempting to delay a scheduled service, ignoring early warning signs can lead to expensive repairs or unexpected breakdowns. Whether it’s a warning light on the dashboard or a change in how your car drives, recognising these signs early can save you time, money, and stress. This guide outlines ten clear indicators that your car needs a service and explains why prompt attention is vital.
Why Regular Car Servicing Matters
Regular car servicing is essential for maintaining your vehicle’s overall performance and reliability. Key benefits include improved safety, cost efficiency, and extended vehicle lifespan. Servicing helps detect and fix issues early, reducing the risk of mechanical failure, brake problems, or tyre wear that could compromise your safety on the road. Keeping components in good working order also helps prevent costly repairs caused by neglect.
In most cases, it’s recommended to service your car every 10,000 to 15,000 kilometres or every six months, whichever comes first. Following this schedule ensures oil, filters, and fluids are replaced before they deteriorate, and that key systems such as brakes, battery, and suspension are thoroughly inspected. Staying on top of regular servicing not only maintains your warranty but also helps your car run smoothly for longer.
10 Signs Your Car Needs a Service Immediately
Cars often give early warning signs when something isn’t right. Ignoring these signs can lead to serious mechanical problems, safety risks, or unexpected breakdowns. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it’s a strong indication that your vehicle should be inspected by a qualified technician without delay.
1. Dashboard Warning Lights Are On
When a warning light appears on your dashboard, it’s your car’s way of signalling that something needs attention. Common alerts include the check engine light, oil pressure warning, and battery indicator. These lights are connected to the vehicle’s onboard diagnostics and may point to anything from low fluid levels to serious engine problems. Ignoring them can lead to further damage or safety risks, so it’s best to book a professional inspection straight away.
2. Unusual Noises While Driving
Unexpected noises such as squealing, grinding, knocking, or rattling often indicate mechanical issues. These sounds may come from the brakes, suspension, engine, or loose parts. For example, squealing while braking may suggest worn brake pads, while engine knocking could point to internal wear or low oil pressure. Any unfamiliar sound should be checked promptly to avoid further damage and ensure safe operation.
3. Strange Smells Inside or Around the Vehicle
Unusual odours often signal underlying problems. A burning smell may result from overheating parts or leaking fluids, like oil or coolant contacting hot engine surfaces. A sweet smell can indicate a coolant leak, while a strong petrol smell may point to a fuel system issue. Musty odours inside the cabin could suggest mould in the ventilation system. These smells may indicate mechanical faults or health hazards and should be addressed immediately.
4. Leaking Fluids Under the Vehicle
Puddles or stains under your parked car are clear signs of a leak. Different fluids have distinct colours and textures — engine oil is usually dark brown or black, coolant is often green or pink, and brake fluid is typically clear to yellowish. Fluid leaks can cause serious problems such as engine overheating, brake failure, or gearbox damage. A qualified mechanic can locate the source and fix the issue before it worsens.
5. Poor Fuel Efficiency
If you’re filling up more often without changing your driving habits, your vehicle may be running inefficiently. Poor fuel economy could be caused by issues with the air filter, tyre pressure, spark plugs, fuel system, or engine timing. A noticeable drop in efficiency often signals a mechanical fault affecting performance and emissions. Servicing your vehicle can help restore proper fuel usage and reduce strain on the engine.
6. Difficulty Starting the Engine
If your car is slow to start or doesn’t respond, it may be due to a weak battery, faulty starter motor, ignition issue, or fuel delivery problem. Occasional hesitation might seem minor, but frequent starting difficulties usually point to a worsening fault. Sluggish gear changes can also indicate transmission strain or delayed engine response. Timely servicing can identify the issue and help prevent unexpected breakdowns.
7. Vibrations or Pulling While Driving
Unusual vibrations or your car pulling to one side could indicate issues with wheel alignment, tyre wear, suspension system fatigue, or steering components. Vibrations through the steering wheel often signal tyre imbalance or uneven wear. Pulling to one side may result from misaligned wheels or brake problems. These issues affect handling and safety and should be addressed as soon as possible.
8. Decline in Brake Performance
If your brakes feel soft, take longer to stop the car, or make odd noises, it’s time for a check-up. Brake systems wear down with use and require regular attention. Worn pads, low fluid, or faulty components reduce stopping power and increase safety risks. If your brakes feel off, get them inspected promptly.
9. Smoke from Exhaust or Under the Bonnet
Smoke from the exhaust or engine bay often signals a serious issue. Blue smoke typically means the engine is burning oil, white smoke may suggest coolant leakage into the combustion chamber, and black smoke usually indicates excess fuel burning. Smoke under the bonnet may be caused by fluids leaking onto hot surfaces. These problems also indicate powertrain performance issues and require immediate attention to prevent engine damage or fire hazards.
10. Overdue for a Service by Time or Kilometres
Even if your car appears to be running well, exceeding the recommended service interval can lead to avoidable wear. Engine oil degrades, filters clog, and components wear over time. Manufacturers set service intervals to keep your vehicle running safely and efficiently. If you’re overdue, it’s wise to book a service to catch any hidden issues before they become serious.
What Happens During a Car Service?
A professional car service involves a thorough inspection and maintenance of your vehicle’s key systems to ensure it remains safe, reliable, and performing at its best. Depending on the type of service, qualified technicians carry out a range of checks, adjustments, and replacements to keep your car in top condition. Services may follow logbook servicing schedules recommended by the vehicle manufacturer, helping to maintain your warranty.
Brake System Inspection and Adjustments
The brake system is carefully inspected, including pads, discs, callipers, and fluid levels. Worn or damaged components are identified, and necessary adjustments or replacements are made to ensure optimal braking performance. This helps maintain effective stopping power and reduces the risk of brake failure.
Tyre Condition, Pressure, and Wheel Alignment
Tyres are checked for tread depth, wear patterns, and correct inflation. Uneven wear may point to suspension or alignment issues. Wheel alignment is assessed and adjusted if needed, improving handling, fuel economy, and overall road safety.
Battery and Electrical System Check
The battery is tested for charge level and performance. Terminals are checked for corrosion, and the electrical system including the alternator and starter motor is reviewed. A well-functioning battery and charging system help prevent problems such as starting issues or flickering lights.
Fluid Top-Ups and Leak Detection
Essential fluids including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid are checked and topped up. Any signs of leaks are identified and repaired. Maintaining correct fluid levels is crucial for preventing overheating and mechanical wear.
Lighting and Indicator Function Test
All lights, including headlights, brake lights, reverse lights, and indicators, are tested for proper operation. Faulty bulbs or wiring are repaired or replaced to ensure visibility and safe signalling while driving.
The Risks of Ignoring Car Servicing Signs
Delaying or ignoring the warning signs that your car needs attention can lead to significantly higher repair costs. Minor issues such as worn brake pads, low fluid levels, or a weak battery can quickly escalate into major mechanical failures if left unchecked. Problems that could have been resolved during a routine service may turn into expensive repairs, often involving the replacement of key components.
Skipping scheduled servicing may also void your manufacturer’s warranty, leaving you to cover the cost of repairs that would otherwise have been included.
Neglecting regular servicing also increases the risk of unexpected breakdowns. Faulty brakes, worn tyres, or engine problems can fail without warning, potentially leaving you stranded. More importantly, mechanical failures can pose a serious safety risk to you, your passengers, and other road users. A poorly maintained car is more likely to be involved in an accident due to reduced braking power, steering issues, or a loss of control. These are clear driveability issues that affect the safety and reliability of your vehicle. Staying on top of regular servicing is not just about reliability — it’s a key part of safe and responsible driving.
Trusted Car Servicing Backed by Local Expertise
Looking for reliable car servicing in Perth? At AME Automotive, we combine decades of experience with genuine local knowledge to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Our team uses the latest diagnostic tools and follows manufacturer-recommended procedures to ensure every service is thorough and tailored to your car’s specific needs.
Book your car service with AME Automotive today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common warning signs that my car needs a service?
Dashboard warning lights, unusual noises, fluid leaks, difficulty starting, and reduced brake performance are all common signs that your car needs servicing.
How can I tell the difference between minor car issues and serious problems?
Any change in how your car drives, sounds, or smells should be checked. When in doubt, it’s best to book a service to avoid potential risks.
Can I still drive if a warning light is on, or should I get a service immediately?
Some warning lights may not indicate an urgent issue, but continuing to drive with one illuminated is risky. It’s safest to arrange a service as soon as possible.
Is poor fuel economy a sign that my car needs servicing?
Yes. Poor fuel efficiency can indicate problems with the tyres, engine, or fuel system. A service can identify and resolve the issue.
How often should I get my car serviced to avoid major issues?
Most vehicles should be serviced every 10,000 to 15,000 kilometres or every six months — whichever comes first. Refer to your logbook for specific guidance.
