Regular car servicing is one of the smartest investments you can make in the long-term health of your vehicle — yet it’s also one many Aussie drivers tend to overlook. Between busy schedules, uncertain service schedules, and the belief that “she’ll be right”, servicing often gets pushed back longer than it should.
The question is: how often should you service your car? Is it every six months, every 10,000 km — or only when a problem pops up? The answer depends on several factors, from how and where you drive to what type of car you own.
In this guide, we break down expert-backed car servicing intervals, explain why timely servicing is essential for keeping your warranty, resale value and driving safety intact, and show you how to create a realistic schedule that protects both your wallet and your vehicle.
Why Regular Car Servicing Matters
It’s easy to assume your car is running fine just because nothing feels wrong — but modern engines are complex, and wear-and-tear happens behind the scenes well before obvious issues appear.
Servicing isn’t just about oil changes. It’s about early detection and prevention.
-
Maintains safety systems (brakes, steering, suspension)
-
Protects the engine from internal build-up and wear
-
Saves money by preventing bigger, more expensive failures
-
Maintains manufacturer’s warranty and resale value
Skipping services may not cause immediate damage, but it almost guarantees bigger issues, breakdowns, or costly component replacements down the track.
Trusted Parts Matter: Why Buy from Aus Auto Store?
When servicing your vehicle, using quality replacement parts can be the difference between smooth performance and a costly repair. That’s where Aus Auto Store delivers peace of mind — providing genuine and high-grade aftermarket parts built for Australian conditions.
With secure online ordering, fast tracked delivery and a massive range of components for most major makes and models, Aus Auto Store makes it easy to source the right parts when you or your mechanic need them — without blowing the budget.
Standard Servicing vs Logbook Servicing
Not all servicing is the same. Understanding the difference helps you choose the right schedule for your vehicle.
Standard (Basic) Service
-
Oil change
-
Oil filter replacement
-
Top-up of fluids (coolant, brake fluid, screen wash)
-
Basic safety checks
Logbook (Scheduled) Service
-
Follows the manufacturer’s detailed service plan
-
Includes component checks, replacements and system updates
-
Essential to maintain warranty compliance while under manufacturer cover
If your car is still under warranty, logbook servicing with a licensed workshop is essential. If your car is older, a standard or tailored service at a trusted mechanic may be more suitable.
Recommended Service Intervals: Time vs Kilometres
Most servicing schedules are based on whichever comes first — time or distance travelled. A typical Australian guideline looks like this:
|
Vehicle Age |
Frequency (Time) |
Distance (km) |
|
New – 5 yrs |
Every 6–12 months |
10,000–15,000 km |
|
5–10 yrs |
Every 6 months |
10,000 km |
|
10+ yrs |
Every 6 months |
5,000–7,500 km |
Time-Based Servicing
Even if you don’t drive much, oil and fluids break down over time. Rubber seals dry out. Dust gets in. Service-time intervals are crucial for engines that sit idle a lot or mostly do short trips.
Kilometre-Based Servicing
Cars driven frequently — especially for long-distance travel — clock up kilometres fast and wear moving parts quicker. Servicing by distance ensures you stay ahead of that wear.
How Your Driving Style Affects Service Timing
Not all driving is equal. The harder you are on your vehicle, the more regularly you should service it.
Heavy or Harsh Use
-
Frequent towing or heavy loads
-
Off-road driving or corrugated roads
-
High-heat conditions or constant short trips
Recommendation: Service every 6 months or 5,000–10,000 km
Light & Highway Use
-
Mostly highway cruising
-
Minimal stop/start
-
Smooth conditions
Recommendation: Every 12 months or 15,000 km (for newer vehicles)
Urban Stop/Start Driving
-
City driving
-
Short daily trips
-
Heavy traffic and idling
Recommendation: Every 6–9 months or 10,000 km
Types of Services: What Gets Checked?
Understanding what happens during different service types will help you know what to expect — and what you’re paying for.
Minor Service
-
Engine oil and filter change
-
Replacement of basic fluids
-
Visual inspection of brakes, belts and hoses
-
Tyre wear and pressure check
Major Service
-
Spark plug replacement
-
Air/fuel/cabin filter changes
-
Brake flush, coolant flush
-
Suspension and steering check
-
Diagnostic scan
Major services are usually scheduled every 40,000–60,000 km, depending on the manufacturer.
Importance of Following Your Logbook
If your car is still under warranty, your logbook clearly outlines what needs to be serviced and when. Missing scheduled services can result in:
-
Warranty being voided
-
Dealers refusing to cover faults
-
Loss of resale value
You don’t have to go back to the dealership — independent mechanics can service your car as long as they follow the logbook and use approved parts and fluids.
Can You Service Your Own Car?
Some owners with mechanical confidence like to perform basic servicing at home — and as long as the car is out of warranty, this can be safe and cost-effective.
Tasks you can often DIY:
-
Oil and filter change
-
Air filter replacement
-
Spark plug replacement
-
Battery swap
However, you should always record dates, kilometres and parts used. For deeper jobs (timing belts, brake systems), it’s best left to qualified mechanics. When sourcing your own replacement parts, make sure you stick with reputable Australian suppliers to guarantee compatibility and reliability.
Signs You’re Overdue for a Service
Even without checking your logbook, your car will usually tell you it's ready for a trip to the mechanic.
-
Engine warning lights on the dashboard
-
Rough idling or sluggish accelerating
-
Excess smoke from exhaust
-
Brakes squeaking or steering pulling
-
Poor fuel economy
If you notice any of these signs, schedule your service immediately — don’t wait for your next “due” date.
Buy Quality Parts for Servicing from Aus Auto Store
When it’s time to replace filters, plugs, fluids or sensors during servicing, Aus Auto Store has you covered with a massive range of high-quality OEM and aftermarket parts at competitive prices. Ordering parts online lets you control costs, choose better brands, and get fast delivery direct to your door or mechanic.
Skip the guesswork of cheap overseas imports — shop locally with Aus Auto Store and get parts you can actually trust under your bonnet.
Benefits of Sticking to a Good Service Schedule
Following the manufacturer’s recommended servicing does more than just keep your car on the road.
-
Avoids major engine failure and breakdowns
-
Increases vehicle lifespan
-
Keeps you safer on the road
-
Maintains market resale value
-
Reduces fuel consumption over time
Cost of Servicing: What to Expect
Service prices in Australia can range dramatically depending on your vehicle and what’s included.
|
Service Type |
Price Range (AUD) |
|
Minor/basic |
$200 – $450 |
|
Major |
$500 – $1,200+ |
Luxury, European and turbocharged vehicles usually cost more. DIY servicing can reduce labour costs, but only if done correctly using compatible, high-quality parts.
How to Create Your Perfect Servicing Schedule
Everyone’s driving habits are different, which means your service schedule should match how you actually use your car.
Step 1 — Check Your Logbook
See what the manufacturer recommends as your starting point.
Step 2 — Consider Your Driving Habits
Do you tow? Drive in traffic? Go off-road?
Step 3 — Set a Reminder
Use your phone calendar, fridge magnet or diary to remind yourself of upcoming services.
Step 4 — Track Your Kilometres
Especially important if you do lots of long-distance or fleet driving.
Conclusion
So, how often should you service your car? In most cases, every six months or 10,000–15,000 km — whichever comes first — is the safest and most cost-effective rule of thumb in Australia. That said, harsher driving conditions, towing loads, city traffic and older vehicles may require servicing more frequently.
Sticking to a reliable service schedule protects your engine, keeps your warranty secure, and saves you money over time. Whether you service your car through a mechanic or handle basic maintenance at home, sourcing quality parts from reputable suppliers like Aus Auto Store ensures every job is done right — helping your vehicle run smoother for longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it OK to service my car once a year?
Yes — but only if it’s a newer vehicle, in good condition, driven lightly or mostly on highways. Once-a-year servicing isn’t recommended if the car is over five years old or driven daily.
What happens if I wait too long between services?
Fluid breakdown, engine wear, increased risk of failure and potentially voided warranty claims. Delays cost more in the long run.
Can I keep my warranty if I use an independent mechanic?
Yes — as long as the mechanic follows the manufacturer’s logbook and uses approved parts/fluids, your warranty stays intact.
Are DIY services worth it?
DIY servicing can save money, but only if done correctly and you keep proper records. Always ensure safety-critical jobs are handled professionally.
What makes servicing costs vary so much?
Vehicle type, parts required, service complexity and location. European and turbo vehicles typically require more labour and expensive components.