Major Vs Minor Car Service: What’s Included And What Does It Cost?

Car service is important to keep your vehicle’s engine efficient and driving dependably. However, many people get confused when choosing between major and minor services. Is a major service more than just an oil change?

Is a minor service just a quick car checkup? Knowing the difference can help you choose the right service for your vehicle. In this blog, we'll explain both, what each includes, and which service your car needs.

What Is Major Car Service And What Is Included?

A major car mechanical service is a planned, thorough procedure that includes a complete technical inspection of all vital car parts and systems to ensure safety and performance and prevent expensive, unexpected repairs.

In the UAE, regular servicing is essential, especially when extreme temperatures and dusty particles put extra stress on vehicles. In a major service, professionals prioritize parts often overlooked in minor servicing.

Listed below are the things checked in a major service:

• Full engine diagnostics
• Steering, brakes, and suspension assessment
• Spark plug replacements
• Battery health checks
• Transmission checks
• Car oil services and complete fluid change - coolant, transmission oil, brake fluid, and power steering fluid
• Air and cabin filter replacements
• Scanning of electrical systems
• Tire condition checks and rotation for uneven wear

Regular major servicing helps identify developing problems and keeps your vehicle performing reliably.

What Is Minor Car Service And What Is Included?

A minor service differs from a major service because it keeps your vehicle's essential systems in good order so it runs smoothly day-to-day. This helps you catch small problems early and reduces the risk of serious damage, especially in the UAE's demanding, dusty, hot conditions.

This service is designed to be more manageable in time and cost, and it is vital for maintaining consistent durability between major service intervals. Things included in minor servicing are:

• Exchange of oil filter and tuning of engine oil
• Checking the braking system for safety
• Top up essential fluids, such as brake, coolant, and windshield
• Examine battery health
• Testing of car tyres and balancing of pressure
• Checking hoses and belts for wear

When Should You Get A Minor Car Service?

In the UAE, most vehicles require a minor service around 10,000 km, but if you drive in heavy traffic or extreme temperatures, you may want to have it done earlier.

When Should You Get A Major Car Service?

In the UAE, you should schedule a major service, with manufacturers generally recommending it every 20,000 to 40,000 km or once every two years. But if you often take long trips or do off-road activities, ask your auto repair shop what the correct service interval is, since harsh desert conditions can speed up wear and tear.

Major Vs Minor Car Service: How Much Does It Cost In The UAE?

Minor car servicing in the UAE costs between AED 250 and AED 1200, while major servicing costs between AED 1200 and AED 4000 or more. The price depends on your car type and whether you choose an independent garage or a specialist servicing center.

Major Vs Minor Car Service: Key Differences

How To Know Which Car Service Your Vehicle Needs

Here are some signs that can indicate the servicing your vehicle needs:

If you notice the following, your car needs a minor service:

• Engine oil looks dirty
• Slight vibrations
• Reduced fuel efficiency
• Dashboard warning lights
• Strange noises

If you notice the following, your car needs a major service:

• Difficulty starting the engine
• Strong vibrations
• Brake issues or noises
• Poor acceleration
• Engine overheating

Conclusion

If you want to look after your vehicle properly without missing any essential maintenance, then understanding the difference between a major vs minor car service in the UAE is useful.

Minor servicing covers routine maintenance tasks, while major servicing includes a detailed inspection and addresses additional scheduled requirements. In addition to servicing your car based on the mileage mentioned in the blog, watch for the signs above to prevent costly damage.

If you are unsure whether your vehicle needs major or minor servicing, don't wait for a small issue to become expensive. Contact us at Tire.ae for a professional vehicle inspection and service advice based on your car’s maintenance requirements and condition.