Complete Guide On Car Repair & Service

Like humans, cars need care and attention too. This comes in the form of repairs and services, a type of car care that can be found at your local car service centre.

Your responsibility as an owner is to get your car repaired and serviced at the right time. 

But what happens when you don’t? How bad are the consequences?

Here’s everything you need to know and more:

Why Is It Needed?

Regular servicing is like a health check-up. It points out and addresses issues, ensuring your car remains in top condition.

This can prevent problems like engine failures, increased fuel consumption and unexpected breakdowns. 

Additionally, these problems can lead to more expensive problems down the road. A car service also ensures safety and comfort while driving.

Your car will be better prepared for travel, you’ll feel more confident and everyone around you can feel safe too.

Common Car Problems & Symptoms

A car service should be able to point out and address these issues. This includes: 

• Strange Noises: Squealing when braking may indicate worn-out brake pads. Strange noises can also come from the engine (knocking sounds) or gears (grinding noises). This could indicate low oil levels or transmission problems respectively.
  
  

• Dashboard Warning Lights: Warning lights usually indicate underlying problems. It’s your car’s way of telling you something is wrong. Understanding dashboard warning lights will give you a better idea of what’s wrong with your vehicle.
  
  

• Vibration or Steering Issues: Vibrations in the steering wheel are also signs of trouble. If your car pulls to one side, your wheel alignment may be off, or your tyre pressure might be uneven.
  
  

• Engine Stalling: Slow starts and engine stalling is usually caused by a dying battery. You may need a battery replacement to get your car running smoothly again. Other common culprits include a clogged fuel filter, weak fuel pump or dirty injectors.
  
  

• Leaking Radiator: Your radiator is responsible for cooling the engine. A leak usually points to corrosion or a damaged hose, causing coolant to drip out. Sometimes, the leak can be so small that it goes unnoticed, also known as a slow leak.
  
  

• Increased Fuel Consumption: Increased fuel consumption can be caused by many factors. This includes bad engine oil, blockages and faulty fuel injectors. These problems can cause your engine to work harder, burning more fuel than necessary. 

How Often Should You Service Your Car?

Different cars require different servicing periods. Nonetheless, a general rule of thumb is to service your car once every six months or every 10,000km whichever comes first. Other key factors to consider include your mileage and the age of your car. 

Some cars, if driven regularly, should be serviced based on mileage rather than time. The same can be said if your car is older, as they require more servicing compared to newer cars. Harsh environments like heavy traffic can also warrant more frequent car maintenance. 

How Much Does a Car Service Cost? 

In Singapore, a typical car service for every 10,000km can cost between $250 to $300. As mentioned, certain factors can affect the pricing of your service. This includes your car’s make and model. 

The type of service required and your last visit to the workshop will also determine the pricing. This and more can affect how much you’ll end up paying, which can add up to $500 and beyond.

What Is Usually Included in Car Repair Service?

A car service comprises different sub services that maintain the overall condition of your car. Depending on the current state of your car, you may need a specific maintenance task or the full service.

Here are some of the services we offer at Motoserv: 

• Engines & Fluid Check: A standard service includes an engine oil change and oil filter replacement to ensure smooth operation and prevent wear. Coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid and power steering fluid are also checked and refilled if necessary.
  
  

• Brake System & Safety Features: Your braking system is one of the most critical components in your vehicle. Our service includes a braking system inspection, where we check the brake pads, discs and brake fluid levels to ensure proper stopping power.

  We also inspect seat belts to ensure they function correctly in case of a collision. 
  
  

• Steering, Suspension & Tyres: Steering testing includes checking for any stiffness, looseness or misalignment. The suspension system is inspected for worn-out shocks or struts that could affect handling and ride comfort.

  Tyre inspections are also performed to check for proper tread depth, air pressure and any signs of damage. 
  
  

• Electrical & Lighting System: We inspect all lights, including headlights, brake lights, signal indicators and fog lights. A faulty light could make you less visible on the road, increasing the risk of accidents.

  We also test horn operation, inspect washer jets for proper water spray and check the windshield wipers. 
  
  

• Cooling & Air Filtration System: Singapore’s hot and humid weather makes a properly functioning heating and cooling system essential. The engine air filter is also checked to prevent dust and debris from clogging the system.

  Additionally, the cabin filter is inspected to ensure clean airflow inside your car.

How to Choose the Right Place for Your Car

You can tell a good auto service centre from a bad one based on reputation and feedback. Get recommendations from family and friends, or look for reviews online. A workshop with good online presence is another sign of trustworthiness. 

A well developed website and good social media presence shows their commitment to customer engagement. Proximity from your usual location (work or home) should also be a determining factor. This will make it easier for you to drop off and pick up your car. 

Do I Go Official or Local Workshop

It depends on your priorities. If your car is still under warranty or you prefer manufacturer-backed services, an official dealership is the safer choice. 

However, if you want a budget-friendly option with personalised service, an independent workshop can be just as reliable—just make sure they have the right credentials and good customer reviews. 

Understanding Car Warranties & Insurance

A car warranty is a manufacturer’s guarantee that covers damages to your vehicle for a set period. Most new cars in Singapore come with a 3 to 5-year warranty, depending on the brand. 

If your car is damaged within this period, you can always send it for repairs without paying additional cost (provided the damage falls under the warranty). On the other hand, car insurance is designed to protect you financially in case of accidents, theft or third-party damages. 

While a warranty covers manufacturing defects and faulty parts, insurance helps cover repair costs for accidents, natural disasters and other unforeseen incidents.

How to Avoid Unnecessary Repairs & Scams

Not all repairs are necessary. Some workshops may try to upsell services or  parts you don’t actually need. Avoid failing for scams with these tips: 

• Research common car issues related to your vehicle’s model. Understanding basic car maintenance can help you spot unnecessary recommendations.
  
  
• If a workshop recommends an expensive repair, consult another mechanic for a second opinion. Some workshops may exaggerate issues to increase your bill. 
  
  
• Always request breakdown of parts and labour costs before agreeing to any service. Compare the prices with other workshops to ensure you’re not being overcharged.
  
  
• Some workshops may claim a repair is critical when it isn’t. Unless it’s a safety-related issue (e.g., brakes or engine failure), take your time to verify the necessity of the repair.
  
  
• A common scam is replacing parts that are still in good condition. Ask to see the faulty parts before they are replaced to see if the changes were necessary.

Emergency Repairs vs Preventive Maintenance

Should you just wait till your car breaks down before fixing it? Or should you be proactive and get it fixed sooner before things get worse? At the end of the day, prioritising preventive maintenance can be the difference between paying a small fee now or a hefty bill later.

Preventive maintenance helps detect and resolve problems early. This will help keep your car in better condition for years to come. When emergencies do arise, it’s important to act fast—delaying repairs could lead to bigger damage or even accidents.