Keeping your car well-maintained is one of the most important responsibilities of vehicle ownership. Regular servicing ensures safety, performance, and reliability, while also protecting you from unexpected and costly breakdowns. For drivers in Surrey, booking a major car service in Guildford is a smart way to give your vehicle a full health check. The good news? Many garages now offer an affordable major service in Guildford, meaning you don’t have to spend a fortune to keep your car in top condition.

This guide will explain what a major car service involves, why it’s important, how often you need one, and how to find a trusted garage that delivers value for money in Guildford.

What is a Major Car Service?

A major service is the most comprehensive type of car service available. While an interim service is designed for high-mileage drivers and a full service covers around 60 checks annually, a major car service goes much further. It includes additional inspections, replacements, and fluid changes that keep your car running smoothly for the long term.

A typical major service includes:

• Oil and oil filter replacement – to protect and lubricate the engine.
  
  

• Air filter replacement – to ensure clean airflow to the engine.
  
  

• Fuel filter replacement – to keep the fuel system free of dirt and blockages.
  
  

• Spark plug replacement (for petrol engines) – ensuring smooth ignition.
  
  

• Brake fluid replacement – for responsive and safe braking.
  
  

• Coolant flush and refill – protecting your engine from overheating.
  
  

• Transmission fluid inspection – maintaining smooth gear changes.
  
  

• Comprehensive brake checks – pads, discs, and handbrake function.
  
  

• Steering and suspension checks – to ensure stability and comfort.
  
  

• Battery health test – avoiding unexpected breakdowns.
  
  

• Exhaust system inspection – ensuring emissions meet standards.
  
  

• Safety checks – including lights, seatbelts, and warning systems.
  
  

This detailed inspection not only keeps your vehicle roadworthy but also helps prevent bigger issues later.

How Often Should You Book a Major Car Service in Guildford?

Most manufacturers recommend a major service every 24 months or 24,000 miles, whichever comes first.

• City drivers who do shorter, stop-start journeys around Guildford may need servicing sooner due to increased wear on brakes and the engine.
  
  

• Motorway drivers may reach the mileage limit before two years.
  
  

Sticking to this schedule ensures your vehicle remains reliable and avoids costly repairs.

Why a Major Service is Important

Booking a major car service in Guildford is about more than ticking a box – it offers real benefits for drivers:

1. Safety First – Faulty brakes, worn tyres, or contaminated fluids can make your car unsafe. A major service helps identify and fix these risks.
   
   

2. Smoother Driving – Fresh fluids, spark plugs, and filters make your engine run more efficiently.
   
   

3. Preventing Breakdowns – Small issues caught early prevent major, expensive repairs.
   
   

4. Better Fuel Economy – A clean engine and healthy components reduce fuel consumption.
   
   

5. Boosts Resale Value – A car with a full service history, including regular major services, commands a higher price when you sell.
   
   

Major Car Service vs. Full Service

Many people confuse a full service with a major service. Here’s the difference:

• Full Service – Recommended every 12 months/12,000 miles. Includes oil changes, filters, brakes, tyres, suspension, and other general checks.
  
  

• Major Service – Recommended every 24 months/24,000 miles. Covers everything in a full service plus spark plugs, brake fluid, fuel filters, and coolant flush.
  
  

Think of the major service as a “deep clean” for your car, addressing the components that don’t need replacing as often.

Cost of a Major Car Service in Guildford

Prices for a major car service in Guildford vary depending on your car’s size, age, and manufacturer. On average, you can expect:

• Small cars: £200 – £250
  
  

• Family cars: £250 – £350
  
  

• Premium or large vehicles: £350 – £500+
  
  

If you’re looking for an affordable major service in Guildford, many local garages offer competitive rates and service packages. Some even include MOT testing at a discounted price when booked with a service.

Finding an Affordable Major Service in Guildford

Keeping costs down doesn’t mean compromising on quality. Here’s how to find value for money when booking your service:

1. Compare Prices – Call or check websites for local Guildford garages to see what’s included in their major service packages.
   
   

2. Check Reviews – Online feedback from real customers helps you identify honest, reliable garages.
   
   

3. Look for Offers – Many garages run seasonal promotions or discounts for combining an MOT with a service.
   
   

4. Ask About Genuine Parts – Affordable doesn’t mean cheap quality – ensure the garage uses manufacturer-approved or high-quality parts.
   
   

5. Choose Local – Independent garages in Guildford often offer more affordable major services than large national chains.
   
   

What to Expect During Your Major Service

When you book your major car service in Guildford, here’s what typically happens:

1. Initial Vehicle Assessment – The mechanic records details, mileage, and service history.
   
   

2. Comprehensive Checks – All key components are tested, including brakes, steering, suspension, tyres, and electrics.
   
   

3. Fluid Replacements – Engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, and other fluids are drained and replaced.
   
   

4. Filter & Spark Plug Changes – Replacements made where required.
   
   

5. Safety Testing – Lights, seatbelts, wipers, and dashboard warnings are checked.
   
   

6. Final Report – You’ll receive a detailed service record with recommendations for any further work.
   
   

Common Issues Found During Major Servicing

During a major car service in Guildford, mechanics often identify:

• Worn brake pads and discs.
  
  

• Low or contaminated brake fluid.
  
  

• Dirty or blocked filters.
  
  

• Worn spark plugs.
  
  

• Coolant system issues.
  
  

• Tyres below legal tread.
  
  

Fixing these problems early saves you money and ensures your vehicle is safe to drive.

Benefits of Booking an Affordable Major Service in Guildford

Choosing an affordable major service in Guildford gives you:

• Peace of Mind – Your vehicle is roadworthy and safe.
  
  

• Savings on Repairs – Preventative care costs less than emergency repairs.
  
  

• Increased Lifespan – Regular servicing extends the life of your engine and components.
  
  

• Improved Efficiency – A well-serviced car uses less fuel and runs smoother.
  
  

• Better Value at Resale – Full service history adds credibility when selling your car.
  
  

Final Thoughts – Reliable and Affordable Major Car Service in Guildford

Booking a major car service in Guildford is an investment in your car’s safety, efficiency, and long-term reliability. By servicing your car every two years or 24,000 miles, you avoid expensive breakdowns, keep running costs low, and enjoy smoother driving.

The best part? You don’t have to spend a fortune to get this peace of mind. With many garages offering an affordable major service in Guildford, it’s easier than ever to keep your vehicle in excellent condition.