Regular car servicing is one of the most impactful ways to keep your vehicle safe, reliable, and efficient, whether you drive a new car under factory warranty or an older vehicle you’ve owned for years.
For NSW drivers, understanding service intervals and what’s involved can mean the difference between trouble-free motoring and costly repairs.
Let’s break down what you need to know about car service scheduling in New South Wales.
What Is Car Servicing and Why Does It Matter?
Car servicing is the routine inspection and maintenance of your vehicle’s essential components, from the engine oil and oil filter to the brake fluid, spark plugs, tyre pressure, and windscreen wipers. It includes both minor services (every 10,000–15,000 km or 6–12 months) and major services (more comprehensive checks every 30,000–60,000 km).
Regular servicing extends your car’s life, helps maintain optimal performance, and keeps it in good shape for resale. It also plays a vital role in safety, reliability, and passenger security on NSW roads.
How Often Should You Service Your Car?
Most manufacturers recommend servicing your car every 6 to 12 months or every 10,000 to 15,000 kilometres, whichever comes first.
- New cars: Typically require a minor service around 10,000 km or six months after purchase, with continued servicing as per the logbook.
- Older or used cars: May benefit from more frequent visits (e.g., every 5,000–10,000 km), especially if driven in demanding conditions like city traffic or on rough country roads.
- Manufacturer’s schedule: Always check your car’s logbook, it details the exact intervals and what work is required at each visit.
Service intervals are not just about mileage. Time also counts, fluids degrade, rubber perishes, and components can fail even if the car isn’t driven much.
What’s Involved in Minor and Major Services?
| Service Type | What’s Included | Typical Interval |
| Minor Service | Oil & filter change, fluid top-ups (brake, coolant, power steering), tyre pressure checks, battery check, wiper blade and light inspection, general safety check | 10,000–15,000 km or 6–12 months |
| Major Service | All minor items plus air/fuel filter replacement, spark plugs, brake pad inspection/change, wheel alignment, steering & suspension checks, and more as per manufacturer | 30,000–60,000 km or every few years |
Qualified mechanics use this structured approach to catch potential issues before they become costly repairs.
Why Follow the Manufacturer’s Schedule?
Sticking to your car manufacturer’s recommended schedule is crucial. It keeps your factory warranty (for new cars) or extended warranty (if applicable) valid.
A common myth: You must service at the dealership to keep warranty. In fact, the ACCC clearly states that as long as a qualified mechanic follows the manufacturer’s specifications and uses genuine parts (or equivalent), your warranty is protected.
However, using a local mechanic or independent workshop means you must keep detailed records, service invoices and your logbook, especially if you plan to sell later.
How Regular Servicing Saves You Money
- Prevents costly repairs: Early detection of worn brakes, tyres, and steering can prevent major breakdowns.
- Improves fuel economy: Clean oil, fresh filters, and correct tyre pressure all contribute to lower fuel consumption.
- Maintains resale value: A car with a full service history is worth more and easier to sell.
- Keeps insurance simple: Some comprehensive car insurers may review your service history when assessing claims, especially if poor maintenance contributed to the incident or vehicle failure. However, Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance in NSW. your legally required green slip, does not require proof of regular servicing to maintain coverage
Skipping servicing may seem like a way to save money short-term, but it often leads to higher costs down the road, both in repairs and lost resale value.
Choosing Where to Service Your Car
You have options:
- Dealerships: Use original parts, adhere strictly to the manufacturer’s schedule, and provide warranty documentation, ideal for new cars.
- Local mechanic: Often more affordable, but you must ensure they use genuine parts and follow the logbook schedule.
- Specialist workshops: Can offer expert care for specific models or components.
Whichever you choose, always keep your logbook updated and store receipts; these are evidence of regular maintenance if you ever need to make a warranty claim or sell your car.
Signs Your Car Needs a Service Sooner Than Scheduled
Don’t ignore these red flags:
- Reduced braking or strange noises
- Poor fuel economy
- Warning lights on the dashboard
- Worn wipers or loose steering
- Rough idling or unusual noises
If you notice any of these, consult a qualified mechanic as soon as possible—taking care of small issues early prevents bigger problems later.
Summary Table: Service Intervals Overview
| Vehicle Type | Minor Service | Major Service | Notes |
| New Car | 10,000 km / 6 months | 30,000–60,000 km / 3–5yrs | Follow logbook, keep warranty |
| Used/Older Car | 5,000–10,000 km / 6m–1yr | 30,000–60,000 km / 3–5yrs | More frequent if harsh use |
| All Vehicles | As per logbook | As per logbook | Time or distance—whichever comes first |
Final Thoughts
Regular car servicing is a non-negotiable part of responsible car ownership in NSW. Most manufacturers recommend every 6–12 months or 10,000–15,000 km, but always check your logbook. Servicing keeps your car in optimal performance, preserves your warranty, saves money on fuel and repairs, and ensures safety for you and your passengers.
Invest in regular servicing; it’s a small price for peace of mind, reliability, and security on the road. Whether you choose a dealer, local mechanic, or specialist, make sure the work is done to manufacturer standards and document everything. Your future self (and your wallet) will thank you.
At Greenslips 4 Earth, we support NSW drivers with clear, practical advice on vehicle safety and maintenance, helping you protect your investment and drive confidently every day.
