08/03/2017
Ensuring your vehicle receives regular and appropriate servicing is paramount for its longevity, safety, and overall performance. Neglecting routine maintenance can lead to minor issues escalating into costly repairs, often catching you off guard. At Arnold Clark, we understand the critical role servicing plays in maintaining your car's health and helping you avoid unexpected breakdowns. We offer a comprehensive range of car servicing options designed to meet the diverse needs of every motorist, whether you drive a brand-new model or an older, trusted vehicle.
Our dedicated Service Centres are equipped to provide the highest standard of care for your car. We offer three primary types of service: the in-depth Manufacturer Service, and two tailored options under our Arnold’s Value Range – the Standard Service and the Major Service. Each option is designed with specific vehicle requirements and owner priorities in mind, ensuring you can choose the perfect level of care for your car.
The Importance of Following Manufacturer Service Schedules
It is always highly advisable to have your car serviced strictly according to the manufacturer’s recommended service schedules. These schedules are meticulously developed by the vehicle’s creators to ensure every component is inspected, adjusted, or replaced at the optimal time. Adhering to these guidelines is not just about keeping your car running; it’s about maintaining its peak efficiency, ensuring its safety features are fully functional, and often, preserving its resale value.
One of the most compelling reasons to follow these schedules is to prevent small, undetectable issues from developing into significant, expensive problems. A minor fluid leak, for instance, if not caught early during a routine check, could lead to severe engine damage down the line. Regular servicing acts as a form of preventative maintenance, identifying potential concerns before they become critical failures.
Manufacturer Service: Protecting Your Investment and Warranty
For many motorists, particularly those with newer vehicles, the question often arises: Does Arnold Clark offer a manufacturer service? The answer is a resounding yes. Arnold Clark Service Centres proudly offer a full Manufacturer Service, which is often a crucial requirement if your car is still under warranty. Opting for anything less might invalidate your warranty, leaving you exposed to the full cost of repairs should a manufacturing defect arise.
A Manufacturer Service is a much more extensive and detailed process compared to a standard check-up. It is carried out by highly skilled, manufacturer-trained technicians who possess an intimate knowledge of your specific vehicle's make and model. This expertise ensures that every aspect of your car is inspected and serviced in strict adherence to the precise specifications set by the original manufacturer.
Key benefits of choosing an Arnold Clark Manufacturer Service include:
- Warranty Preservation: Essential for keeping your vehicle’s warranty valid.
- Genuine Parts Usage: Only genuine manufacturer parts are used for any replacements, guaranteeing optimal fit, performance, and durability.
- Expert Technicians: Work is performed by technicians specifically trained by the vehicle manufacturer.
- Comprehensive Inspections: A thorough examination covering all manufacturer-specified checks and adjustments.
- Service History Maintenance: Your car's service history is meticulously maintained, which is vital for resale value.
- Parts Warranty: All fitted parts come with a 12–24 month warranty for added peace of mind.
It’s important to note that Manufacturer Service schedules and specific checks can vary significantly from one manufacturer to another, and even between different models and ages of cars. At Arnold Clark, our Manufacturer Services are meticulously tailored to your vehicle’s age, make, and mileage. We highly recommend speaking to one of our service advisors, or directly with one of our 26 different car manufacturer service departments, to get the precise details relevant to your specific vehicle.
Arnold’s Value Range: Quality Servicing for Older Vehicles
While the Manufacturer Service is ideal for newer cars, Arnold Clark also caters to vehicles that are three years or older, or those with less than six cylinders, through our specially designed Arnold’s Value Range. This range offers two excellent, cost-effective servicing options: the Standard Service and the Major Service, both providing comprehensive care without compromising on quality.
Standard Service: The Annual Essential Check
The Standard Service is recommended annually, at 12-month intervals, to ensure your car remains in good running order. It covers essential checks and adjustments that are vital for day-to-day driving safety and performance. This service is perfect for maintaining the health of your car between more comprehensive services or for vehicles that have passed their warranty period.
During a Standard Service, our technicians will meticulously inspect and address the following key areas:
- Lights: All exterior and interior lights checked for functionality.
- Fluid Levels: Engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and screen wash levels checked and topped up as required.
- Handbrake: Adjustment and functionality tested.
- Brake System: Brake pads, shoes, pipes, and lines thoroughly inspected for wear and damage.
- Wipers: Wiper blades checked for effectiveness and replaced if necessary.
- Suspension Dampers: Inspected for leaks and overall condition.
Major Service: The Bi-Annual Comprehensive Overhaul
For a more in-depth assessment and maintenance, the Major Service is recommended every 24 months. This service encompasses all the checks included in the Standard Service, plus a range of additional crucial inspections and replacements that contribute to the long-term health and efficiency of your vehicle. It’s designed to address components that require less frequent attention but are critical for your car’s optimal operation.
In addition to all Standard Service items, a Major Service typically includes:
- Clutch Cable Freeplay: Checked and adjusted for smooth gear changes.
- Air Filter: A new air filter fitted to ensure optimal engine breathing and fuel efficiency.
- Fuel Treatment: An additive is included to help clean the fuel system.
- Air Conditioning System: Checked for functionality and efficiency.
- Spark Plugs: New spark plugs fitted (where applicable) for efficient combustion.
- Fuel Filter: A new fuel filter fitted (where applicable) to ensure clean fuel delivery to the engine.
- Wheel Alignment: Checked to ensure even tyre wear and stable handling.
Comparing Arnold Clark Service Options
To help you decide which service is right for your vehicle, here's a comparative overview of the three options available at Arnold Clark Service Centres:
| Service Type | Recommended Interval | Target Vehicles | Key Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer Service | As per manufacturer schedule (varies) | All vehicles, especially those under warranty | Comprehensive manufacturer-specific checks, genuine parts, manufacturer-trained technicians, warranty preservation, tailored to age/make/mileage. |
| Standard Service | 12 months | Vehicles 3+ years old, <6 cylinders (Arnold's Value Range) | Lights, fluid levels, handbrake, brake pads/shoes/pipes/lines, wipers, suspension dampers. |
| Major Service | 24 months | Vehicles 3+ years old, <6 cylinders (Arnold's Value Range) | All Standard Service items PLUS clutch cable freeplay, new air filter, fuel treatment, A/C check, new spark plugs/fuel filter (where applicable), wheel alignment. |
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Servicing at Arnold Clark
Why should I choose a manufacturer service?
A Manufacturer Service is highly recommended if your car is still under warranty, as it ensures the warranty remains valid. It also guarantees that your vehicle is serviced by manufacturer-trained technicians using genuine parts, preserving its performance, safety, and service history according to the highest standards.
When should I get my car serviced?
It is always best to follow the manufacturer's recommended service schedule, which can be found in your car's handbook. Generally, a Standard Service is recommended every 12 months, and a Major Service every 24 months, particularly for cars in Arnold's Value Range. Manufacturer services will have specific intervals tailored to your make and model.
What is Arnold's Value Range?
Arnold's Value Range is a specially designed servicing option for cars that are three years old or older, or those with less than six cylinders. It provides two cost-effective yet comprehensive service types: the Standard Service (annual) and the Major Service (bi-annual), ensuring older vehicles receive quality care.
How do I know which service is right for my car?
The best way to determine the most suitable service for your car is to consult with one of our experienced service advisors. They can assess your vehicle's age, mileage, warranty status, and your driving habits to recommend either a Manufacturer Service, Standard Service, or Major Service that best fits your needs and budget.
Can I void my warranty by not getting a manufacturer service?
Yes, in most cases, failing to adhere to the manufacturer's service schedule or opting for a service that doesn't meet their specifications (e.g., not using genuine parts or manufacturer-trained technicians) can indeed void your car's warranty. This is why a Manufacturer Service is crucial for newer vehicles.
Your Next Step: Consult Our Experts
Choosing the right car service is a decision that impacts your vehicle's health, your safety on the road, and your financial outlay in the long term. At Arnold Clark, we are committed to providing transparent, high-quality car servicing that gives you complete peace of mind.
We encourage you to talk to one of our service advisors about the different types of car service we offer. They are on hand to provide expert guidance, clarify any queries you may have, and help you select the ideal servicing plan tailored specifically for your vehicle’s needs. Ensure your car receives the professional care it deserves by booking your service with Arnold Clark today.
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