29/09/2013
If you're part of the Motability scheme, you'll know it offers a fantastic way to lease a car, scooter, or powered wheelchair, making mobility accessible. A common question that arises for many users is: "Does my Motability car need regular servicing?" The straightforward answer is a resounding yes. Regular servicing is not just recommended; it's a fundamental requirement of your Motability lease agreement and absolutely essential for keeping your vehicle safe, reliable, and in good working order. Ignoring servicing can lead to unexpected breakdowns, costly repairs, and even potential issues with your lease.
Why is Servicing So Important for Motability Vehicles?
The Motability scheme operates on the principle that your vehicle is a vital tool for your independence and well-being. Therefore, maintaining its condition is paramount. Here's why regular servicing is so critical:
1. Safety First
Your safety and the safety of others on the road are the absolute top priorities. Regular servicing ensures that critical components like brakes, tyres, steering, and lights are functioning correctly. A thorough inspection can identify potential issues before they become dangerous faults. For instance, worn brake pads or underinflated tyres can significantly impact your ability to stop safely, especially in an emergency. Peace of mind is a significant benefit of keeping your car properly maintained.
2. Reliability and Preventing Breakdowns
A breakdown can be incredibly disruptive, particularly if you rely on your vehicle for essential journeys, such as medical appointments or visiting friends and family. Routine servicing involves checking and topping up essential fluids (like engine oil and coolant), inspecting belts and hoses for wear, and ensuring the engine is running efficiently. These preventative measures significantly reduce the risk of unexpected mechanical failures, keeping you moving and avoiding inconvenience.
3. Maintaining Your Lease Agreement
Your Motability lease agreement will explicitly state the requirement for regular servicing. Failure to adhere to these terms can have consequences, potentially leading to charges for excessive wear and tear or even impacting your eligibility to continue with the scheme. Most lease agreements stipulate that the vehicle must be serviced according to the manufacturer's recommended schedule. Keeping up with servicing is your responsibility as the primary user of the vehicle.
4. Fuel Efficiency and Performance
A well-maintained car is a more efficient car. Regular servicing, which often includes air filter replacement and spark plug checks, can help your engine run more smoothly. This translates to better fuel economy, saving you money on petrol or diesel. It also ensures your car performs at its best, providing a more comfortable and responsive driving experience.
5. Resale Value (Although not directly applicable to the lease)
While you don't own the car under the Motability scheme, maintaining a good service history is still beneficial. If, at any point, you were to consider purchasing the car at the end of your lease, a full service history would undoubtedly enhance its value. More importantly, it reflects your responsible stewardship of the vehicle.
What Does a Typical Motability Car Service Include?
The exact services performed will depend on the age and mileage of your car, and whether it's a minor or major service. However, most routine services will cover:
- Engine Oil and Filter Change: Crucial for lubricating the engine and removing impurities.
- Brake Inspection: Checking brake pads, discs, fluid levels, and hydraulic system.
- Tyre Check: Inspecting tread depth, pressure, and for any signs of wear or damage.
- Fluid Levels: Topping up or checking coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windscreen washer fluid.
- Lights and Electrics: Ensuring all lights (headlights, taillights, indicators) and electrical components are working correctly.
- Exhaust System Check: Looking for leaks or damage.
- Battery Test: Checking the battery's health and charge.
- Wiper Blades and Windscreen: Ensuring clear visibility.
- Suspension and Steering: Basic checks for wear and tear.
A more comprehensive service might also include replacing the air filter, cabin filter, and spark plugs, as well as more in-depth checks of the transmission and cooling system.
When Should My Motability Car Be Serviced?
The most accurate guide for when your car needs servicing is its manufacturer's service schedule. This is usually found in the owner's manual that came with your car. Motability works with various manufacturers, and each has its own recommendations based on time (e.g., annually) or mileage (e.g., every 10,000 or 12,000 miles), whichever comes first. It's vital to check your manual or contact your dealership/Motability specialist to confirm the specific intervals for your vehicle.
Motability also sends out reminders when your car is due for its service, which is incredibly helpful. Don't ignore these reminders!
Who Carries Out the Servicing?
Typically, your Motability car will need to be serviced by an authorised dealership for the brand of your car or a garage approved by your Motability leasing provider. This ensures that the work is carried out by trained technicians using the correct parts and procedures. When you receive your vehicle, you will be provided with information on where and how to book your services.
It's important to book your service well in advance, especially if you have specific dates or times you need to attend appointments. Contacting the dealership or your leasing provider's service department as soon as you receive your service reminder is the best approach.
What About Tyre Replacement?
Tyre wear is a significant safety concern and is also covered under the Motability scheme. If your tyres are nearing the legal tread depth limit (which is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tread), you should arrange for them to be replaced. Your Motability agreement usually includes tyre replacement as part of the package, provided they are replaced due to normal wear and tear. You'll need to arrange this through your dealership or designated tyre supplier, as specified by Motability.
Table: Service Intervals (General Guidance)
This table provides general guidance. Always refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for precise intervals.
| Type of Service | Typical Interval (Time) | Typical Interval (Mileage) | Key Checks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minor Service | 12 months | 10,000 - 12,000 miles | Oil, oil filter, fluid top-ups, tyre pressure, lights, wipers, brakes (visual). |
| Full Service | 24 months | 20,000 - 24,000 miles | All minor service items plus: air filter, cabin filter, spark plugs (if applicable), more detailed brake check, suspension check. |
| Major Service | 36 months | 30,000 - 36,000 miles | All full service items plus: fuel filter, coolant check/flush, gearbox oil (if applicable), more comprehensive checks. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is servicing free under the Motability scheme?
Servicing is typically included in your lease payments. However, you are responsible for arranging and taking the car for its scheduled service. Any repairs identified during the service that are due to wear and tear are usually covered, but accidental damage or neglect may incur charges.
Q2: What happens if I miss a service?
Missing a service can violate your lease agreement. It could lead to penalties, increased repair costs if a problem develops due to lack of maintenance, and may affect the condition of the vehicle at the end of the lease.
Q3: Can I get my Motability car serviced at any garage?
No, you must use an authorised dealership for your car's brand or a garage specifically approved by your Motability leasing provider. Using an unapproved garage could invalidate your lease agreement.
Q4: Who pays for the service?
The cost of scheduled servicing is factored into your lease agreement. You do not pay separately for routine servicing at the time of the appointment, but you are responsible for ensuring it gets done.
Q5: What if I need repairs outside of a scheduled service?
If you encounter a problem with your car between services, contact your Motability leasing provider or the dealership immediately. They will advise you on the next steps for diagnosis and repair, which will likely be covered if it's a mechanical or electrical fault due to normal use.
In conclusion, regular servicing of your Motability car is an indispensable part of the scheme. It ensures your safety, keeps your vehicle running reliably, and upholds the terms of your lease agreement. By understanding when and where to get your car serviced, and by following the manufacturer's recommendations, you can enjoy the benefits of your Motability vehicle with confidence and peace of mind.
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