Car Maintenance Guide: Everything About Service, MOT & Maintenance [2025]

Car maintenance is essential for the safety, reliability, and longevity of your vehicle. Regular maintenance not only prevents costly repairs but also ensures your car continues to perform optimally. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about car maintenance, MOT inspections, and service maintenance in 2025.

The difference between preventative maintenance and repairs can save you thousands of euros. A minor service costs an average of €150-€250, while neglecting maintenance can lead to engine repairs costing €2,000 or more. This guide will help you make the right maintenance choices.

Types of Car Maintenance

Minor Service

A small turn This is the basic maintenance that should be performed every 15,000-20,000 kilometers or annually. This maintenance includes essential checks and replacements that keep your car safe and reliable.

What is done during a minor service:

Change engine oil with quality oil according to manufacturer's specifications
Replace oil filter for optimal oil circulation
Check air filter and replace if necessary
Check fluid levels (brake fluid, coolant, windshield washer fluid)
Checking and correcting tire pressure
Check lights (headlight, taillight, turn signals)
Visually inspect brakes for wear
Check the lower part of the car for leaks
Testing safety systems

A minor service costs between €150 and €250, depending on the make and model of your car. At Faay Auto Groep, you always get a fixed price upfront, so there are no surprises.

Major Service

A big turn A major service is more comprehensive than a minor service and is recommended every 30,000-40,000 kilometers or every two years. A major service covers all the components of a minor service, plus additional checks and replacements.

Additional work during a major service:

Replace spark plugs for optimal combustion
Replace air filter and pollen filter
Change brake fluid
Replacing the fuel filter (for diesel engines)
Check timing belt for wear and tension
Flush the cooling system and replace the coolant
Check exhaust and catalytic converter
Inspect shock absorbers and suspension
Check drive shaft and constant velocity joints
Check air conditioning and top up if necessary

A major service costs between €350 and €600, depending on the number of parts that need replacing. This investment prevents major problems and keeps your warranty valid.

APK inspection

The MOT inspection is a legally required inspection that checks your car's road safety. Every car older than three years must be inspected annually. At Faay Auto Groep, you pay only €17.95 for an MOT inspection.

What is checked during the MOT:

Brake system (brake force, brake discs, brake pads, handbrake)
Lighting and signaling (all lamps, reflectors)
Tires (tread depth minimum 1.6 mm, damage)
Steering (play, operation, damage)
Suspension and springs (shock absorbers, springs, rubbers)
Exhaust system (leaks, mounting, emissions)
Bodywork (rust, sharp edges, soundness)
Windshield wipers and washers
Horn and warning signals
Seat belts and airbags

If your car fails inspection, we'll perform a free re-inspection after the defects have been resolved. You only pay for the necessary repairs.

Combine APK with Maintenance

It is smart to have your MOT with maintenance Combined. This saves you time and money, because your car is already in the garage. At Faay Auto Groep, we offer attractive combination packages.

Benefits of MOT with maintenance:

Only one appointment needed instead of two
Cost savings on labor
Problems are resolved immediately during the inspection
Greater chance of passing the MOT in one go
Complete check of your car
Confidence that your car is safe and reliable

Our most popular package combines an MOT inspection with a minor service for a fixed price. This includes all the benefits of both services with a discount on the total price.

Maintenance Schedule Per Mileage

Following a structured maintenance schedule is crucial for the longevity of your car. Below, you'll find an overview of what maintenance is required at what mileage.

Mileage	Type of Maintenance	Main Activities	Estimated Costs
10,000 km	Minor Service	Oil, oil filter, general check	€150 – €250
20,000 km	Minor Service	Oil, oil filter, air filter, checks	€150 – €250
30,000 km	Major Service	All filters, spark plugs, fluids, extensive check	€350 – €600
40,000 km	Minor Service + Timing Belt Check	Standard minor service + belt check	€180 – €280
50,000 km	Major Service	All filters, fluids, brakes, air conditioning service	€400 – €650
60,000 km	Minor Service	Oil, filters, checks	€150 – €250
70,000 km	Minor Service	Oil, filters, checks	€150 – €250
80,000 km	Major Service + Timing Belt	Complete service + belt replacement (if necessary)	€800 – €1,200
90,000 km	Minor Service	Oil, filters, checks	€150 – €250
100,000 km	Major Service	Complete service, all fluids, extensive inspection	€400 – €650

Important notes on the maintenance schedule:

This schedule is a general guideline; always consult your car's maintenance booklet.
Some brands have specific intervals that may vary
With intensive use (many short trips, heavy loads), more frequent maintenance may be required
Modern cars often have longer maintenance intervals thanks to synthetic oil
Electric cars have a different maintenance schedule with less frequent services

Important Maintenance Parts

Motor oil and filters

Motor oil is the lifeblood of your car. It lubricates all the moving parts in the engine, prevents wear, and keeps the engine clean. Old oil loses its lubricating properties and can cause damage. Oil filters trap contaminants and should be replaced with every oil change.

Modern engines require specific oil grades (5W30, 5W40, etc.) according to manufacturer specifications. Using the wrong oil can void the warranty and cause engine damage. At Faay Auto Groep, we always use the correct oil for your car brand.

Air filters ensure clean air in the engine. A dirty air filter reduces performance and increases fuel consumption by as much as 10%. Pollen filters (cabin filters) ensure clean air in the car and should be replaced annually for optimal air quality.

Timing belt

The timing belt This is a critical component that controls the synchronization between the crankshaft and camshaft. If this belt breaks while driving, it can lead to serious engine damage, costing between €3,000 and €8,000 for repairs.

Timing belts should be replaced according to manufacturer specifications, usually between 60,000 and 120,000 kilometers (37,000 and 75,000 miles) or after 5-7 years, even if the car has been driven very little. When replacing the belts, the tensioner pulleys and water pump are often also replaced to prevent future problems.

Some modern cars have a timing chain that lasts a lifetime, but it must be checked regularly for wear and proper tension. Neglecting timing chain maintenance is one of the most costly mistakes car owners can make.

Brakes and Brake Fluid

Brakes are your car's most important safety system. Brake pads wear down due to friction and should be replaced when they become thinner than 3mm. Brake rotors can become scored or warped and should therefore be replaced.

Brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air, which lowers its boiling point and reduces braking power. Replace brake fluid every two years, regardless of mileage. Old brake fluid can cause brake fade, making brakes less effective, especially with heavy use.

During the MOT inspection, brakes are thoroughly tested on a dynamometer. Insufficient braking power is one of the most common failure points. Regular inspections prevent surprises during the inspection.

Air Conditioning System

It air conditioning system Should be checked annually and refilled every 2-3 years. A poorly functioning air conditioner is not only uncomfortable but can also cause health problems due to bacterial growth in the system.

Air conditioning service includes checking for leaks, topping up refrigerant, cleaning the system, and replacing the cabin filter. A well-maintained air conditioner operates more efficiently and consumes less fuel. Neglect can lead to costly compressor repairs (€600-€1,200).

Use your air conditioning system even in winter to keep it running smoothly. This prevents gaskets from drying out and leaks. If unpleasant odors are coming from your air conditioning system, cleaning and disinfecting are essential.

Ties

Ties are the only contact between your car and the road. Check your tire pressure and tread depth monthly. The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm, but 3 mm is recommended for optimal safety, especially in winter.

Incorrect tire pressure increases fuel consumption, wear, and the risk of blowouts. Under-inflation causes excessive wear on the outer edges, while over-inflation causes wear in the center. Check pressure when tires are cold for accurate readings.

Change your summer and winter tires in good time. Winter tires perform better below 7°C and provide shorter braking distances on wet and cold roads. Have your tires balanced when replacing them to prevent vibration and uneven wear.

Cost Overview 2025

Transparent pricing is important for car maintenance. Below you will find an overview of average maintenance costs at Faay Auto Groep in 2025.

Service	Faay Auto Group Price	Average at Dealer	Savings
APK inspection	€17,95	€40 – €60	Up to €42
Minor Service	€150 – €250	€200 – €350	Up to €100
Major Service	€350 – €600	€500 – €900	Up to €300
MOT + Minor Service	€167 – €267	€240 – €400	Up to €133
Timing belt	€450 – €800	€700 – €1,200	Up to €400
Brakes Front	€150 – €350	€250 – €500	Up to €150
Rear Brakes	€120 – €300	€200 – €450	Up to €150
Air Conditioning Service	€89 – €149	€120 – €200	Up to €51
Tire change	€25 – €40	€40 – €60	Up to €20
Exhaust Replacement	€200 – €600	€350 – €900	Up to €300

Save money on car maintenance:

Choose an independent garage: Up to 40% cheaper than dealers with the same quality
Combine services: MOT with maintenance saves labor costs
Preventive maintenance: Prevents expensive repairs later
Compare prices: Always ask for a quote in advance
Use quality parts: Cheap parts break faster
Follow maintenance schedule: Keeps warranty valid and car in top condition
Check yourself regularly: Fluids, tire pressure, lighting
Respond quickly to alerts: Small problems can become big problems

At Faay Auto Groep, you always receive a fixed price quote upfront. No hidden costs, no surprises. We use original or equivalent A-brand parts for optimal quality and reliability.

Frequently Asked Questions about Car Maintenance

How often should my car go to the garage for maintenance?

This depends on your car's make and usage. Generally, a minor service is recommended every 15,000-20,000 km or annually, and a major service every 30,000-40,000 km or every two years. Always consult your maintenance booklet for specific intervals. Cars with frequent short journeys require more frequent maintenance.

Can I go to a free garage without losing the warranty?

Yes, absolutely! Since 2010, you can go to any certified garage for maintenance without losing your manufacturer's warranty. We use original or equivalent parts and follow manufacturer specifications. Please ensure that all maintenance is properly recorded in the maintenance log.

What is the difference between a minor and a major service?

A minor service includes basic maintenance: oil, oil filter, and checks. A major service is more extensive, including replacement of all filters, spark plugs, fluids, and more in-depth inspections. A major service takes longer and costs more, but it keeps your car in optimal condition.

Should I combine MOT and maintenance?

This is highly recommended. During maintenance, many points are checked that are also covered during the MOT. By combining services, you have a better chance of passing the test on the first attempt, save yourself an additional visit to the garage, and often benefit from a combined price discount.

How do I know when my timing belt needs to be replaced?

Consult your maintenance manual for the replacement interval, usually between 60,000 and 120,000 km or after 5 to 7 years. A timing belt often doesn't give any warning signs before it breaks. Preventative replacement is essential to prevent engine damage. If in doubt, have it checked.

What happens if I skip maintenance?

Skipping maintenance can lead to: reduced performance, increased fuel consumption, accelerated wear and tear of parts, costly repairs, loss of the manufacturer's warranty, and safety issues. In the short term, you might seem to save money, but in the long run, it costs much more.