Maintenance

Car Maintenance Nieuwegein – All Brands | Faay Auto Group

Regularly car maintenance is essential for the safety, reliability, and longevity of your car. At Faay Auto Groep in Nieuwegein, we provide professional maintenance for all car brands with transparent pricing and expert service.

Why Is Regular Car Maintenance Important?

Many drivers postpone maintenance to save money. This is a costly mistake. Regular maintenance:

1. Prevents Expensive Repairs

A minor service for €150 can prevent your engine from breaking down (repairs cost €3,000-8,000). Examples:

• oil change prevents engine wear and costly engine damage
• Check coolant prevents overheating and cylinder head cracks
• Replace timing belt on time prevents catastrophic engine damage
• Check brakes prevents brake disc replacement (pads only: €100, discs + pads: €400+)

2. Increases Safety

Poorly maintained cars are dangerous for you, your passengers and other road users:

• Worn brakes extend the braking distance
• Broken lighting reduces visibility
• Bad tires reduce grip, especially in rain
• Faulty suspension affects steering

3. Extends the Life of Your Car

A well-maintained car can easily last 300,000+ kilometers. Without maintenance, the same car can develop problems after just 100,000 km.

4. Retains the Value

When sold, a fully serviced car with a complete maintenance booklet is worth €1,000-3,000 more than a car without a maintenance history.

5. Reduces Fuel Consumption

A well-maintained engine consumes 5-15% less fuel:

• Clean air filter improves combustion
• Correct oil reduces friction
• Correct tire pressure saves fuel
• Clean spark plugs ensure optimal ignition

6. APK Approval

Regularly maintained cars almost always pass their MOT inspection. This saves on re-inspection costs and last-minute repairs.

When Does Your Car Need Maintenance?

The answer depends on several factors:

According to Manufacturer's Maintenance Schedule

Every car manufacturer has a maintenance schedule in its service manual. General guidelines:

• Minor service: Every 10,000-15,000 km or every year
• Major service: Every 20,000-30,000 km or every 2 years
• Long-life maintenance (VW, Audi, BMW): Up to 30,000 km (but not always recommended)

Based on Driving Behavior

Intensive use (short trips, city traffic, stop-and-go):

• More frequent maintenance required (every 7,500-10,000 km)
• Engine not reaching operating temperature = more wear
• Starting more often puts a strain on the battery and starter motor

Normal use (mix highway and city):

• Follow factory schedule (10,000-15,000 km)

Low mileage (<10.000 km/jaar):

• Maintenance at least once a year (even with low mileage)
• Oil ages even without use
• Liquids can spoil
• Hardening rubber parts

Warning signals

Your car gives signals when maintenance is required:

• Dashboard lights: Service, engine, oil, ABS, brakes
• Unusual sounds: Squeaking, creaking, tapping, rattling
• Performance reduction: Less power, poor acceleration
• Increased consumption: Suddenly using more fuel
• Smoke development: Blue or black smoke from exhaust
• Vibrations: When starting, accelerating or driving
• Strange smells: Burning smell, sweet smell, sharp smell

Complete Car Maintenance Schedule

Monthly (or Every 1,000 km)

Can you do it yourself:

• Check and adjust tire pressure
• Checking the engine oil level (cold engine)
• Check coolant level
• Top up windshield washer fluid
• Test all lighting
• Check windshield wipers for wear
• Visual check for leaks under the car

Every Quarter (or Every 5,000 km)

You can partly do it yourself:

• Check all fluid levels (brake, steering, cooling)
• Measure tire tread depth (minimum 1.6mm, recommended >3mm)
• Check tires for damage and uneven wear
• Visually check the brake pads (if visible through the rim)
• Check battery terminals for corrosion
• Assess the condition of the interior filter/cabin filter

Minor Service (Every 10,000-15,000 km or Every Year)

Professional maintenance required:

• Change engine oil (drain completely and fill to correct specification)
• Replace oil filter (crucial for clean oil)
• Check/replace air filter (in case of contamination >50%)
• Replace interior filter (fresh air, anti-condensation)
• All fluid levels check and top up
• Tire pressure and tread check and correct
• Fully test the lighting (all lights front and rear)
• Visually check the brakes (blocks, discs, hoses)
• Windshield wipers check and replace if necessary
• Undercarriage visual inspection (leaks, rust, damage)
• Computer diagnosis (read error codes, check sensors)
• APK-relevant points check (preventive check)
• Service reset (if applicable)

Cost of minor service: €99-€179 (depending on brand and engine type)

Major Service (Every 20,000-30,000 km or Every 2 Years)

Extensive professional maintenance:

All points of minor service, PLUS:

• Check/replace spark plugs (petrol engine, depending on type: 30,000-100,000 km)
• Change brake fluid (fully flushing system)
• Check/change coolant (every 2-4 years depending on type)
• Inspect timing belt (replace when interval reaches: 60k-120k km)
• Brake system comprehensive check:
  • Measure brake disc thickness
  • Measure brake pad thickness
  • Check brake hoses
  • Inspecting brake calipers
• Suspension comprehensive check:
  • Testing shock absorbers
  • Inspecting rubbers and bushings
  • Measure steering play
  • Check ball joints
• Exhaust system inspection (leaks, rust, mounting)
• Check drive shafts (CV joint covers, clearance)
• Air conditioning service (if interval reached: every 2-3 years)
• Check transmission oil (automatic: change 60,000 km)
• Chassis thorough inspection (rust, leaks, damage)
• Wheel alignment check (measure tracking if necessary)
• Replace all filters (oil, air, interior, fuel if required)

Cost of major service: €250-€450 (depending on brand, engine type and required parts)

Specific Intervals (Time or Mileage Dependent)

Every 2-4 years:

• Replacing the timing belt: 60,000-120,000 km (varies greatly by make/model)
• Change coolant: Every 2-5 years depending on type
• Changing brake fluid: Every 2 years (hygroscopic = attracts moisture)
• Air conditioning service: Every 2-3 years (top up gas, clean system)
• Transmission oil: Automatic: 60,000-80,000 km, Manual: 80,000-120,000 km

Every 4-6 years:

• Replace battery: Average age: 4-6 years (symptoms: difficult starting, dim lights)
• Replacing tires: 40,000-60,000 km average (depending on driving style and tire type)

Car Maintenance Per Brand

Different brands have different maintenance needs:

Volkswagen, Audi, Seat, Skoda (VAG Group)

• Longlife service: Possible but not always recommended
• Recommendation: Change oil every 15,000 km (especially for short trips)
• Timing belt: Often 90,000-120,000 km or 5 years
• DSG gearbox: Change oil every 60,000 km
• Typical problems: DPF particulate filter (diesel), turbos, coils

BMW and Mercedes

• CBS/FSS system: Calculates service based on driving style
• Longer intervals: Up to 25,000-30,000 km possible
• Specific oil required: BMW Longlife-04, MB 229.x specifications
• Timing chain: Often lifelong but check after >150,000 km
• Typical problems: Oil leaks, electronics, turbos

Toyota, Lexus, Honda

• Trustworthy: Less maintenance intensive
• Timing chain: Often instead of belt (usually lifelong)
• Hybrid specific: Cooling system, battery, brake fluid extra important
• Recommendation: Follow strict schedule, quality oil important
• Typical problems: Few, rust older models

Peugeot, Citroën, Renault (French Brands)

• Service intervals: 15,000-20,000 km
• Timing belt: Often 80,000-100,000 km or 5 years
• Diesel filters: DPF problems, regular long drives essential
• Typical problems: DPF, turbos, electronics, starter motors

Ford, Opel

• Service intervals: 12,500-20,000 km depending on model
• Timing belt: 80,000-160,000 km (varies greatly by model)
• EcoBoost engines: More frequent oil changes recommended
• Typical problems: Spark plugs (EcoBoost), dual mass flywheel, air conditioning

Car Maintenance at Faay Auto Group

Why Thousands of Customers Trust Us

1. All Brands Welcome – No Dealer Needed

We service virtually every car brand: from budget brands like Dacia and Suzuki to premium brands like BMW, Mercedes, and Audi. You'll save €30-50% compared to dealer prices without compromising quality.

2. Manufacturer's Warranty Remains Valid

Under EU law (Regulation 461/2010), you can have your car serviced at any professional garage. We ensure that:

• Correct oil and parts according to factory specifications are used
• Maintenance booklet is stamped correctly
• Digital maintenance history is kept
• Factory warranty is fully retained

3. Transparent Prices

Before we start you will always receive:

• Clear quotation with all costs
• Explanation of required work
• No surprises afterwards
• In case of additional findings: first consult

4. High-Quality Parts

• Motor oil: Top brands (Castrol, Mobil, Shell) according to factory specifications
• Filters: OEM original or A-brand equivalent
• Parts: Original or high-quality alternatives
• Warranty: On all parts and labor

5. Modern Equipment

• Professional diagnostic systems for all brands
• Brand-specific software (VAG, BMW, Mercedes, etc.)
• Precision tools
• Service reset options

6. Experienced Mechanics

• Certified and qualified
• Years of experience with all brands
• Regular training
• Passion for cars and technology

7. Complete Reporting

After each maintenance service you will receive:

• Digital maintenance report with all work performed
• Photos of problems found
• Advice for future maintenance
• Estimate when the next service is needed

Frequently Asked Questions Car Maintenance

How often should my car be serviced?

On average, a car needs a minor service every 10,000-15,000 km and a major service every 20,000-30,000 km. This varies by make and driving style. Check your maintenance booklet or ask us for advice specific to your car.

What happens if I postpone maintenance?

Delayed maintenance leads to accelerated wear and tear, a higher risk of breakdowns, expensive repairs, poorer fuel economy, and lower resale value. A minor service costing €150 can prevent you from having to pay over €3,000 in repairs.

Will my factory warranty be void if I don't go to the dealer?

No! According to EU law, you can have your car serviced at any professional garage. We use the correct parts and oil according to the manufacturer, stamp your service record, and keep digital proof. Your warranty remains fully valid.

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

A minor service focuses on oil, filters, and basic checks (€99-€179, 1 hour). A major service is more extensive, replacing more parts such as spark plugs, all filters, fluid changes, and more thorough inspections (€250-€450, 2-3 hours).

How much does car maintenance cost on average per year?

Average annual cost for standard cars is €300-€600 with regular maintenance. Premium brands and diesels often cost €400-€800. This doesn't include repairs, but it actually prevents many expensive repairs.

Do I also need to do maintenance if I drive few kilometers?

Yes! Maintenance is necessary at least once a year, even with low mileage. Oil ages, fluids deteriorate, rubber parts harden, and short journeys put extra strain on the engine. Low mileage often means short journeys, which are more demanding on the car.

Can I do car maintenance myself?

You can perform basic checks (tire pressure, fluid levels, lights) yourself. Changing the oil, filters, brakes, and diagnostics requires professional equipment, expertise, and tools. Doing it yourself saves little and risks costly mistakes.

Plan your car maintenance at Faay Auto Group

Carefree driving starts with regular maintenance. Schedule an appointment today at Faay Auto Groep in Nieuwegein.

Call 030 601 99 15 or book directly online.

Your benefits:

• ✓ Minor service from €99
• ✓ Major service from €250
• ✓ All brands welcome
• ✓ 30-50% cheaper than dealer
• ✓ Factory warranty remains valid
• ✓ Transparent prices
• ✓ Skilled mechanics
• ✓ Modern equipment
• ✓ Digital maintenance report
• ✓ Fast service (often the same day)

Opening hours:
Monday – Friday: 9:00 – 18:00

Address: Zeelandhaven 3C, 3433PL Nieuwegein, Nederland
Phone: 030 601 99 15
E-mail: contact@faayautogroep.nl

Invest in the longevity and safety of your car. Schedule your maintenance today!

Frequently Asked Questions about Car Maintenance

How often should I have my car serviced?

Maintenance frequency depends on your car make, model, and driving habits. Manufacturers generally recommend a minor service every 10,000-15,000 km or annually, and a major service every 30,000-60,000 km or every 2-3 years. More frequent maintenance may be necessary for intensive city driving or short journeys. Modern cars with long-life intervals may have longer intervals. Always check your maintenance booklet or contact Faay Auto Groep for personalized advice.

How much does car maintenance cost at Faay Auto Groep?

Car maintenance costs vary by service type and car make. A minor service starts at €99, and a major service starts at €250. These are all-inclusive prices, including parts and labor. Specific services such as timing belt replacement (starting at €550) or air conditioning maintenance (starting at €89) have separate rates. We always prepare a free, personalized quote first, so you know exactly what to expect, with no hidden costs.

Will my factory warranty remain valid if I have my car serviced at an independent garage?

Absolutely! Since the 2010 EU regulation (Regulation 461/2010), you can freely choose where you have your car serviced without risking your manufacturer's warranty. At Faay Auto Groep, we work according to your car manufacturer's technical specifications, use original or equivalent parts, and document all work digitally. You often save €30-€50% compared to a branded dealer, while your warranty remains fully intact.

Which parts are replaced during regular maintenance?

A minor service involves changing the engine oil and oil filter, as well as checking critical components. A major service also includes replacing the air filter, cabin air filter, fuel filter, spark plugs or glow plugs, coolant, and brake fluid. Depending on mileage and condition, the timing belt, water pump, brake pads, shock absorbers, and other wear parts may also need replacing. We recommend replacing these parts during the service.

Can I combine maintenance with an MOT inspection?

Yes, that's even highly recommended! At Faay Auto Groep, you can perfectly combine your maintenance with the mandatory periodic vehicle inspection (APK). This saves you time and often money, because your car only needs to go to the garage once. We have special MOT with maintenance combination packages with attractive discounts. This way, you can be sure your car is in perfect technical order and will pass its MOT.

How do I know when my car needs maintenance?

There are several signs: the maintenance indicator light on the dashboard, decreased performance or increased fuel consumption, strange noises while driving, an oil warning light, or simply checking the maintenance schedule in your owner's manual. Even if you don't know your maintenance history, we can use your license plate to look up when your last service was. If you're unsure, you can always call for a free consultation.