big turn

Major Car Service – Complete Maintenance | Faay Auto Group

A big turn This is comprehensive maintenance where your car is thoroughly inspected and all essential parts are replaced or adjusted. At Faay Auto Groep in Nieuwegein, we provide professional major services for all car brands with transparent prices starting from €250.

What is a Major Service?

A major service (also called a major overhaul or comprehensive service) is the most comprehensive maintenance service for your car. It goes beyond a minor service by not only changing the oil, but also replacing fluids, replacing filters, and thoroughly inspecting all safety-critical components.

When is a major service necessary?

Most car manufacturers recommend a major service every:

• 20,000 to 30,000 kilometers (depending on brand, model and engine type)
• Or every up to 2 years (whichever is reached first)
• For MOT inspection – A major service before the MOT prevents rejections
• When purchasing a second-hand car – For peace of mind about the state
• For long holidays - Prevent breakdowns on the road

Note: Different brands have different recommendations. BMW and Mercedes with long-life service intervals may have longer intervals, while French brands often recommend shorter intervals.

What is included in a major service at Faay Auto Groep?

Our major service is very comprehensive and includes everything from a minor service, plus additional checks and replacements:

Everything from minor service including:

• ✓ Completely change the engine oil (synthetic quality oil)
• ✓ Replace oil filter
• ✓ Replace air filter
• ✓ Replace interior filter (cabin filter)
• ✓ Check and top up all fluid levels
• ✓ Check tire pressure and tread
• ✓ Fully test lighting
• ✓ Visually check the brakes
• ✓ Check windshield wipers
• ✓ Chassis visual inspection
• ✓ Computer diagnosis (reading error codes)
• ✓ APK-relevant points check

Plus Extra Work Major Service:

1. Check/Replace Spark Plugs (Gasoline Engine)

Spark plugs are crucial for engine performance and fuel economy:

• Standard spark plugs: Replace every 30,000-60,000 km
• Platinum/Iridium spark plugs: Replace every 80,000-120,000 km
• Advantages of replacement: Better starting performance, lower consumption, more power, smoother running
• Symptoms of worn spark plugs: Difficult starting, engine hesitation, increased consumption, loss of power

2. Change brake fluid

Brake fluid is hygroscopic (attracts moisture) and must be changed regularly:

• Interval: Every 2 years according to manufacturer
• Why refresh: Moisture lowers boiling point, risk of fading during intensive braking
• Method: Completely flush system, fresh DOT 4 or DOT 5.1
• Safety: Crucial for optimal braking performance

3. Check/Change Coolant

Coolant (antifreeze) protects the engine from overheating and freezing:

• Refresh interval: Every 2-5 years depending on type (G12, G13, OAT, etc.)
• Controls: Measure concentration (must protect down to -25°C minimum), pH value, contamination
• Method: Flush and fill system with correct mixing ratio (usually 50/50)
• Interest: Prevents overheating (€2,000+ damage) and freezing in winter

4. Timing Belt Inspection

For cars with timing belt (not chain):

• Visual inspection: Cracks, fraying, wear, oil contamination
• Check voltage: Too tight or too loose = problems
• Replacement advice: At interval (usually 60,000-120,000 km or 5-7 years)
• Replace simultaneously: Water pump, tensioners, guides (prevents duplication of work)
• Risk breaking: Catastrophic engine damage (€3,000-8,000+)

5. Brake System Comprehensive Check

Thorough brake research for optimal safety:

• Measure brake disc thickness: Front and rear, minimum thickness according to manufacturer
• Measure brake pad thickness: Minimum 3mm, replace at <4mm
• Inspecting brake hoses: Cracks, leakage, swelling, old age
• Checking the brake calipers: Glide freely, no jamming, no leakage
• Testing the handbrake: Measure effectiveness, check cables
• ABS sensors: Check and clean

6. Suspension Extensive Check

Suspension affects safety, comfort and tire wear:

• Testing shock absorbers: Bounce test, visual leak, test drive
• Rubbers and bushings: Stabilizer bar, control arm, subframe, engine mount
• Measuring steering play: Steering box, ball joints, tie rods
• Checking ball joints: Measure clearance, inspect dust covers
• Control arm bushings: Cracks, hardening, clearance
• Inspecting feathers: Fractures, subsidence, rust

7. Exhaust System Inspection

Complete exhaust system inspection:

• Detecting leaks: Front, center and rear muffler, welded couplings
• Rust and corrosion: Assess remaining lifespan
• Confirmation: Rubbers, clamps, brackets
• Catalyst: Function tests, blockages
• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF): Read saturation level (diesel)
• Lambda probe: Check operation (consumption, emissions)

8. Check Drive Shafts

Drive shafts (CV joints) transmit power to the wheels: