Confused about the difference between a minor and major service? You're not alone. Many drivers aren't sure what each service entails and when it's needed. This guide explains the difference between minor and major services, their costs, and when each service is needed.
A minor service is essential preventative maintenance that should be performed annually or every 15,000-20,000 kilometers. A major service is a more extensive maintenance service typically required every two years or 30,000-40,000 kilometers. Both services are crucial for the longevity of your car.
What is a minor service?
A minor service is basic maintenance for your car. It prevents major problems and keeps your car in good condition. At Faay Auto Groep, we perform at least the following tasks during a minor service:
Minor Service Activities
- Changing engine oil: Fresh oil ensures optimal lubrication of the engine
- Replacing the oil filter: Prevents contamination of the fresh oil
- Visual inspection: Check for leaks, wear and damage
- Tire check: Check tread depth and tension
- Checking the brakes: Visual inspection of brake discs and pads
- Testing lighting: Check all lights
- Topping up fluids: Windshield washer fluid, coolant if necessary
- Update maintenance booklet: All work is documented
When to have a minor service done?
- Annually with normal use
- Every 15,000 kilometers for gasoline cars
- Every 20,000 kilometers for diesel cars
- According to factory advice in maintenance booklet
What is a Major Service?
A big turn This is a comprehensive service that includes all the work of a minor service, as well as additional checks and replacements. This is a thorough checkup of your car.
Major Service Activities
The major service includes everything from the minor service plus:
- Replacing the air filter: Ensures clean air in the engine
- Replacing the cabin filter: For clean air in the interior
- Replace fuel filter: Prevents contamination of the fuel system (especially diesel)
- Check/replace spark plugs: For optimal ignition (petrol)
- Timing belt inspection: Crucial for preventing engine damage
- Changing brake fluid: Mandatory every 2 years
- Change coolant: According to factory advice
- Air conditioning maintenance: Check and top up if necessary
- Drive shaft covers: Check for cracks
- Suspension: Extensive clearance check
- Complete exhaust system check: Leaks and rust
- Battery testing: Load capacity and condition
When to Have a Major Service Done?
- Every 2 years with normal use
- Every 30,000-40,000 kilometers
- Alternating with minor service (year 1: minor, year 2: major)
- According to manufacturer's maintenance schedule
Minor Service vs. Major Service: Comparison Table
| Element | Minor Service | Major Service |
|---|---|---|
| Change engine oil | Yes | Yes |
| Replace oil filter | Yes | Yes |
| Replace air filter | No | Yes |
| Replace cabin filter | No | Yes |
| Replace fuel filter | No | Yes (diesel) |
| Check spark plugs | No | Yes (gasoline) |
| Change brake fluid | No | Yes (every 2 years) |
| Change coolant | No | Yes (if necessary) |
| Timing belt inspection | No | Yes |
| Extensive suspension check | No | Yes |
| Interval | Annually / 15-20,000 km | Every 2 years / 30-40,000 km |
| Duration | 1-2 hours | 2-4 hours |
| Average costs | €149 – €299 | €349 – €699 |
Costs of Minor and Major Service 2025
The cost of a service depends on several factors: the make and model of your car, the engine size, fuel type and which parts need to be replaced.
Minor Service Prices
At Faay Auto Group in Nieuwegein:
- Minor service standard: From €149.95
- Minor service + MOT combination: From €149.95
- Minor service premium car: From €199.95
Includes: engine oil (up to 5 litres), oil filter, visual inspection, tyre check, top up of fluids.
Major Service Prices
- Major service standard: From €349.95
- Major service + MOT combination: From €379.95
- Major service premium car: From €499.95
Includes: all work, minor service + air filter, cabin filter, fuel filter (diesel), spark plug inspection, brake fluid, extensive checks.
Cost factors
- Make and model: Premium brands like BMW, Mercedes, Audi are more expensive
- Engine capacity: Larger engines require more oil
- Oil type: Synthetic oil is more expensive but better
- Additional work: Defects found during inspection
- Location: Prices vary by region and garage
Can I skip a turn?
Absolutely not recommended! Skipping maintenance can lead to:
- Engine damage: Old oil can damage the engine
- Higher costs: Small problems become major repairs
- Loss of value: A car without a maintenance history is worth less
- Warranty voids: Factory warranty requires scheduled maintenance
- Security Risk: Worn parts can fail
- APK problems: Increased chance of rejection
A minor service of €150 can prevent thousands of euros in repairs.
Additional Maintenance Besides Services
Timing Belt Replacement
The timing belt should be replaced every 90,000-150,000 km or 5-7 years. This is crucial – a broken timing belt leads to serious engine damage (€3,000-€8,000 repair costs).
Air Conditioning Maintenance
Let your Check and top up your air conditioning every 2 years. This prevents bacterial growth and odors.
winter check
Before winter, it is wise to prepare your car for winter with a special winter check.
Minor or Major Service: What Do I Need?
Use this decision tree:
- Is the car less than 1 year old or has it been driven less than 15,000 km? No service required yet (check manufacturer's advice)
- Last service less than 1 year ago? No service needed yet
- Last service was a major service and less than 15,000 km driven? Minor service is sufficient
- Major service more than 2 years ago or driven more than 30,000 km? Major service needed
- Minor service more than a year ago or driven more than 15,000 km? Minor service required
Tip: Always check your maintenance booklet for the manufacturer's recommendations. Some modern cars with long-life oil can handle longer intervals.
Combine Maintenance with APK
At Faay Auto Groep you can cleverly combine your maintenance with the MOT inspection. Advantages:
- Time saving: All in one go
- Discount: Combination prices from €149.95
- Increased chance of passing the APK test: Car in top condition
- Free re-inspection: If we repair immediately
- One invoice: Clear
Self Maintenance vs. Garage
What Can You Do Yourself?
- Check tire pressure (monthly)
- Top up windshield washer fluid
- Check lighting
- Visual inspection (leaks, damage)
- Replacing the cabin filter (easy on some cars)
Why Go to a Garage?
- Professional diagnosis: Discover problems early
- Correct parts: Original or A-brand quality
- Maintenance history: Important for warranty and sales value
- Specialized tools: For safe and correct installation
- Guarantee on work: If there are any problems, we will take care of them
- Expertise: Brand-specific knowledge
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How often should I have a minor service done?
A minor service should be performed annually or every 15,000-20,000 kilometers, depending on your driving habits and the manufacturer's recommendations. For intensive use (frequent short trips, city traffic), an annual service is recommended, even if you drive fewer kilometers.
What does a minor service cost on average?
A minor service costs an average of €149 to €299 at a certified garage. At Faay Auto Groep, you pay from €149.95, including engine oil, oil filter, and all inspections. Premium cars (BMW, Mercedes, Audi) are often more expensive due to higher-priced parts and special oil.
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 comprehensive and includes replacement of the air filter, cabin filter, fuel filter, brake fluid, and spark plug inspection, plus comprehensive checks of the suspension and timing belt.
How long does a major service take?
A major service typically takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on the make, model, and any additional work. A minor service is faster: 1 to 2 hours. At Faay Auto Groep, you'll receive a clear time estimate in advance.
Can I postpone a maintenance appointment?
This is strongly discouraged. A few weeks' delay isn't a problem, but skipping months can lead to engine damage, higher costs, and loss of value. Furthermore, the manufacturer's warranty on new cars is void if you don't follow the maintenance schedule.
What happens if I skip a turn?
Old motor oil loses its lubricating properties, causing engine parts to wear out faster. This can lead to expensive engine damage (€2,000-€8,000). It also voids the warranty and significantly reduces the resale value of your car without a complete maintenance record.
Do I have to go to a brand dealer for maintenance?
No, this isn't mandatory. Even at an independent garage like Faay Auto Groep, your warranty remains valid, provided we follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule and use quality parts. This often saves you €30-50% on costs compared to a dealer.
What oil should I use for my car?
Always use the manufacturer's recommended oil specification (e.g., 5W-30, 5W-40). This is listed in your maintenance booklet. Modern cars often require synthetic long-life oil. At Faay Auto Groep, we always use the correct oil for your specific car.
What is longlife oil?
Longlife oil is a high-quality synthetic oil that retains its quality for longer. For cars with a longlife maintenance schedule, the interval can be extended to 30,000 km or 2 years. Note: this only applies to infrequent short trips and highway use.
Is the MOT included in a maintenance service?
No, the MOT is a separate inspection that isn't automatically included in a service. However, you can cleverly combine both at Faay Auto Groep starting at €149.95. This saves you time and increases your chances of passing because your car is already in top condition.
Maintenance Books at Faay Auto Group
Bee Faay Auto Group in Nieuwegein you are assured of professional and affordable car maintenance:
- Authorized garage: RDW recognized, brand independent
- Competitive prices: Minor service from €149.95
- Transparent: Always get a quote first, no surprises
- Fast service: Often ready the same day
- Quality parts: Original or A-brand
- Warranty: On all activities and parts
- Replacement transportation: Available by appointment
- Online booking: Make an appointment 24/7
Schedule your maintenance now:
- Call: 030 601 99 15
- Online: Book an appointment now
- Visit: Lageweide 271, 3439 LM Nieuwegein
Don't wait until problems arise – regular maintenance is the best investment in your car!
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