Interim Service Guide

Keeping your vehicle running smoothly requires more than just an annual service - especially if you’re clocking up the miles.
That’s where an interim car service comes in.

Designed as a mid-point check between full or major services, an interim service helps ensure your vehicle remains safe, efficient, and roadworthy throughout the year.

What is an interim car service?

An interim car service is a basic and routine set of checks that are carried out on your vehicle.

If you are a high mileage driver, an interim service can be an important part of your car’s service schedule.

It acts as a stopgap between your full or major service and should take place once every 6 months or 6,000 miles – whichever comes sooner.

The benefit of an interim service is that the general health of your vehicle will be checked – ensuring that your vehicle can remain safe and functional for as long as possible.

By discovering issues early on, you can have them repaired or replaced before they become a much bigger problem – or before they have a knock-on effect on other parts of the vehicle.

What’s included in an interim service?

Engine & Fluids

Inspect:

• Engine for oil leaks
• Battery charge and terminals

• Power steering & reservoir
• Brake fluid & replacement schedule

• Brake fluid boiling point

• Anti-freeze (as required)

• Drain and change oil and filter

• Vehicle windscreens & mirrors
• Mirrors (interior and exterior)

• Windscreen washers, wipers, & function
• Windscreen security & any chips / cracks

• Windscreen wash (as required)

• Steering components for wear and corrosion

• Steering rack gaiters

• ABS warning light

• Brake pads for wear or damage

• General tyre condition
• Spare tyre

• Tyre tread depth
• Tyre pressures
• Tyres for uneven wear
• Tyre age

• Number plate
• Exhaust system & catalysts as appropriate

• Horn

• Reset vehicle service light as appropriate
• Update service book
• Full health report

How long does a car interim service take?

An interim service typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to complete.

However, the exact duration can vary depending on the garage, your vehicle’s condition, and whether any additional issues are found during the checks.

Since an interim service is less comprehensive than a full service, it generally focuses on essential maintenance such as an oil and filter change, brake inspection, and checking key fluid levels.

If your vehicle requires any minor repairs or additional work, this may extend the time needed.

It's a good idea to check with your  garage when booking your service, as some may offer collection and delivery options or allow you to wait on-site while the service is carried out.

How often should I get an interim service?

An interim service is typically recommended every 6 months or 6,000 miles, whichever comes first.

While not always essential for low-mileage drivers, an interim service is highly recommended for those who drive frequently, especially if you cover long distances or make a lot of short trips.

Regular driving can lead to gradual wear and tear on key components such as brakes, tyres, and the engine.

An interim service provides a thorough check of these areas, along with essential maintenance like an oil and filter change, to keep your vehicle performing reliably.

For high-mileage drivers or those who rely heavily on their car for commuting or travel, an interim service is an effective way to spot potential issues before they become more serious.

Even if you have a full service scheduled annually, an interim service can provide added peace of mind and help maintain your vehicle’s overall health.

What do I need to bring for an interim car service?

When taking your car for a service, there are a few important things you should bring to ensure the process goes smoothly.

If your car has locking wheel nuts, you’ll need to bring the key for your service, as mechanics may need to remove the wheels to check your brakes and suspension.

If you have a service book, it’s a good idea to bring this along so the garage can update it with a stamp confirming the service was completed. This helps maintain a full service history, which can improve your car’s resale value.

Although it’s not essential, clearing out your boot can also be helpful. This allows technicians easy access to components stored in this area, such as a spare tyre.

Finally, while you don’t usually need to provide an MOT certificate for a standard service, some garages may request it if they are performing additional checks or combining your service with an MOT.

Bringing these items will help ensure your service is completed efficiently and your car’s maintenance records remain up to date.

Booking an Interim Car Service

An interim service is a practical, proactive step in your vehicle’s care - especially for drivers who depend on their car day in, day out.

By tackling wear-and-tear items and performing essential maintenance checks every 6 months or 6,000 miles, you can help extend the life of your vehicle, reduce unexpected repair costs, and drive with greater peace of mind.