What’s the Difference Between a Car Service and a Health Check?
What’s the Difference Between a Car Service and a Health Check?
When it comes to vehicle maintenance, many drivers get confused between a car service and a vehicle health check. While both involve inspecting your car, they serve different purposes and should not be seen as interchangeable.
At Andrews Car Centre in Lincoln, we offer both car servicing and vehicle health checks, ensuring your car is safe, roadworthy, and performing at its best. In this article, we’ll explain the key differences between these two services, when you need each one, and why regular maintenance is essential for your vehicle.
What Is a Car Service?
A car service is a comprehensive routine maintenance procedure that involves checking and replacing key components to keep your vehicle running efficiently. It follows a structured checklist based on your car’s age, mileage, and manufacturer recommendations.
What’s Included in a Car Service?
🔹 Engine Oil & Filter Change – Removes dirty oil and replaces it with fresh oil to keep the engine lubricated.
🔹 Brake Inspection – Checks for wear on brake pads, discs, and fluid condition.
🔹 Tyre Check – Ensures tread depth is within legal limits and pressures are correct.
🔹 Fluid Top-Ups – Includes coolant, brake fluid, screen wash, and power steering fluid.
🔹 Air, Cabin, & Fuel Filter Replacement – Ensures clean airflow to the engine and fresh air inside the cabin.
🔹 Battery Health Check – Tests battery voltage and charging efficiency.
🔹 Suspension & Steering Check – Identifies any worn or damaged components.
🔹 Timing Belt (Cambelt) Inspection – Assesses whether it’s due for replacement based on mileage.
🔹 Diagnostic Scan (In Major Services) – Identifies hidden faults using advanced scanning tools.
A car service is designed to prevent breakdowns, improve fuel efficiency, and extend the lifespan of your vehicle.
What Is a Vehicle Health Check?
A vehicle health check (VHC) is a quick, general inspection of your car’s key components. It does not involve replacing parts or performing in-depth maintenance but provides an overview of your car’s condition.
Health checks are commonly performed before long trips, as part of an MOT, or for peace of mind between services.
What’s Included in a Health Check?
✔️ Tyre Tread & Pressure Check – Ensures tyres are legal and inflated correctly.
✔️ Brake Pad & Disc Condition – Checks if brakes are worn but does not replace them.
✔️ Fluid Levels – Inspect coolant, oil, screen wash, and brake fluid.
✔️ Battery Test – Checks if the battery is holding charge properly.
✔️ Wiper Blade Inspection – Identifies worn or ineffective wipers.
✔️ Lights & Indicators Check – Ensures all external bulbs are working.
A vehicle health check is a basic inspection and does not replace a full car service.
Key Differences Between a Service & a Health Check
| Feature | Car Service | Vehicle Health Check |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Preventative maintenance to keep the car running smoothly | Quick check to identify visible issues |
| Includes Oil & Filter Change? | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Checks Brake Pads & Discs? | ✅ Yes (Thoroughly) | ⚠️ Yes (Visual check only) |
| Tyre Inspection? | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Fluid Top-Ups? | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Only checked, not topped up |
| Battery Test? | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Suspension Check? | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Time Required? | 1-3 hours | 15-30 minutes |
| Recommended Interval? | Every 6-12 months | Anytime, especially before long trips or MOTs |
When Do You Need a Service vs. a Health Check?
🔧 Book a Car Service if:
✔️ Your car is due for a routine Interim, Full, or Major service.
✔️ The oil and filters haven’t been changed in over a year.
✔️ You notice warning lights, poor fuel economy, or sluggish performance.
✔️ You’re planning a long road trip and want full peace of mind.
🚗 Book a Vehicle Health Check if:
✔️ You want a quick check-up between services.
✔️ You’re unsure if your car is ready for an MOT.
✔️ You’re buying a used car and want a basic condition report.
✔️ You suspect a minor issue, such as low tyre pressure or dim headlights.
Why Choose Andrews Car Centre in Lincoln?
At Andrews Car Centre, we offer expert servicing and vehicle health checks to keep your car in top condition.
🔹 Manufacturer-Approved Servicing – We follow dealer-level service schedules to keep your car warranty intact.
🔹 Trained Technicians – Our mechanics are experts in all makes and models.
🔹 Transparent Pricing – No hidden fees—just honest, competitive rates.
🔹 Comprehensive Reports – We provide clear insights into your car’s health and maintenance needs.
🚗 Whether you need a quick health check or a full service, we’ve got you covered!
Book Your Car Service or Health Check Today!
Not sure if your car needs a full service or just a health check? Our team can advise you on the best option based on your car’s age, mileage, and condition.
📞 Call Andrews Car Centre in Lincoln today or visit our website to book your appointment. Stay safe and keep your car running at its best!