How often should a car be serviced and what does it include
- 22 August 2026
- Guides and Diagnostics
- Posted by MasterTuning
- Comments Off on How often should a car be serviced and what does it include
Most manufacturers specify a service every 15,000-30,000 km or every 12 months, whichever comes first. With mainly urban journeys it pays to shorten the interval: oil degrades with time and cycles, not just kilometres.
What a serious service includes
- Engine oil and oil filter of the correct specification
- Air filter, cabin filter, fuel filter according to the schedule
- Check of brakes, tyres, suspension, lights
- Checking levels and looking for leaks
- Reading the faults in the ECU
- Resetting the service indicator
Why the oil specification matters more than the price
Engines with a particulate filter need low-SAPS oil: a non-compliant oil loads the filter with ash that never burns off. The saving on the service is paid for with a DPF replacement.
When to shorten the interval
- Many short, urban trips
- Frequent DPF regenerations: the oil gets diluted with diesel
- Towing or heavy-duty use
- Engines with a timing chain: the chain tensioner works with oil pressure
The figures given are indicative market ranges, useful as a guide: the actual cost depends on model, engine, chosen parts and labour hours. An exact quote requires the vehicle registration.
Tailored quote
Before quoting we check what is really needed: an accurate diagnosis often avoids an expensive replacement. MasterTuning centres throughout Italy.
Request a quote stating model, engine and symptom.
Frequently asked questions
How often should a car be serviced?
Generally every 15,000-30,000 km or every 12 months, whichever comes first. With urban use it pays to shorten the interval.
Can I use an oil other than the prescribed one?
Not on engines with a DPF: low-SAPS oil of the correct specification is needed, otherwise the filter loads up with ash.
Does servicing at an independent workshop void the warranty?
No, if carried out properly with parts of equivalent quality and documented: this is provided for by European regulations.

