Does the number of previous...
Subscribe to our newsletter
Looking after your vehicle properly helps it stay reliable, safe, and valuable. This hub explains what routine maintenance involves, what needs attention and when, and how good maintenance affects long-term value — across cars and vans.
Already know your reg? → Check your vehicle’s value
Vehicle maintenance is about preventing problems before they become expensive or unsafe. Regular checks and servicing help keep your vehicle running smoothly and protect its long-term value.
Routine maintenance typically includes:
Servicing and oil changes
Tyres, brakes, and suspension checks
MOT preparation and repairs
Fluid levels and warning lights
Wear-and-tear items
Staying on top of these areas can reduce breakdowns and make your car easier to sell later.
If you’re thinking about selling, our selling guidance pages explain how maintenance impacts value.
👉 Take a look at our “servicing and maintenance basics” guide.
Following the manufacturer’s service schedule helps prevent mechanical issues and reassures future buyers.
Regular upkeep plays a big role in valuation — our valuation guidance explains what buyers look for.
Tyres and brakes are critical for safety and are often checked during valuations and inspections.
View our Car and van tyre safety and maintenance pages for full guidance
Ignoring warning lights can lead to larger problems and reduced resale value.
An MOT is a legal requirement and a key indicator of a car’s condition. Preparing properly can reduce failures and unexpected repair costs.
Common MOT-related issues include:
Worn tyres or brakes
Suspension wear
Lighting faults
Emissions problems
If repairs outweigh your vehicle’s value, our scrapping guidance explains your options.
If your car fails its MOT, you still have options depending on the cost and severity of repairs.
Good maintenance doesn’t just improve reliability — it directly affects how buyers and dealers value your car.
Well-maintained cars and vans tend to:
Attract higher offers
Sell faster
Raise fewer inspection concerns
Poor maintenance can reduce value, even if the vehicle still runs.
“Servicing isn’t necessary if the car runs fine.”
Many problems develop quietly and only appear once damage is done.
“Old cars aren’t worth maintaining.”
Basic maintenance can keep older cars reliable and preserve resale or scrap value.
“Minor faults don’t affect value.”
Small issues can signal neglect and lower buyer confidence.
“I should fix everything before selling.”
Some repairs help value, others don’t — it’s about choosing wisely.
If you’re maintaining your car or van yourself— or deciding whether further repairs are worthwhile — checking its current value can help you make an informed decision.
No obligation
See how maintenance affects value
Decide whether to repair, sell, or keep
Prefer not to enter details yet? Learn how maintenance impacts resale value.
👉 maintenance impacts resale value
If you’re ready to move on from your current vehicle, you can get a free valuation here.
👉 get a free valuation
Subscribe to our newsletter
Vehicle Maintenance Guidance Looking after your vehicle properly helps it stay reliable, safe, and valuable. This hub explains what routine maintenance involves, what needs attention
Fancy a road trip this winter? With a little planning you could be well on your way to exploring the UK and the fantastic destinations it has to offer.
You could save money at the pump and find out how to be more fuel-efficient with our top tips. Find out more about fuel-efficient driving habits here.
Does your car have Thatcham approved security? Find out how you can protect your possessions and your car with an approved alarm system here.
The Porsche 911 has never looked more powerful and has come along way since the old 911. Find out more about how the 911 has changed over the areas here.
What is the government proposing in relation to Britains road network? Find out here what the three main party manifestos have in store for motoring.
Although we might not like to admit to getting angry while behind the wheel, it does appear to be a common occurrence for Brits. There are just certain situations when we’re on the road that makes us want to scream and shout and we’ve listed just a few of those here.
Buying your first car can be an exciting but also a daunting
Buying a used car can be a tricky process, especially if you’re
Pre-registered cars – how you can save money Did you know that
Car depreciation explained: future residual
It turns out that electric vehicle drivers are willing to pay more
The Tesla Supercharger network is expanding fast, providing reliable rapid charging throughout
Are you and your family ready to go electric? Well there’s no
How fast do Electric cars charge? How quickly your electric car charges
Finance helps us to make our cars more affordable, but how does it work? Find out all the latest on how finance works on a car right here.
Looking for a cheap car for under a grand? You can find out all about the top cheap cars for sale in the UK for under £1,000 right here.
Have you sold your car and now you’re wondering how you tell the DVLA? We’ve got you covered and you can find out how to tell the DVLA right here.
Have you sold your car and now you’re looking to cancel your car tax? Check out our latest guide to find out how, why, and when to cancel your car tax.
What Vehicle Maintenance Is Legally Required in the UK? MOTs, Tyres and Safety Checks Keeping a vehicle roadworthy in the UK isn’t just good practice
Car Dashboard Warning Lights Explained: What You Can Ignore and What You Can’t Dashboard warning lights are designed to alert you when something needs attention,
Most cars need a service every 12 months or 10,000 miles, whichever comes first.
If you drive shorter trips, tow heavy loads, or use your car in extreme temperatures, servicing may be needed more often. Regular servicing helps prevent breakdowns and keeps repair costs low.
You should never ignore the following dashboard lights:
Engine management light (amber or red)
Oil pressure warning
Battery/charging warning
Brake system warning
If a red light appears, stop the car as soon as it’s safe and investigate immediately. Ignoring these can cause expensive engine or electrical damage.
You may need new tyres if:
Tread depth is below 1.6mm (the legal limit)
There are cracks, bulges, or uneven wear
The steering wheel vibrates at speed
Braking distances feel longer
Checking your tyres regularly improves safety and fuel efficiency.
Every driver should check:
Engine oil
Coolant/antifreeze
Brake fluid
Power steering fluid
Windscreen washer fluid
Running low on any of these can cause performance issues, overheating, or even engine failure.
Most car batteries last 3–5 years.
Signs you may need a replacement include:
Slow engine cranking
Dim headlights
Electrical problems
Battery warning light
Needing to jump-start more often
Cold weather also reduces battery capacity.
You can greatly reduce breakdown risk by:
Keeping up with regular servicing
Checking tyre pressures weekly
Maintaining proper fluid levels
Replacing worn belts and hoses
Keeping your battery in good condition
Small checks now can prevent big repair bills later.
Before winter, make sure to check:
Tyre tread and pressures
Antifreeze strength
Battery condition
Wiper blades and screenwash
Heater and demister system
Carrying essentials such as a torch, blanket and ice scraper is also a good idea.
What sellers expect when using modern car buying platforms Car buying platforms have evolved significantly — and so have seller expectations. While jamjar is fundamentally
How jamjar vets and reviews car buying partners When sellers use a car-selling platform, trust isn’t assumed — it’s earned. Sellers want confidence that the
How jamjar matches sellers with the right car buying partners When sellers use a car-selling platform, they’re not just looking for offers — they’re looking
Why some car buyers lose seller trust (and how good partners avoid it) Most sellers don’t go into a car sale expecting problems — but
What Maintenance Issues Put Buyers Off the Most? When selling a car, buyers expect a few age-related imperfections. However, some maintenance issues raise immediate red
Does Skipping a Service Affect Your Car’s Value? When life gets busy, it’s easy to delay or skip a scheduled car service. But if you’re
What Car Repairs Are Not Worth Doing Before Selling? When preparing to sell your car, it’s natural to wonder whether fixing certain issues will increase
How often should you service your car? Whatever age your car is, regular servicing is the only way to make sure it stays in tip-top
There are plenty of people who can fix your car, it’s just about finding someone that works for you and where you want it fixing. Find out all you need to know right here.
There are different ways to disconnect a car battery, but the basic steps are usually the same. Here is a summary of how to disconnect
