What Information Has the Biggest...
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
Have you got that clutch control down to a T? How about double clutching? I f you’re new to the double-clutch party then find out what your missing here.
Do you own a diesel car? If you answered yes then you need to know about the DPF and exactly what you can do to maintain it. Find out more about it here.
Did you know that there are ways that you can help to prevent keyless car theft? Find out here how you can help make a criminal’s life more difficult.
After some cosmetic tweaks, the new Flying Spur Speed is ready for the road as it is set to replace the W12. Find out all the latest details here.
What is the WLTP test and why has it been developed? We’ll help you make sense of it all here. You can find out what it could mean for you and your vehicle.
You can find out what the world’s greatest historic motor race has in store for you right here. For all of the latest news on races and dates for Goodwood, check this out 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
Purchasing a new or used car is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make and you should never be afraid to negotiate for a better car price.
Thinking of buying a second-hand electric vehicle but can’t make your mind up? Find out here whether or not you should give them a wide birth.
What is a car warranty? To help you answer this question and much more on car warranties, check out our handy guide all about car warranties.
Depreciation and assets can muddy the waters for you, so we’ve made it simple. Find out what a depreciating asset is and if your car is considered one here.
How Often Should You Service Your Car or Van? A Complete UK Guide Knowing how often to service your car or van helps keep it
How Much Does Poor Service History Reduce Car Value? Service history plays an important role in how buyers assess a car’s condition and value. While
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.
Vehicle Maintenance Checklist: Monthly, Annual and Long-Term Tasks Explained Staying on top of vehicle maintenance doesn’t need to be complicated, but it does need to
Does Regular Maintenance Increase Your Car’s Value? What Buyers Really Care About Regular maintenance helps keep a vehicle reliable and safe, but many owners also
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,
Coolant and Anti-freeze: What is the correct type for your car? Did you know that different cars require different coolants? You might be thinking it’s
Which car battery do I need? Let’s face it, there’s nothing worse than waking up in the morning to find out your car’s battery is
How to remove scratches from your car Let’s face it, there’s nothing worse than discovering that your car has a scratch on it. It has
Blowing exhaust Is your car’s exhaust not sounding too healthy? Does it sound like it’s blowing a gale? Your exhaust does several jobs in your
What is a car warranty? To help you answer this question and much more on car warranties, check out our handy guide all about car warranties.
If you’re thinking about investing in a garage to store your car, this list of benefits will help you make up your mind.
