If you own a car, regular servicing is one of the most important things you can do to keep it safe, efficient, and on the road for longer. For many drivers, though, the details of what happens during a service remain a bit of a mystery. That’s especially true when trying to understand the difference between an interim, full, or major service, and how all of that ties in with your MOT test.
To clear things up, we spoke with the team at First Auto Centre, a trusted car garage in East Ham that’s been keeping local vehicles running smoothly for years. Their honest and straightforward approach to car servicing has made them a popular choice for drivers across East Ham and Newham.
Interim ServiceUnderstanding the Types of Car Service
There isn’t just one type of service. Most garages, including First Auto Centre, offer three levels of service depending on your mileage, how frequently you drive, and the age of your car.
Interim Service
An interim service is generally recommended every six months or 6,000 miles, whichever comes first. It’s designed to keep your car in good health between major services and typically includes an oil and filter change, fluid top-ups, and a basic inspection of key components like tyres, brakes, and lights.
Full Service
A full service is more comprehensive. Most drivers will need this annually or every 12,000 miles. Alongside everything in the interim service, it includes a deeper check of the braking system, replacement of filters (like air and cabin), and a full vehicle inspection to ensure everything is functioning as it should.
Major Service
A major service goes one step further. Recommended every two years or 24,000 miles, it includes everything in a full service, with additional checks and replacements such as spark plugs, brake fluid, and sometimes gearbox oil. It’s a great choice if you want to keep your vehicle running smoothly over the long term.
At First Auto Centre, servicing is carried out by qualified and experienced technicians, and all parts used are either genuine or OE-equivalent, which means you won’t void your manufacturer warranty. If you’re unsure which type of service your car needs, their team is always happy to advise based on your driving habits and vehicle history.
Why Servicing Your Car Is More Than Just a Box-Ticking Exercise
There’s a misconception among some drivers that as long as a car “feels fine,” a service isn’t really necessary. But the reality is that many issues build up gradually and can go unnoticed until they cause a breakdown or costly repair.
Regular servicing helps you stay ahead of problems like engine wear, brake deterioration, and fluid leaks. It also ensures that your car is more likely to pass its MOT, as many of the checks involved in a full or major service overlap with those in an MOT test. By keeping up with annual maintenance, you’re more likely to avoid being caught out by a failed test—or worse, a breakdown on the road.
That’s why garages like First Auto Centre in East Ham recommend combining your service and MOT where possible. It’s not only more convenient but can also save you money and hassle in the long run.
What Makes First Auto Centre a Reliable Choice for Servicing in East Ham?
Based in East Ham, First Auto Centre has built a solid reputation for honest service, transparent pricing, and experienced staff. Their technicians are fully trained and accredited, and they’re committed to doing the job properly—no rushed appointments or unnecessary upselling.
Whether you need a quick oil change, a full annual service, or you’re just preparing for your next MOT in East Ham, they’ll give you clear guidance on what your car needs and when. They also offer free MOT reminders, so you’ll never risk forgetting your test date.
In a world where garages can often feel impersonal, it’s refreshing to find a team that genuinely cares about its customers and their vehicles. That local, personalised service is one of the reasons why many drivers in East Ham trust them with everything from routine servicing to complex repairs.
If you’re in East Ham or the surrounding area and looking for reliable, friendly support with your car servicing, it’s worth reaching out to First Auto Centre. Their team is always on hand to answer questions, explain what your car needs, and help you stay on top of both maintenance and MOTs.
