Skipping Your Car Service? Here’s What It Could Really Cost You

Life gets busy. It’s easy to overlook that scheduled car service Bentleigh East, especially if your vehicle seems to be running just fine. But what many drivers don’t realise is that skipping regular servicing can lead to serious mechanical issues, safety risks, and even voided warranties—costing you far more in the long run.

Whether you’ve recently purchased a vehicle through used car sales, or you’ve been driving the same car for years, routine servicing is crucial for keeping your car safe, efficient, and roadworthy.

1. Reduced Engine Life

One of the biggest risks of skipping a service is engine wear. Engine oil loses its effectiveness over time and kilometres. If it’s not changed regularly, dirty oil builds up and can damage critical engine components like pistons, valves and bearings.

Over time, this neglect can lead to overheating, poor performance or even complete engine failure—repairs that can run into the thousands.

A simple oil and filter change as part of your regular car service Ormond helps avoid this outcome and keeps your engine running smoothly for longer.

2. Voided Warranty or Logbook Service Gaps

If your vehicle is under manufacturer’s warranty, missing scheduled services can invalidate it. Most warranties require logbook servicing at specific intervals by a qualified mechanic Oakleigh, using approved parts and procedures.

Failing to follow the recommended schedule could leave you out of pocket for repairs that would have otherwise been covered.

Even if your car is out of warranty, a well-documented car service history boosts resale value—especially for vehicles sold through used car sales.

3. Worn Brakes and Suspension

Brakes don’t fail overnight—but if you skip services, you might miss the early warning signs. Mechanics inspect brake pads, discs and fluid as part of routine servicing. Driving with worn brakes reduces stopping power and puts you and others at risk.

Suspension issues can also go unnoticed. Worn shocks, bushings or struts can affect ride comfort and tyre wear, and make your car unsafe—especially on rough or wet roads.

4. Poor Fuel Efficiency

Regular servicing ensures that filters, spark plugs, and engine components are operating efficiently. When your engine isn’t running as it should, it burns more fuel.

If your car is using more petrol than usual, or feels sluggish, it could be due to neglected servicing. Over time, that adds up to a big drain on your budget.

5. Failing a Roadworthy Inspection

In Victoria, a valid roadworthy certificate Bentleigh East is required when selling or transferring ownership of a vehicle. During the inspection, any faults with tyres, brakes, lights, or suspension will need to be repaired before a certificate is issued.

If you haven’t been keeping up with maintenance, you may face multiple repairs just to pass inspection. That’s a stress—and an expense—you can easily avoid by servicing your car regularly.

6. Air Conditioning System Problems

It might not be the first thing on your mind in winter, but neglecting car air conditioning service Bentleigh East can lead to issues year-round. Air con systems lose gas over time and need servicing to keep them cooling efficiently and to prevent odours or mould build-up.

Servicing also includes checking the cabin air filter and system pressure. Replacing or repairing a failed compressor can be expensive—another avoidable cost if you keep up with routine maintenance.

7. Unexpected Breakdowns

When minor issues are ignored, they often turn into major breakdowns. A small oil leak, an old belt, or a weak battery might seem harmless—until your car won’t start, or you’re stuck on the side of the road.

Regular servicing helps catch these issues early and reduces your chances of being stranded unexpectedly.

8. Lower Resale Value

If you ever plan to upgrade your car or sell it privately, a solid service history is a key selling point. Vehicles with consistent maintenance records fetch higher prices in used car sales and are more attractive to buyers.

Buyers—and many dealers—will request to see service logs. If your records are incomplete or missing, you’ll likely lose negotiating power.

Final Thoughts

Skipping your regular car service might save time or money in the short term, but it could cost you far more in the long run—from expensive repairs and poor fuel economy to safety risks and a failed roadworthy test.

Servicing your vehicle on time helps protect your engine, preserve your warranty, and ensures you stay safe on the road—especially if you rely on your car every day.

Book Your Next Service with Confidence

Need a trusted mechanic to keep your car in top shape? Whether you're due for a logbook service, need a roadworthy certificate, or a quick car air conditioning service, Carnegie Automotive has you covered.

Call us today or visit our Bentleigh East workshop to book your next service and keep your vehicle running at its best—without the surprise costs.