What’s the Difference Between an Interim Service and a Vehicle Health Check?
FixMyCar discusses the differences between a vehicle health check and a minor car service.
Book a car repair nowEllie Dyer-Brown
Monday January 15 2024
3 min read
Car maintenance can seem complicated with so many different checks and services available, but we're here to simplify it. Read on to find out everything you need to know.
Is a vehicle health check the same as a car service?
A vehicle health check is a non-mandatory comprehensive check of your car’s components by a trained technician. While vehicle health checks are not required, some garages offer them alongside a repair or service for peace of mind that your car is road-safe. Vehicle health checks only take around 15 minutes to carry out, so they are often offered free of charge.
A car service is also non-mandatory, meaning you can drive without one. However, brand-new cars may be required to follow a servicing schedule to ensure that the warranty on the vehicle remains valid. This is usually for the first few years of owning the car, and after that, it’s up to the owner if they continue to service the vehicle.
What car parts are checked and repaired within an interim car service?
An interim service, also known as a minor service, includes around 40-50 basic checks, which are also covered by a full service. These can include:
Anti-freeze coolant
Lights testing
Charging system
What is included in a vehicle health check?
A vehicle health check is a visual inspection of the car, usually including the tyres, wheels, brakes, exhaust, steering, lights, wiper blades and fluids.
When should you book a car service instead of a vehicle health check?
You should book a car service instead of a vehicle health check if you need to follow a servicing schedule with your car, and missing a service would void this.
If you’re deciding between the two, choosing a service over a vehicle health check is often worth it because services are more thorough. Even if you don’t have to follow a warranty schedule, getting your car serviced regularly helps maintain its value and is more attractive to potential buyers should you ever need to sell it.
Top reasons for booking a vehicle health check
Vehicle health checks are often offered free by garages.
It’s a quick and convenient way to get your car checked out.
A simple VHC can bring any small problems to light before they become bigger.
A VHC is a good primary indicator that your car is safe.
How much does a vehicle health check cost on average?
On average, a vehicle health check costs £38.53 when booked through FixMyCar. However, some garages offer them for free alongside other repairs and services
How much does an interim car service cost on average?
On average, an interim service costs £139.46 when booked through FixMyCar.
If you think your car needs a vehicle health check or car service, the mechanics in our network can do this for you. Enter your registration and postcode on the homepage to get a quote from a garage near you.
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