Remember Car Service as Well as Carol Service This Christmas

HERTFORD, England, October 25 -- There is nothing more certain to spoil your Christmas than a breakdown. As you make preparations for the festive season, don't forget to include the car on your "things to do" list.

Booking your car in for its regular service, particularly if it is due at this time of year, will not only improve its reliability, safety and environmental performance but also significantly protect its re-sale value. The absence of a service history may knock GBP500 or more off a car's value or, even worse, put off potential buyers completely. Alternatively, many garages offer a winter check of a vehicle's fluid levels, anti-freeze, brakes and tyres.

The advice from the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), the professional association for individuals working in the retail motor sector, is ensure that your car is maintained by qualified professionals. Modern vehicles have huge computing power and complex electrical systems such as ABS, ASC, AWD, EBA and ESP, which could pose a hazard to the unwary technician, not to mention the driver and occupants if incorrectly serviced.

Commented John Tinham, UK Technician of the Year and IMI member:

"Most of us rely on a car every day so it's vital that it is maintained properly and at the manufacturer's recommended intervals. When it comes to a service, communication with the garage is everything, and you have a right to deal with fully trained and qualified staff. If you are shopping around for the best deal, make sure that technicians are adequately qualified to work on your particular make of vehicle."

To give motorists peace of mind, the IMI has a list of handy 'top tips', when it comes to getting the car serviced.

IMI TOP TEN TIPS ON CAR SERVICING

1) Check if the garage employs IMI members, who all possess a membership card to show they are suitably qualified. Ask if the business is registered with a Trading Standards scheme.

2) Ensure that the garage is familiar with your car's make and model.

3) Prior to booking your car in, consider how it's been running. Be honest - inform the service staff of any problems and/or any recent work carried out.

4) Check what is included within the service - ask to see a copy of the service schedule for your vehicle type.

5) Check the breakdown of costs, including all parts, consumables, labour and VAT - you should know exactly what you are paying for.

6) Insist that no additional work is undertaken without your express permission. If recommended, this should be quoted against, not estimated.

7) Ask for any replaced parts to be retained for your inspection upon collection.

8) Ensure that you receive a detailed itemised report with a verbal explanation of the work undertaken and/or recommended. Ask about the garage's quality control checks and make sure your service book is stamped.

9) Ensure that the name of the technician that works on your car is detailed on your invoice. Ask to speak to him or her specifically, if you have any concerns or require necessary explanations.

10) Ensure that you receive a guarantee. Make sure you know what it covers, check the period of validity and identify the complaints procedure, should a query arise.

Visit our web-site at www.motor.org.uk