Servicing?

beachlou

Hello,

My OH's car needs a service. It's a '51 Vectra (Diesel) and has done a little over 65,000miles. It was bought when it had done just over 47,000 (last April). I was just wondering what kind of service does it need? I have had a quick look at the nationwide autocentres website (we have a 15% off voucher for services) and there are 3 kinds. I've heard some not great things about this centre, but wondering if it's worth going to for the discount?

Also, any ideas how much we would be looking at for the service?

Thanks

DavidHM

Ideally it should have an intermediary oil change every 9,000 miles to keep the oil fresh and keep the engine well-lubricated, especially the turbo.

Hoewver, as it has been 18,000 miles since the last service I would want the car to have the following renewed:-

1. Replace oil and filter - using a good semi-synthetic oil;
2. Replace air filter;
3. Replace fuel filter;
4. Replace pollen filter;
5. Check tyres, brakes, steering, etc.;
6. Check other suspension and safety-related components;
7. Possibly check that exhaust is not blowing but exhausts can be replaced on an ad hoc basis.
8. Consider a flush and replacement of the coolant and brake fluid if not done for two or more years;
9. There are no glow plugs or ignition components that should need replacement at this age of car - on a petrol car I'd probably have spark plugs done too.

I'd want that lot done for under £150 including replacement of anything expressly stated, but excluding replacement of any non-consumables not included in the service.

There's no timing belt on this car as far as I know or I'd have that done as well (because of age and mileage of the car, not miles since the last service).

If you have heard "not great things" about a place then it's hardly worth going there for a discount. They're unlikely to be much, if any cheaper than a trustworthy independent mechanic who is likely to be more sympathetic and more experienced than the person who's working for a chain on a relatively low salary.

beachlou

That's fab, thanks DavidHM-great bit of advice. Will start ringing around garages for some quotes

Quinny_2

Just as an afterthought........

If you post on here where you are,someone may be able to recommend a good garage.

Ken.

beachlou

Good idea Quinny. We're based in Honiton, Devon but OH works in Exmouth so would be best to get a garage there