Don’t lift a finger until something breaks. False economy – you’ll save a few hundred dollars now; pay thousands in expensive repairs later.

The dealership service department – they want you back as a new-car customer, so they’re motivated to look after you, but they’re also generally the most expensive option.

A local, trusted mechanic – one-on-one relationship with you and your car, and can generally save you money, but might not own the full complement of expensive brand-specific specialist diagnostic tools.

Specialist servicing franchise – some offer come-to-you convenience, plus valuable service quality ‘to manufacturer’s specification’ guarantees.

INTERVAL TERRAINING: HOW LONG SHOULD I LEAVE IT?

Service intervals are specified in the owner’s handbook. Usually it’s based on