Free Service: What It Really Means for Your Car
When you hear free service, a promotional offer from a garage that typically includes basic checks and inspections at no cost. Also known as complimentary vehicle check, it’s a chance to catch small problems before they turn into big bills. But here’s the truth: not all free services are created equal. Some shops use them as a trap—get you in for a free tire check, then push a £300 brake job you didn’t need. At Stevenage Tyres & Car Services UK, we believe in transparency. Our free service isn’t a bait-and-switch. It’s a real, no-pressure look at what your car actually needs.
What’s usually covered in a proper free service? oil change, the routine replacement of engine lubricant to prevent wear and maintain efficiency checks, brake inspection, a visual and functional assessment of pads, rotors, and fluid levels to ensure stopping power, tire wear and pressure, battery voltage, and fluid levels. These aren’t fancy extras—they’re the basics that keep your car alive. If a garage skips these, they’re not giving you a free service. They’re giving you a sales pitch.
Our free service includes a full 15-point visual inspection. We check your brake pads, rotors, suspension components, tire tread depth, battery terminals, coolant level, and even your windscreen wipers. We don’t replace anything unless you say yes. No pressure. No upsells. Just facts. If your shocks are worn, we’ll show you the damage. If your oil is black sludge, we’ll tell you why it’s time to change it. We’ve seen too many drivers get scared into repairs they didn’t need. That’s not our style.
And here’s something most places won’t tell you: a free service is your best tool for catching problems early. A cracked radiator hose might cost £5 to fix today. Six months later, it’s a £1,200 engine repair. A weak battery might start your car fine in summer. But in January? It won’t turn over at all. That’s why we offer free service—not to sell you parts, but to give you the information you need to make smart choices.
What you’ll find in the articles below are real, practical guides on exactly what to look for when your car needs attention. How to tell if your brake rotors are worn. When to replace your fuel pump. What happens if you skip an oil change. These aren’t theory pieces. They’re what our customers use every day to decide what to fix, what to wait on, and what to ignore. We’re not here to scare you. We’re here to help you drive smarter.
