It’s easy to put off a car service. Life gets busy, your car seems to be running fine, and let’s be honest—no one jumps out of bed excited to spend money at the mechanic. But skipping your regular car servicing is a bit like ignoring your health check-ups. Things might seem okay on the surface, but under the hood? Trouble could be brewing.
Over the years, we’ve towed more than a few cars off the side of the road simply because routine servicing was missed. And often, the repair bill ends up being much higher than the cost of basic maintenance would’ve been.
It’s Not Just About Oil Changes
When people think of car servicing, they often imagine just an oil and filter change. But a proper service is much more than that. Mechanics inspect your brakes, suspension, tyres, battery, belts, fluids, and other essential parts that keep your car safe and reliable.
Take the cooling system, for example. It doesn’t usually cause problems—until it does. We once towed a car whose driver ignored the check engine light for weeks. Turns out, the coolant hadn’t been topped up or flushed in ages. The engine overheated, the head gasket blew, and that simple fix turned into a $2,500 repair job.
Small Issues Turn Into Big Problems
A squeaky belt, a slow-starting engine, a slight vibration on the freeway—they might seem harmless now, but they’re often signs of something going wrong. Servicing gives your mechanic a chance to catch these small issues before they snowball into expensive repairs or dangerous breakdowns.
A customer once told us he heard a soft grinding noise every time he braked but ignored it. By the time he called for a tow, the brake pads had completely worn out and the rotors were damaged. That quick pad replacement turned into a full brake system overhaul.
Your Safety Is on the Line
Servicing isn’t just about keeping your car running—it’s also about keeping you safe. Faulty brakes, worn tyres, or a dodgy steering component can all lead to accidents. And it doesn’t take a complete failure, either. Even something like uneven tyre pressure or worn-out suspension can affect how your car handles in an emergency.
Regular servicing helps ensure your vehicle is roadworthy and ready to react when you need it to.
It Saves You Money (Yes, Really)
We get it—spending money when nothing seems wrong feels like a waste. But car servicing is one of those things where prevention is far cheaper than cure. Replacing a worn timing belt before it breaks might cost a few hundred bucks. Letting it snap while you’re driving? You could be up for thousands in engine repairs.
Think of it like this: servicing your car is an investment that protects you from surprise costs, sudden breakdowns, and stressful roadside situations (and we say that as people who make a living towing cars!).
You’ll Get Better Performance and Fuel Economy
Servicing also helps your car run more smoothly and efficiently. Fresh oil, clean filters, properly inflated tyres, and aligned wheels all contribute to better fuel economy. That means fewer visits to the petrol station and less wear and tear on the engine over time.
A well-serviced car just feels better to drive. It accelerates better, brakes cleaner, and handles like it should.
Skipping Servicing Can Hurt Your Resale Value
Thinking of selling or trading in your car someday? A solid service history goes a long way in getting a better price. Buyers and dealers love a well-maintained vehicle—it shows you’ve taken care of it. If the logbook is empty or patchy, expect to knock a few hundred (or thousand) off the value.
The Bottom Line
Cars are built to last, but only if you take care of them. Skipping routine servicing might save you a few dollars today, but it can cost you much more down the road—whether it’s in unexpected repairs, breakdowns, or compromised safety.
And if you ever do end up stuck on the side of the road (hey, it happens), we’re always here to help. But if there’s one bit of advice we love giving before you need us—get your car serviced on time. Your future self will thank you.
If you are in Berwick, and looking for a tow truck service, this is the best way to visit us.
Cranbourne Tow Trucks
39 S Gippsland Hwy, Cranbourne VIC 3977
(03) 7042 2059