Basic services include a general check-up of the vehicle and visual inspection of the vital components such as engine, oil and coolant. On the other hand, logbook services involve checking every element of your car, including tires, suspension and steering systems. A professional mechanic checks brake pads and discs, wheel alignment and toe setting, hubs and bearings to determine whether they are in satisfactory working condition. It is important to note that while a professional car mechanic conducts basic or logbook service, a handbrake adjustment is carried out by an experienced technician specialising in European car repair.

Key differences: logbook service vs basic service

What is a basic car service?

A basic car service is an essential repair process that involves removing and installing the engine oil and filter. This type of service is also known as minor service. A mechanic performs a full under-car inspection, including fluid levels, tyres, brakes, lights, windscreen wipers, wiper blades, and suspension.

What is included in a basic service?

It is recommended that you get a basic service every 6000 miles or every six months, depending on how often you drive your car. This service includes checking the vehicle's oil level, tyre pressure and whether all the lights are working correctly.

Here are some of the top practices that are included in basic car service:

Oil change

Regular oil changes ensure your car runs at its full potential. Your frequent oil change should be completed every 3-6 months, depending on how often you drive your car and the engine type. A basic service will check for oil leaks, replace worn parts such as belts or filters, and ensure no other problems with your vehicle's engine or transmission.

Oil filter change

If an oil filter is not changed regularly, it can cause numerous issues to the engine, which is why you must make sure you change it regularly. If small particles enter the oil, they can cause damage to the piston rings and other vital components of your engine. An oil filter is critical, as it filters the oil around the machine. Particles, dust and dirt can sometimes make their way into the oil, which is why an oil filter replacement is vital. If this is not changed, it can cause all sorts of issues.

Tyre pressure check

Tire pressure is an essential factor in how your tyres perform and wear. Poorly inflated tyres can lead to increased fuel consumption and reduced vehicle stability. Hence, a tyre pressure check is included in the basic service to ensure your tyres are at the right level. Underinflated or overinflated tyres will reduce the lifespan of your tyres, so it's essential to get this checked out.

What is a logbook service?

A logbook service is a standard vehicle examination you should get every 10,000km. This service focuses on safety checks, measurements, replacements, and repairs. It's different from your 100,000km service, which will look at more specific parts of your car. A logbook service is called that because it follows the procedures outlined in the manufacturer's logbook.

What is included in a logbook service?

A logbook service is a vehicle service that most commonly involves a series of standard checks and adjustments. While some car makes and models will differ in the specific details of what's included in their logbook service, almost all logbook services will involve these:

• Check lights

• Check fan belts

• Check radiator hoses

• Check tyre pressures

• Computer battery test

• 40-point vehicle inspection

• Change engine oil & oil filter

• Check steering and suspension

• Brake inspection and adjustment

• Check and top up under bonnet fluid levels

What are the advantages of a logbook service?

Here are some of the top benefits of a logbook service:

Maintaining the warranty

Mechanics perform logbook services to ensure your car is functioning at its best. Your car's warranty is more likely to be upheld when it is proven that you have adequately and regularly taken care of your car, specifically for new or second-hand vehicles that are still within their warranty period. Maintain your car's warranty, and ensure that the manufacturer will repair any faults without leaving you out of pocket.

Enhances the performance

When you service your car regularly, you provide the optimal environment for its performance and longevity. Significant issues are costly and can leave you without a vehicle for an extended period during its repair. Regular maintenance should also increase the lifespan of your vehicle, as consistent care and servicing ensure the optimal performance of your car for an extended period.

Maintains the resale value

Regular logbook services will increase the resale value of your car and reduce the overall cost of replacing it, which makes a great deal of financial sense. The benefits of regular log book services are only apparent to some motorists, but if you want to maximise your money's worth when selling your car and get yourself into a better position financially for purchasing your next vehicle, consider this.

Where can you find your logbook?

Your log book lays out the specifics of all your scheduled maintenance, and you should ensure that you have a copy in your glove box for reference when you take your car to a mechanic. You also need to keep another copy in your records so that if there is any confusion or dispute about servicing or history, you can refer back to the booklet and be confident that you have covered all details.

Conclusion

Basic and logbook services involve the same work but are performed differently. Basic service is performed for vehicles that aren't under warranty. In contrast, your logbook service is a way to validate that your car does indeed need this service to maintain its warranty. So, the choice is yours; whichever service you choose, you should hire professionals. It will ensure you get more insight into the basic and logbook services. It is essential because when you own a luxury car like Mercedes, you should look for the best local automobile specialist for professional Mercedes Benz service Melbourne.