Just Got Your Car Serviced? 5 Things to Check Before You Leave the Workshop

Taking your car for a service is a responsible step towards ensuring its reliability and longevity. You trust the mechanics to do a thorough job, and most of the time, they do. However, even the best workshops can have oversights. Taking just a few minutes to perform a quick post-service check before you leave the premises can save you a lot of hassle and prevent a potential return trip. Here are five simple but crucial things to check.

1. Do a Thorough Visual Walk-Around

Before you even get in the car, do a slow, 360-degree walk around your vehicle in a well-lit area. You are looking for:

• New Scratches, Dents, or Scuffs: Workshops are busy places. It's possible for your car to get a minor bump or scratch while being moved around. It's much easier to address this with the service manager while you are still there than to try and prove it happened at the workshop after you've left.
• Grease and Smudges: Check the paint, door handles, and especially the interior (steering wheel, gear knob, seats) for any greasy handprints or smudges left behind. A professional workshop should return your car clean.
• Tire Condition: Ensure all four tires look properly inflated and check that the valve caps are all securely in place.

2. Check Under the Bonnet

This is a quick but vital check. You don't need to be a mechanic, just look for the basics.

• Check Fluid Caps: Make sure the caps for the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid are all tightly secured. A loose oil cap can lead to a messy and dangerous situation.
• Look for Obvious Leaks or Spills: Check for any fresh fluid drips or spills around the engine bay.
• Ensure the Dipstick is Fully Seated: If you had an oil change, make sure the oil dipstick is pushed all the way back in.

3. Review the Invoice and Service Report Thoroughly

Don't just pay the bill and leave. Take a moment to read through the invoice and any accompanying service report. Check that:

• The work performed matches what you discussed and approved.
• The parts listed are what you agreed upon (e.g., synthetic oil vs. mineral oil).
• Any specific complaints you had were addressed and the resolution is noted.
• The report notes the tread depth of your tires and the condition of your brake pads. This is valuable information for future maintenance planning.

If you have any questions, now is the time to ask the service advisor for clarification.

4. Start the Car and Check the Dashboard

Before you drive off, start the engine and let it run for a minute. Look at the dashboard for any warning lights that weren't there before. A service often involves disconnecting the battery, which can sometimes trigger a warning light that simply needs to be reset. It's better to get it sorted out immediately.

5. Do a Short Test Drive (If Possible)

If you had a specific problem addressed (like a strange noise or a brake issue), it's a good idea to do a very short test drive around the block before you head into heavy traffic. Listen to see if the noise is gone. Test the brakes to ensure they feel firm and responsive. If anything feels 'off' or different, head straight back to the service advisor to discuss it. This quick check confirms the primary issue has been resolved.

A little diligence goes a long way in ensuring a positive service experience. Reputable workshops will be happy to address any concerns you have on the spot. At Drvyn, we partner with trusted and professional garages that prioritize quality and customer satisfaction. Book your next service through our platform for a transparent and reliable experience.