Car service types explained
Get the details on different car service types and see which one suits your needs
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By Tia Harrison-North
Last updated: 9 October 2025
Different types of car service explained
When it comes to car maintenance, getting to grips on different car service types will help you plan your car’s upkeep in advance.
There are three types of car servicing to choose from, each serving a different function. So, how do you know which one to choose?
We explain each car service type in our guide below, including how much they cost and when you should schedule each one.
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Different types of car service in the UK
You’ll have three types of car servicing to choose from in the UK, whether you drive a petrol, diesel, hybrid or electric car.
They may include slightly different checks depending on your type of car, but you’ll still get the same level of maintenance and inspection no matter your fuel type.
In a nutshell, these are the three types of car servicing:
Interim service – covers basic checks and fluid top-ups and is recommended every six months or 6,000 miles
Full service – more comprehensive, recommended annually or every 12,000 miles
Major service – includes everything in a full service plus additional replacements, recommended every two years
Interim service
An interim service is a sort of buffer between the larger and more thorough service options that will help you keep your car in check. It’s sometimes known as a minor service.
What’s included in an interim service?
An interim service usually includes:
Oil change
Oil filter change
Thorough inspection of the entire car, including tyres and suspension
When should I get an interim service?
It’s recommended to get an interim/minor service every six months or 6,000 miles. They’re especially ideal for drivers that cover a lot of miles, to ensure your car is properly maintained.
How much is an interim service?
An interim service is the cheapest of the servicing options. It will usually set you back around £70 to £250, depending on the car and the garage/centre you use.
cinch oil and filter change
We don’t offer a full interim/minor service here at cinch, but you can get a standalone oil and filter change for £129.95.
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Full service
A full/standard service is probably the one you think of when servicing comes to mind. It offers more than an interim but not quite as much as a major service, and helps keep your car maintenance in check.
What’s included in a full service?
A full service can vary depending on the garage/centre, but in general it includes:
Oil and oil filter change
Top up on screen wash and coolant
In depth car health inspection
When should I get a full service?
A full service is recommended every 12 months or 12,000 miles. You can slip in an interim service between your full service appointments to really keep things in good condition.
How much is a full service?
The cost of a full service will vary, just like with interim servicing. They’ll usually cost between £170 to £400.
cinch standard service
Our cinch standard service is £159.95 and includes all of the above. It’s exactly the same as a full service and we recommend the same 12-month/12,000-mile intervals.
Major service
A major service is the big boy and doesn’t come round as often as full/standard or interim servicing. This one is ideal if you’re a heavy driver and cover a lot of miles.
What’s included in a major service?
A major service will differ depending on the garage/centre, but typically includes:
Everything from a standard service
Cabin air filter change
Clutch fluid top-up
Brake fluid change
Power-steering fluid top-up
A full diagnostic scan of the car and a fault report
When should I get a major service?
A major service should be carried out every 24 months or 24,000 miles. You can get one sooner if you think your car needs the extra attention, or if you've just purchased a used car and want to give it a full refresh.
How much is a major service?
A major service is typically the most expensive of the lot, costing anywhere from £250 to £500.
cinch major service
At cinch, a major car service costs £214.95 per vehicle, even if you didn’t purchase your car from us. We also offer MOTs for £39.95.
Book your car service with cinch
So, you’ve got three different types of car services to choose from, and each one has a different function.
Plenty of modern cars will let you know when they’re due a service with the servicing light on the dashboard, and the servicing book can also help you keep track.
You might also have the option to choose a servicing plan when purchasing your car.
Book a service with cinch using our online booking system, or give us a call.