How do you keep your car reliable? Servicing and warning signs

Prevention rather than repair

Wear happens gradually. Brake pads get thinner, engine oil loses its lubricating properties and rubber parts age even if the car is rarely driven. Having these developments checked regularly lets you spot problems before they cause further damage and keeps costs predictable.

The manufacturer's service schedule is the benchmark. It sets intervals by mileage or time, whichever comes first. Many vehicles show the next service on the display; the service book or digital service record documents the work and later supports the resale value.

The cheapest repair is the one that a timely check makes unnecessary.

The key service points at a glance

Area	What is checked	Guideline
Engine oil and filter	Oil level, oil quality, filter change	As specified by the manufacturer, earlier with frequent short trips
Brakes	Pads, discs, lines, brake fluid	At every service; brake fluid often every two years
Tyres	Tread depth, age, damage, pressure	Check pressure yourself monthly
Lights	Headlights, indicators, brake lights	Regularly yourself, before long journeys
Suspension and steering	Shock absorbers, joints, play	At every service
Battery	Charge, terminals	Before winter
Exhaust system	Corrosion, leaks, mountings	At every service

You can keep an eye on much of this yourself: oil level, tyre pressure, screen wash and lights require no garage. Anything involving brakes, steering or electrics, on the other hand, belongs in expert hands.

Taking warning signs seriously

Sign	Possible cause	Urgency
Squealing, grinding or vibration when braking	Worn pads or discs	Have it checked soon
Longer braking distance, soft pedal	Brake fluid, leak in the system	Do not keep driving
Red oil or temperature warning light	Oil pressure or cooling problem	Stop immediately, switch off the engine
Amber engine warning light	Emissions, sensor or ignition fault	Have it read out soon
Loud droning from underneath	Leaking or corroded exhaust	Have it checked; fumes may enter the cabin
Loss of power, jerking	Ignition, injection, turbocharger	Arrange a diagnosis

Do not just treat symptoms

Clearing a warning light without knowing the cause only postpones the problem. A professional diagnosis reads the fault memory, tests the components involved and narrows down the cause, so the repair is neither too limited nor unnecessarily extensive.

MFK inspection, tyres and warranty

In Switzerland, every vehicle is periodically inspected by the cantonal road traffic office (the MFK). For passenger cars, the first inspection usually takes place five years after first registration, then after three years and every two years thereafter. The exact summons arrives by post; a pre-check at a garage often saves a re-inspection.

Legal minimum tread depth: 1.6 millimetres; for winter tyres, experts recommend considerably more, often 4 millimetres.
There is no general winter tyre obligation, but anyone who causes an accident with unsuitable tyres risks consequences for fines and insurance.
The manufacturer's warranty is generally preserved if servicing follows the manufacturer's specifications with equivalent parts and is documented. Check your warranty terms.

Rules and deadlines can change; your cantonal road traffic office is the authoritative source.

Choosing the right garage

Check expertise with your make or drive type, especially for hybrid and electric vehicles.
Ask for a written quote and agree that additional work is only done after consultation.
Ask to see replaced parts and check that the invoice items are traceable.
Ask about diagnostic equipment and access to manufacturer data.
Look for practical services: courtesy car, pick-up and drop-off, tyre storage.

Franchised dealers and independent garages both have their strengths. What matters is transparency, availability and a willingness to explain findings clearly.

Frequently asked questions

How often should my car be serviced?

According to the manufacturer's schedule, usually by mileage or time, whichever comes first. If you drive many short trips or tow a trailer, go earlier.

How do I recognise brake problems?

By noises, vibration, a soft pedal or a longer braking distance. Have the brakes checked immediately, and with a soft pedal do not keep driving.

Can I keep driving with the engine warning light on?

If it is amber and the car drives normally, you can usually drive carefully to a garage. If it flashes or a red warning light comes on, stop and call for help.

Does servicing have to be done at a franchised dealer?

Not necessarily. What matters is that work follows the manufacturer's specifications and is documented. Check the terms of your warranty or lease.

How do I prepare for the MFK inspection?

Check lights, tyres, wipers and warning lights yourself and, for older vehicles, have a pre-check at a garage. This helps avoid objections.

Regular servicing is not a chore but the simplest insurance for safety and value retention.