The Complete Car Service Checklist (What Should Be Included)

You've booked your car in for a service. The garage says "all done" and hands you a bill. But how do you know the work was actually done properly? After 25 years in the trade, I can tell you that not all services are equal — and some garages cut corners you'd never notice. Here's what should actually be included.

Minor Service Checklist

Every minor service (recommended every 8,000-10,000km in Dubai) should include:

• Engine oil replacement — with oil that meets your manufacturer's specification (this matters enormously)
• Oil filter replacement — always changed with the oil, no exceptions
• Fluid level checks and top-ups: coolant, brake fluid, power steering, washer fluid
• Brake inspection: pad thickness, disc condition, visual check of lines
• Tyre inspection: tread depth, condition, pressure adjustment
• Battery test: load test and terminal condition (critical in Dubai)
• Belt inspection: serpentine belt for cracks and tension
• Lights check: all exterior lights functioning
• Wiper blades: condition check (they deteriorate fast in Dubai sun)
• Undercarriage visual inspection: checking for leaks

Major Service Checklist (Additional Items)

A major service (typically every 20,000-30,000km, or annually) adds:

• Air filter replacement — in Dubai's dusty conditions, this is essential. A clogged air filter reduces power and increases fuel consumption.
• Cabin/pollen filter replacement — affects AC performance and air quality
• Spark plug inspection/replacement (if due based on mileage)
• Brake fluid test — moisture content check, replace if above 3%
• Coolant condition test — pH and boiling point check
• Comprehensive diagnostic scan — checking for stored fault codes across all modules
• Suspension check — bounce test, visual inspection of bushings and mounts
• Exhaust system check — leaks, mounting, catalytic converter
• Detailed road test — checking brakes, steering, transmission behaviour, and unusual noises

Dubai-Specific Additions

Glenn's take: In Dubai, I add these checks to every service because our climate demands it:

• AC system performance test — vent temperature measurement
• Cooling system pressure test — our heat means small leaks become big problems fast
• Battery load test with printout — not just a visual check
• Rubber hoses and belts — heat degrades rubber much faster here

How to Verify the Work Was Done

• Ask for the old oil filter — a good garage will show it to you. If it's not oily and dirty, they didn't change it.
• Check the oil level and colour — fresh oil is honey-coloured, not black
• Request a written report — every check should be documented with condition ratings
• Check your mileage sticker — it should show the correct current mileage and next service due
• Look at the air filter — if it's dusty, it wasn't replaced

At Powerworks, every service comes with a detailed inspection report showing exactly what we checked, what condition everything is in, and what will need attention in the future. No surprises, no hidden problems.

Due for a service? Message me on WhatsApp with your car details and mileage — I'll tell you exactly what's needed and give you a price upfront.