Free Service: What You Can Actually Get Without Paying for Car Maintenance

When you hear free service, a promotional offer from a garage that includes basic inspections and checks at no cost. Also known as complimentary car check, it often includes brake inspections, fluid levels, and tyre condition reviews. But here’s the truth: most free service offers aren’t really free. They’re designed to get your car in the door, then upsell you on repairs you didn’t know you needed. That’s why it’s smart to know exactly what should be included — and what’s just a sales pitch.

Real free service in the UK usually means a visual inspection, not a full diagnostic. Many garages will check your brake pads, the friction material that slows your car by pressing against the rotors, look for leaks in your radiator, the component that cools engine coolant to prevent overheating, and confirm your oil level, the lubricant that keeps engine parts from grinding together. These are quick, low-cost checks. But if they tell you your rotors are worn, your clutch is slipping, or your suspension is failing — and you didn’t notice any symptoms — ask for proof. Most places won’t show you the damage unless you pay for a full diagnostic.

Some places offer free service as part of a warranty or loyalty program. Others run them after you buy parts from them. But if you’re just walking in off the street and they’re offering a free service, treat it like a trial run. Use it to ask questions, get a second opinion, and compare notes with what you’ve read here. The posts below show you how to spot real problems — like when brake pads need replacing, why your radiator might be leaking, or if your clutch is truly worn out. You’ll learn how to tell the difference between a legitimate warning and a sales tactic. No jargon. No fluff. Just what you need to know to avoid getting overcharged.