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5 Signs Your Car Needs a Service (Before It Breaks Down)

5 Signs Your Car Needs a Service (Before It Breaks Down)

Your car may still be running - but is it running well? At Brooklands Auto Centre in Wellington, Telford, we help drivers catch issues before they become expensive breakdowns. If you’ve been putting off a service, here are five warning signs your car might not be as healthy as it seems.

1. Dashboard Warning Lights

If any warning lights come on — especially the engine, oil, or brake light — don’t ignore them. These lights are telling you that something isn’t working as it should. Continuing to drive could lead to further damage or even a breakdown.

What to do: Book in with us for a diagnostic check. We’ll read the fault codes and advise you honestly on what’s needed.

2. Unusual Noises

Knocking, squealing, grinding — strange noises can mean worn brake pads, loose suspension, wheel bearing problems or worse. If something sounds off, it usually is.

What to do: Let one of our experienced technicians inspect it. We’ll identify the cause and fix it before it becomes serious.

3. Difficult Starts or Reduced Performance

If your car is slow to start, struggling to accelerate, or just feels sluggish, you could be looking at a fuel, spark or air intake issue. These problems are often easy to fix during a service, but left alone, they can lead to more severe engine damage.

4. Poor Fuel Economy

Have you noticed your fuel lasting fewer miles than usual? Blocked filters, old oil or underinflated tyres could be affecting efficiency. A routine service checks all of these and more, helping reduce your running costs.

5. Vibrations or Pulling

Vibrations through the steering wheel, or the car pulling to one side, could be related to alignment, tyre condition or brake issues. These not only reduce comfort — they affect safety too.

Why Regular Servicing Matters

Whether your car is nearly new or approaching retirement age, regular servicing is one of the best ways to protect your investment. It helps to:

  • Catch faults early
  • Prevent breakdowns
  • Improve fuel efficiency
  • Maintain resale value
  • Extend the life of your car

Servicing at Brooklands Auto Centre

We offer tailored servicing for all makes and models, including electric and hybrid vehicles. Options include:

  • Interim service: Ideal for every 6 months or 6,000 miles
  • Full service: Annual maintenance to keep your car in top shape
  • Manufacturer-scheduled service: For vehicles under warranty, using OE-spec parts

We only use quality oils, filters and components — no shortcuts, and no unnecessary upselling.

Book Your Car Service in Telford

Located on Bagley Drive, we’re easily accessible from Wellington, Dothill, Apley and the wider Telford area. Let us keep your vehicle safe, smooth and reliable all year round.

Click here to book your service online or call us on 01952 256403.

Brooklands Auto Centre – Trusted car servicing in Wellington, Telford.

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