A car service is a scheduled set of checks, fluid changes and filter replacements done at the intervals your manufacturer recommends, usually by time or distance, whichever comes first. GVI Service Centre services every make in Penrose, quotes any extra work before starting, and can usually return your car the same day.
A service is how you keep a vehicle reliable, safe and cheaper to run. Where a WOF is a pass-or-fail safety check, a service is maintenance: replacing the things that wear out, topping up and testing the things that age, and spotting small problems while they are still small.
We service petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric vehicles of every make at our Penrose workshop, including ex-Japan imports, utes and vans. We follow your manufacturer's schedule, and if there is no logbook for your vehicle we will work out a sensible schedule with you.
What is included in a typical service
The exact list depends on your vehicle and where it is in its schedule, but a service normally covers:
- Engine oil and filter (petrol, diesel and hybrid), with the correct grade for your engine.
- Air filter and cabin filter, plus spark plugs or the diesel fuel filter when they are due.
- Fluids: brake fluid, coolant, power steering and transmission fluid checked and replaced to schedule.
- Brakes, tyres, suspension and steering inspected, with measurements, not just a glance.
- Battery and charging system tested before it leaves you stranded.
- Lights, wipers, belts and hoses checked for wear and damage.
Petrol, diesel, hybrid or electric
Petrol and diesel. Oil, filters and fluids are the heart of it. Diesels, including utes and vans, rely on clean oil and fuel filters, and we service light commercial vehicles as well as everyday cars.
Hybrid. Hybrids have a conventional engine and a high-voltage system. We service both, and we check the 12V battery and brakes, which hybrids can corrode through light use.
Electric. There is no engine oil, spark plugs or timing belt, but an EV still needs brake fluid, coolant, cabin filters, tyres, suspension checks and a healthy 12V battery. Read more on EV and hybrid servicing or our guide Do electric cars need servicing?
How it works
- Book online or call. Tell us the make, model, year, rego and what is due, and ask for a courtesy car or pickup if you want one.
- Drop off, or we collect. Early drop-off from 7:30am is fine, and there is after-hours key drop. Free local pickup and drop-off is available; we confirm the details when you book.
- We inspect and quote anything extra. If we find something beyond the scheduled work, you hear what and how much before we do it.
- We service, test and return it. Most services are done the same day, and we will tell you what to expect at your next one.
How often should you service your car?
Follow the schedule in your handbook, which is usually expressed in months and kilometres, whichever comes first. Many manufacturers suggest roughly once a year for everyday driving. Short trips, towing, dusty or stop-start driving can justify shorter intervals. Our guide to how often to service your car in New Zealand goes through the factors.
Warranty and logbooks
Many drivers assume they must service at the dealer to keep a manufacturer's warranty. In general, New Zealand consumer law does not require that, provided the work is done properly and to the manufacturer's schedule, and you keep the records. Warranty terms differ, so check yours. Our guide to independent servicing and warranties explains what to look for.
Frequently asked questions
Do you service all makes and models?
Yes. We service every make, including petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric vehicles and ex-Japan imports. We also look after light commercial vehicles such as utes and vans.
How long does a service take?
Most services are completed the same day. Drop the car off early, or wait in our lounge for the lighter ones. We will give you a time frame when you book, and a courtesy car is available subject to availability.
What if you find something else that needs doing?
We quote it before we do it. You decide what goes ahead, and you can choose genuine or quality aftermarket parts.
Do I have to service at the dealer to keep my warranty?
Generally not, as long as the servicing is done to the manufacturer's schedule with suitable parts and fluids, and you keep records. Warranty conditions vary, so check your warranty booklet or ask the warranty provider if you are unsure.
Do you service transmissions, including CVTs?
Yes. Transmission servicing is part of what we do. See engine, cam belt and transmission work.
Can I get a WOF at the same time?
Yes, and it saves a trip. Tell us when you book and we will do the service and the WOF in the same visit.