Jun 03, 2025 Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), Dewald Ranft, service, safety check
MIWA - Know the difference between a service and a safety check
With the cost of living on the rise, understanding what you’re paying for when maintaining your vehicle has never been more important. According to the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), many motorists still confuse the terms “service” and “safety check” – but the two are quite different.
“A service is a scheduled and comprehensive maintenance procedure designed to keep your car running smoothly and prevent future problems,” says Dewald Ranft, Chairman of MIWA. “A safety check, on the other hand, is a targeted inspection to ensure your vehicle is safe to drive, particularly before a long journey or when you suspect something might be wrong.”
A vehicle service is typically carried out at regular intervals as recommended by your car’s manufacturer. It includes the replacement of key consumables and a thorough inspection of the car’s overall health. Typical items covered include: Oil and filter changes; Air and fuel filter replacement; spark plug replacement (on petrol engines); brake inspection and adjustment; fluid level checks (coolant, brake fluid, power steering, etc.); inspection of belts, hoses and battery and tyre rotation and inflation check.
A safety check on the other hand is less comprehensive than a full service but is vital for roadworthiness. “It focuses on critical systems that impact safety,” says Ranft. Items typically covered include: brake system inspection; tyre condition and pressure check; lights and indicators test; steering and suspension check; windscreen wipers and washer inspection and seatbelt and restraint system check.
So why does this matter? Understanding the difference can save you money and keep you safer. “A service helps prevent breakdowns and improves performance, while a safety check offers reassurance that your vehicle is safe to drive,” explains Ranft.
MIWA offers the following tips for motorists:
• Ask for a checklist: A reputable MIWA-accredited workshop will always provide one.
• Don’t skip services: Even if your car seems fine, regular servicing is crucial for long-term reliability.
• Book a safety check before travelling: Especially important for long-
Finally make informed choices. MIWA urges all vehicle owners to understand what’s involved in each type of maintenance. “Knowing what to expect ensures you’re not overpaying or missing something vital,” concludes Ranft. “Your safety, and your wallet, depend on it.”
MIWA is a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI).
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