Car Servicing 101 for Irish Drivers: Suspension, Brakes, Tyres, and the Risks of Overdue Maintenance

April 30, 2025

Skipping a car service might seem like a way to save time or money, but in Ireland, where many of us drive older cars (or “bangers”), overdue maintenance can lead to big problems. Worn suspension, failing brakes, or bald tyres can cause breakdowns, NCT failures, or even accidents—especially on our bumpy, wet roads. Let’s break down why servicing matters, what to inspect, and what happens if you put it off too long. Need help? Chat with Barry for free advice!

Inspect Your Suspension: Don’t Ignore the Bumps

Ireland’s pothole-filled roads are tough on your car’s suspension. Worn shocks or struts can make your car bounce excessively, reduce handling, and even cause uneven tyre wear. Check for signs like a bumpy ride, noises over speed bumps, or your car dipping when you brake. Regular servicing (every 12 months or 15,000 km) keeps your suspension in check—overdue maintenance can lead to costly repairs, like replacing control arms or wheel bearings, which can run €300–€500.

Check Your Brakes: Safety First

Your brakes are critical for safety, but they wear out over time—especially if you’re braking hard on hilly Irish roads. Listen for squeaking or grinding noises, or feel for a spongy brake pedal. During a service, mechanics inspect brake pads, discs, and fluid levels. If you skip servicing, worn brake pads can damage discs (costing €200+ to replace), and low brake fluid can lead to brake failure. Don’t risk it—get your brakes checked before a small issue becomes a dangerous one.

Examine Your Tyres: Grip Matters

Tyres are your car’s only contact with the road, and Ireland’s wet, uneven roads demand good tread. The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm, but 3mm is safer for wet conditions. Use a 20c coin to check: if the outer rim is visible in the tread, your tyres are too worn. Also, look for uneven wear (a sign of suspension issues) and check tyre pressure monthly. Overdue servicing can miss these problems, leading to blowouts, fines (€80+), or NCT failure. A new set of tyres can cost €200–€400, so don’t delay!

The Risks of Overdue Maintenance

Putting off a service might save you €150 now, but the consequences can be costly. Overdue maintenance can lead to breakdowns (leaving you stranded on a rural road), NCT failures (costing €55 to retest, plus repairs), or worse—accidents due to faulty brakes or tyres. You might also face higher repair bills: a €50 brake fluid change can prevent a €500 brake system overhaul. Regular servicing keeps your car safe, reliable, and NCT-ready, saving you money and stress in the long run.

Need Advice? Chat with Barry

Not sure if your car’s overdue for a service? Hearing a noise from your suspension or brakes? Chat with Barry, your virtual mechanic, for free advice tailored to your car. Barry can help you diagnose issues, estimate repair costs, or guide you through a DIY check. Stay safe on Irish roads this summer—click here to chat with Barry now!

Want more car tips? Join our community for updates and offers!