Booking your Service, Repair or MOT.
If you wish to book a service, MOT or repair then you can either call: 01293 863535 or email through the website (though a phone call is quicker and easier!), and we will get back to you.
Diagnostics
In the event that there is a problem with your vehicle we have the necessary diagnostic equipment to find the cause.
For Volvo cars we have VIDA, ‘Volvo Information and Diagnostics for Aftersales’. This the official Volvo Dealer software which enables us to carry out functions to your vehicle the same as a Volvo Dealer, whether that is diagnostics, programming, software updates or parts look up. This is in addition to the Autodiagnos diagnostic system (which Volvo use) that we have had for some years for the pre-’99 vehicles. VIDA also gives us access to almost all information that a Dealer has access to so we can even tell you the colour of the stitching on your seats if we had to!
And for the Minis we have the Autologic diagnostic system that also does BMW. Furthermore we have access to the BMW system too through their portal which again gives us access to technical information.
Some General Info
At Charlwood we are committed to giving value for money service using either Genuine parts or a high quality part made by an original equipment manufacturer (OEM). Whilst the majority of service parts are Dealer sourced we also source parts from local suppliers who supply original equipment manufacturer parts, the same quality that the Dealers use. The combination of our local suppliers and our local Volvo and Mini Dealer means we have access to an enviable widespread parts supply chain. It is through this parts sourcing that we can make significant savings in the servicing and maintenance of your vehicle whilst maintaining optimum performance and operation and giving you value for money.
Servicing
There is no substitute for regular servicing. We service your vehicle to the Manufacturer Service schedules. We will not do more than is necessary so if your annual mileage is low then the servicing is adjusted to suit. We will also advise you on the condition of your vehicle and if extra work is required we will advise you of the cost involved and the urgency. We also have the ability to carry out diagnostic checks to the wide variety of computer-controlled systems on your vehicle.
Oil Crisis!
We often find a number of vehicles with very little oil in the sump when we carry out the service. We take out the drain plug and it is all over in seconds! Engine oil is the lifeblood of the engine. Without it, or, with infrequent oil changes, it will result in expensive failures, so regular checking of the oil level is essential. We also use a variety of oil, fuel and cooling system additives that give quite amazing results. The oil additives give even better lubrication promoting quieter running and improved fuel consumption. The fuel additives clean the system and improve the function of the injectors in diesels, giving better starting and general running.
Tyres-they thrive on pressure!
We find a significant number of vehicles with very low pressures during servicing which results in poor directional response and handling. It also wastes your money in excessive tyre wear and higher fuel consumption when it needn’t be the case. A regular check of pressures is essential. The tyre pressures can be found either in the fuel filler flap, the end of the driver’s door or in the door jamb, or of course in the handbook. Be careful to use the ‘psi’ scale on the pressure guage!
For your information the legal minimum tyre depth is 1.6mm over the centre three quarters of the width of the tread.
