The intervals below are reliable ballpark figures for cars in Belgium. Your car's service book always takes precedence: some manufacturers lengthen or shorten these intervals. If in doubt, the mechanic checks the exact specifications for your model.
Every 12 months or 15,000 km
- Oil + oil filter change — the basic job. The more you drive in town (short trips), the faster the oil degrades.
- Fluid level check — brake fluid, coolant, screen wash.
- Visual inspection — tyres, lights, wiper blades, brake condition.
Diesel vs petrol: many diesels need a specific oil (manufacturer standard) and a larger quantity — hence a slightly more expensive oil change. The interval, however, is often still yearly.
Every 30,000 – 40,000 km
- Air filter — a clogged filter = higher fuel consumption and loss of power.
- Cabin (pollen) filter — misting, smells, allergies: it's often wrongly forgotten.
- Front brake pads — depending on use (25,000 km in town, up to 100,000 on motorways).
- Spark plugs (petrol) — depending on the type, between 30,000 and 90,000 km.
Every 60,000 – 80,000 km
- Brake fluid — it absorbs moisture over time and loses effectiveness. Replace it roughly every 2 years.
- Fuel filter (especially diesel).
- Brake discs — often at the 2nd set of pads.
- Shock absorbers — keep an eye on them from 80,000 km (see the signs of wear).
Every 100,000 – 160,000 km
- Timing belt — THE item never to neglect: if it snaps, it destroys the engine. The interval varies a lot (60,000 to 160,000 km) depending on the model — check your service book.
- Water pump — often replaced at the same time as the belt (same area, same labour).
- Clutch — lifespan depends heavily on driving style.
The timing belt is non-negotiable. Driving past the interval is playing Russian roulette with an engine bill of €5,000 to €15,000. If you don't know a used car's history, have it checked.
The summary at a glance
Why following the service book also matters when you sell
A car with an up-to-date service book sells faster and for more: the buyer pays for peace of mind. Conversely, a vague history scares buyers off or slashes the price. Keeping the proof (invoices, dates, mileages) — ideally in a digital service book — protects your car's value as much as its reliability.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you change the oil?
Usually every 12 months or 15,000 km, whichever comes first. Mostly urban use (short trips) degrades the oil faster: don't go past the interval.
When should the timing belt be changed?
Between 60,000 and 160,000 km depending on the model — always according to the manufacturer's service book. Never go past it: if it snaps, the engine repair costs several thousand euros.
Can all this maintenance be done at home?
Most routine items (oil change, filters, brakes, battery, diagnostics, shock absorbers) can be done at home. Heavier jobs such as the timing belt are done in a workshop. Warehouse Care covers routine servicing at your place.