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As the person responsible for your tuition vehicle, you’re trusted to make sure it’s well maintained, roadworthy and serviced regularly. But servicing your car according to the AA service intervals document is more than just a box-checking exercise.
A well-maintained car is the beating heart of any driving instructor’s business, so it needs to be kept in tip-top condition – especially while experiencing above-average levels of wear and tear.
To help ensure your car stays in warranty, it’s vital that you get your car serviced in line with the AA service intervals document. To help you know when a service is due, we recommend updating your mileage on Hubcapp at the start of each month. You can book in a service online or contact AA Prestige Fleet servicing on 0330 159 8070 – and remember, your mandatory services are already included as part of your franchise fee.
A safe, reliable vehicle can help you in the following ways:
1. It keeps you and your pupils safe
There’s no avoiding this fact: teaching people to drive involves a certain amount of risk which can’t be eliminated. But using a car in the best-possible condition will certainly reduce the chances of things going wrong.
As you’re no doubt aware, learner drivers often make sudden stops, crunch gears and overuse the clutch or brakes – all of which put strain on the car. Regular servicing and maintenance helps keep crucial components like brakes, tyres, steering and suspension in the best working order, reducing the chances of mechanical failure.
Other safety features will be checked and maintained during a service, such as the seatbelts and airbags.
In between services, remember to also keep on top of all fluids (e.g. oil and water levels) so your lessons run without unwanted setbacks.
2. It presents a professional image
Your car is your shop front. Anything less than a well-oiled machine could give a negative impression to your pupils. And – just as importantly – to the bill payer, usually their parents. If it makes strange noises or warning lights pop up on the dashboard, it could scupper your pupil’s confidence.
On the other hand, a clean, smooth-running car will boost your credibility. If a pupil feels you’re reliable, they’re likely to feel reassured, going into lessons with more confidence.
3. It avoids unexpected breakdowns
If your car breaks down during a lesson, this can reflect badly on you. But breaking down at any time is a problem for a driving instructor, and can prove costly in terms of lost lessons.
Keeping your car serviced helps prevent minor issues turning into major catastrophes. When a mechanic services your vehicle, they can identify worn-out parts, leaks and engine problems before they get out of hand.
And remember to download The AA app – it’s the fastest way to get help if you are unlucky enough to break down.
4. It can prevent long-term issues & avoid fees
Getting your car serviced is included in your franchise fee, so why not take advantage of it? It’ll also help prevent minor issues such as worn brake pads, or low oil or fluid levels escalating into bigger problems later.
Plus, if you return your vehicle without a complete service record then you’ll be charged a Missed Vehicle Servicing Fee, as detailed in the AA Driving School Tuition Vehicle Handbook. This is to make up for the car’s lifespan being shortened, plus, if you don’t get it serviced, it could mean that the manufacturer’s warranty is invalidated.