WHAT’S INCLUDED IN A CAR GENERAL SERVICE? THE COMPLETE AUTHORITY GUIDE FOR DHAKA

Jan 10, 2026

What’s Included in a Car General Service? The Complete Authority Guide for Dhaka

Driving in Dhaka exposes your vehicle to a severe operating environment. The intense heat, heavy monsoon rains, and constant dust accelerate wear and tear. A general car service is not just a routine check; it is a preventive health check for your vehicle.

At Biswas Automobiles, we believe in total transparency. This guide details every component inspected, replaced, and tested during a full general service. We explain the technical "why" behind every task, specifically tailored for the conditions in Bangladesh.

Understanding the Levels of Car Service

Drivers often ask which service package they need. Knowing the difference prevents overpaying or neglecting critical maintenance.

Interim Service (Basic): This occurs every 6 months or 6,000 km. It focuses on safety and fluid changes. It includes an oil change, tyre check, and brake inspection.
Full General Service (Standard): This is the comprehensive annual service. It covers the interim service plus in-depth inspections of the suspension, charging system, and a detailed diagnostic scan. We recommend this every 12 months or 12,000 km.
Major Service (Deep Dive): This happens every 24 months. It includes critical replacements like brake fluid, transmission fluid, and coolant flushes.

This guide focuses on the Full General Service. This is the industry standard for maintaining vehicle value and safety.

The Strategic Importance of Context: Why Dhaka is Different

Generic service manuals often fail in Dhaka. We adjust our inspection criteria based on local environmental stressors.

Thermal Degradation: Average temperatures exceeding 30°C cause engine oil to thin faster. We check oil viscosity rigorously to prevent metal-on-metal friction.
Humidity and Corrosion: High humidity accelerates oxidation on electrical terminals and brake components. We apply anti-corrosion treatments where necessary.
Particulate Matter: Construction dust and exhaust fumes clog air filters rapidly. A dirty filter restricts airflow and forces the engine to work harder.
Suspension Stress: Navigating potholes and speed bumps places high loads on shock absorbers and control arms. We inspect these for stress fractures and leaks that standard checks might miss.

The Full General Service Checklist

A full service is a systematic process. We categorize checks by system to ensure total coverage.

Engine Oil and Lubrication System

The engine is the most expensive component to replace. We treat it with extreme care.

Engine Oil Replacement: We drain degraded oil and refill it with manufacturer-recommended viscosity oil. This minimizes friction and maintains fuel efficiency.
Oil Filter Change: We install a new OEM-grade filter to trap contaminants. Using a quality filter prevents debris from circulating back into the engine.
Leak Checks: We inspect the oil pan and drain plug for leaks.

Cooling System

Overheating is a primary cause of engine failure in stop-and-go Dhaka traffic.

Antifreeze/Coolant Check: We test the specific gravity and freezing point. We ensure the coolant concentration is optimal for heat dissipation.
Radiator and Hoses: We inspect the radiator core for blockage (dust/dead insects) and check hoses for bulging or soft spots that indicate impending failure.
Thermostat Operation: We verify the thermostat opens at the correct temperature to allow coolant flow.

Braking System

Brakes are your first line of defense.

Pad and Shoe Thickness: We measure pad lining depth against manufacturer minimums. Worn pads damage the disc rotor, increasing repair costs.
Disc and Drum Condition: We check discs for scoring or warping. Warped discs cause vibration in the steering wheel.
Brake Fluid Quality: We use test strips to check for copper content. High copper levels indicate internal corrosion of the ABS pump.
Handbrake Adjustment: We adjust the cable tension to ensure the car holds securely on steep inclines.

Tyres, Wheels, and Alignment

Tyres affect handling, braking, and fuel economy.

Tread Depth and Wear Pattern: We measure tread depth. Uneven wear (feathering or cupping) often indicates suspension or alignment issues.
Tyre Pressure: We inflate tyres to the PSI specified on the door placard. Correct pressure extends tyre life.
Wheel Alignment Check: We check alignment specifications. Potholes in Dhaka often knock wheels out of alignment, causing dragging and uneven tyre wear.

Battery and Charging System

Heat kills batteries faster than cold. We proactively test your battery to prevent you from getting stranded.

State of Health (SOH) Test: We use a conductance tester to measure the battery's ability to hold charge. We replace weak batteries before they fail.
Alternator Output: We verify the alternator produces the correct amperage to charge the battery and run the electronics.
Starter Motor Draw: We check for excessive current draw that indicates worn brushes.

Suspension and Steering

Worn suspension compromises safety and tyre life.

Shock Absorbers: We perform a bounce test and visual inspection for oil leaks. Worn shocks increase stopping distance significantly.
Ball Joints and Bushings: We check for play (looseness) in the steering rack and suspension arms. Excessive play causes vague steering.
Power Steering Fluid: We check fluid levels and look for metal particles, which indicate pump wear.

Air Filtration

Clean air is vital for engine efficiency and your health.

Engine Air Filter: We replace clogged filters. A dirty filter restricts airflow, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel.
Cabin/Pollen Filter: We replace this to maintain air quality inside the car. A blocked filter reduces AC efficiency and can cause foggy windows.

Exterior Care: The Importance of Professional Car Wash

A general service is not complete without a proper wash. We include a professional car wash as a standard part of our full service package for three critical reasons.

Corrosion Prevention: Dhaka’s humidity creates a high risk of rust. Mud and road grime trap moisture against the metal body and undercarriage. A thorough wash, particularly of the wheel arches and undercarriage, removes this corrosive material.
Visual Inspection Aid: Dirt hides problems. By washing the car first, our technicians can perform a much more accurate visual inspection. Clean metal makes it easy to spot fresh oil seeps or coolant leaks.
Paint Maintenance: Road tar and acidic contaminants damage paint over time. We use a gentle yet effective wash process to clean the exterior.

Hybrid and Electric Vehicle (HEV/EV) Protocols

Biswas Automobiles specializes in hybrid and EV technology. Standard garages often miss critical checks for these vehicles.

High-Voltage Battery Health: We monitor the State of Charge (SOC) and battery temperature trends. Heat management is critical for hybrid battery longevity in Bangladesh.
Inverter Coolant: This separate cooling system is vital. We check levels and conditions to prevent inverter failure.
Regenerative Braking System: We scan for faults in the electric motor braking system.

Advanced Diagnostics: The "German Standard" Approach

Modern cars are computers on wheels. Visual checks are not enough.

OBD-II Scanning: We plug into the Engine Control Unit (ECU) to read stored fault codes.
Software Updates: We check for manufacturer ECU updates that can improve performance or fix bugs.
Digital Reporting: We provide you with a digital health report with photos and clear explanations.

Signs Your Car Needs Immediate Service

Warning Lights: Any light on the dashboard signals a problem.
Unusual Noises: Squealing brakes, grinding gears, or knocking from the engine.
Vibrations: Shaking in the steering wheel or seat.
Fluid Leaks: Puddles under the car suggest a leak.
Reduced Fuel Efficiency: If you fill up more often, your engine might run inefficiently.
Soft Brake Pedal: If the pedal feels spongy or goes to the floor.

Service Duration, Cost, and Process

Duration

A full general service typically takes between 3 and 5 hours. This allows us to perform checks thoroughly and road test the vehicle.

Cost

Costs vary based on the type of oil and parts required. We provide a detailed quote before starting any work. We never perform repairs without your approval.

The Process

Drop Off: You leave your car with us.
Service: Technicians perform the checklist and diagnostics.
Wash: We clean the vehicle.
Report: We call you with findings and a quote for any extra repairs.
Approval: You approve the work.
Pick Up: You drive away in a safe, clean car.

Why Choose Biswas Automobiles?

Genuine Parts: We use authentic parts to ensure reliability.
German Paint Technology: We offer world-class dent repair and painting.
Skilled Technicians: Our team trains on the latest diagnostic tools.
Hybrid Experts: We have the specific expertise for modern hybrid and electric vehicles.
Convenience: We provide emergency roadside assistance and home service with towing.
Transparency: We explain every finding and provide a clear digital report.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I service my car?
Most manufacturers recommend every 12 months or 12,000 kilometers. However, for severe driving conditions like Dhaka traffic, we suggest checking oil and filters every 6 months.

Is a general service the same as an MOT?
No. An MOT is a safety inspection. A general service involves maintenance and replacement of fluids and parts to keep the car running well.

Does the service include a car wash?
Yes, we include a professional car wash and interior vacuum in our full service package.

Can I wash my car before the service?
Yes, a clean car helps our technicians spot leaks and body damage easily. However, we perform a full wash as part of the process regardless.

Do you service European cars?
Yes, we specialize in European car care. We have the diagnostic tools for brands like BMW, Mercedes, and Audi.

What happens if you find a major problem?
We stop and call you. We explain the issue and provide a quote. We only proceed with major repairs after you give the go-ahead.

Book Your Service Today

Regular maintenance protects your investment and your family. Do not ignore your car’s needs. Biswas Automobiles is ready to deliver a premium service experience.

Biswas Automobiles
Ka-60, Soudi Mosjid Road, Nodda, Dhaka 1212
📞 +8801742700300
✉ [email protected]

Drive safe. Drive with Biswas Automobiles.