Your Service Plan Extension Explained

Service Plan Extension Explained: Your Responsibilities as a Customer 

Sometimes the things that seem simple are never explained simply. It shouldn’t have to be that way. In South Africa, the importance of car maintenance has been mentioned time and time again, reminding drivers that having a Service Plan isn’t just for new cars – it can be a deal-breaker when buying or selling yours.

The point of a Service Plan extends beyond the mileage limit and years on the road; it says a lot about you as a car owner, and understanding how it can benefit you will really come through for you when you need it most. 

We’ll cover everything you need to know about your plan, what it includes, and what your responsibilities are as a customer, and in turn, prevent breaching the policy with the most preventable mistakes. 

Why Do We Need a Service Plan for Cars

A Service Plan (especially if you buy a new vehicle) will automatically cover regular service intervals performed by an OEM-approved facility. Keep in mind that a Service Plan does not cover wear-and-tear items that are covered by a Maintenance Plan.

Without regular car maintenance, you will find yourself paying out-of-pocket for minor or major repairs. 

If you’d like to learn more, read this: The difference between car Maintenance Plans and Service Plans.

What is a Service Plan Extension?

A Service Plan extension is exactly how it sounds. It’s an extension of your car’s maintenance schedule once your original manufacturer's Service Plan has expired or you’ve purchased a pre-owned car without a transferable plan. 

What Does a Service Plan Cover? 

A Service Plan ensures your car is serviced in agreement with OEM specs. This includes the service and replacement of:

• Air filter element
• Brake and clutch fluid
• Coolant
• Differential fluid
• Engine oil
• Fuel filter
• Oil filter
• Pollen filter element
• Spark plugs
• Sump plug gasket
• Transmission fluid
• Workshop consumables 

Understanding Customer Responsibilities

To ensure compliance and overall support from your service provider, it is your responsibility to ensure the following: 

1. Service your vehicle on time: Take your vehicle in for its regular service as per the OEM requirements outlined in your service manual, whether that's every 15,000km or every 12 months from your last service. 
   • Tip: If you accidentally miss your service schedule, check with your provider about a grace period to avoid cancelling your plan.
      
2. Take good care of your car:  All Service Plan holders should take reasonable steps to maintain the condition of their vehicle through preventative maintenance, including, but not limited to: checking engine oil, coolant levels, and tyre pressure. 
    
3. Maintain monthly payments: If you’ve purchased a monthly plan, always pay on time and ensure your account has enough funds. If you are late or past the grace period, your plan could be suspended immediately, and benefits could be cut off, affecting your claim. 
    
4. Do not misuse or abuse your car: Planholders will be expected to use their vehicles for their intended purposes. You should NOT: 
   • Race or rally against other vehicles
   • Drive passengers to and from for cash (unless discussed in the contract)
   • Offer towing services
   • Overload your car with passengers
   • Exceed weight limits and full trailers
      
5. Do not modify your vehicle: You will need to confirm that neither you nor anyone else has made any modifications to your car, especially non-original OEM accessories such as turbocharging your engine. 

How to Organise Your Service 

When your car calls for a service that’s offered under your plan, here’s a general guideline on what to expect.

• Book your car into an approved facility set out by your provider. 
• Inform the service advisor/consultant that you have an active Service Plan and provide them with your plan number. 
• The service advisor/consultant will communicate with the authorisation department. Once received, your vehicle service can begin.
• Any repairs or replacements that are not included in your plan will be paid for by you.
• Check the invoice and ensure the requested work was covered.

Tip: Depending on your Service Plan, you are responsible for ensuring the authorised facility has proper paperwork and settling any balances.

Exclusive Benefits Through MotorHappy

Through MotorHappy, a Service Plan isn’t just another policy for a vehicle; it rewards its car owners. From saving documents online using MYGARAGE and reminders to discounts and vouchers with MotorHappy DRIVE, there’s so much to brag about when you purchase a plan here.

With certain plans, you can expect certain benefits (which may be limited in some instances) like:

• Roadside assistance
• Towing
• Car hire or accommodation
• Tyre change
• Fuel run
• Jump start
• Key lockout

Bottom Line

The bottom line is, taking good care of your car is pretty important. From preventive car maintenance you can do at home to having your vehicle checked at an approved workshop, it all counts. With each service, you’re maximising the value of your vehicle and ensuring a safe car ride for you and your passengers.