Kleine beurt and grote beurt: car servicing in the Netherlands explained.

Kleine beurt: the minor service

This is the basic service: an oil and oil filter change, plus a general check of the brakes, tyres, lights and fluids. It's usually done in between two major services.

Grote beurt: the major service

Everything in the kleine beurt, plus items the manufacturer schedules at longer intervals, such as the air filter, cabin filter, spark plugs and, on some cars, brake fluid. The exact list depends on the model.

When to do each one

The manufacturer sets the interval, by mileage or by time, whichever comes first. Many cars need a service once a year. The owner's manual or the onderhoudsboekje (service booklet) shows the schedule. No history? We'll look at the car and make a plan with you.

Distributieriem: the timing belt

Distributieriem is the timing belt. On many engines it has to be replaced at a fixed interval, by mileage or by years. If it snaps, it can wreck the engine, so it's worth knowing when it was last changed. Some engines use a timing chain (distributieketting), which usually lasts longer.

Other words you'll hear

• Remblokken and remschijven: brake pads and discs.
• Schokdempers: shock absorbers.
• Uitlaat: exhaust.
• Koppeling: clutch.
• Accu: battery.
• Storingslampje: warning light on the dashboard.