With winter well on the way, it is important that you check your car is safe and winter ready. Many garages will offer a free winter check where they will check your tyres, levels (oil, antifreeze etc), brakes, battery and window screen wipers for example.
If you want a bit more of an in depth check you can ask if they will give your car a once over car check other components such as exhaust and suspension. The car is put up on a ramp in the workshop and then the mechanic will check over it to see if they can find any corrosion, damage or wear. They sometimes will ask you over to have a look whilst it is on the ramp so you can see for yourself what needs doing. Once the garage has given you a list of items that may need to be replaced, they can provide you with a quote to do the work, but you are under no obligation to take it.
You can also take this list away with you to get quotes from other garages or a second opinion if you need one, before committing to any work being completed.
