Most new working vans in the UK need servicing roughly every 12 months or 20,000–30,000 miles, but the “normal” answer depends on the van, engine type, duty cycle and whether it uses a fixed or variable (condition-based) service schedule. Your handbook and the van’s service indicator are the rule to follow, especially if you’re leasing or relying on a warranty.

What sets the interval?

Manufacturer schedule: Many new diesel vans are on 12 months/20k-ish mile intervals, while some models can stretch further on variable servicing if they do lots of steady motorway miles. Petrol vans can be similar but vary more by model.

How you use it: Stop-start urban work, short runs, heavy loads, towing, lots of idling (e.g. utilities), dusty sites, or frequent cold starts all tend to shorten real-world intervals. If you’re doing multi-drop in town, expect the van to ask for servicing sooner than the headline mileage.

Diesel DPF and AdBlue: why “short trips” matter

Modern diesels rely on a DPF regeneration cycle. Repeated short journeys can prevent proper regens, leading to warning lights and forced regens/garage visits. That’s not “servicing” as such, but it’s a common reason working vans end up in the workshop more often. AdBlue is a separate top-up item and can be needed between services depending on mileage and load.

Electric vans

New electric vans usually need less routine servicing (no oil changes), but they still have scheduled checks for brakes, suspension, coolant (where fitted), cabin filters and software updates. Tyres can wear faster with heavy payloads.

Two practical checks before you commit

1) What does your warranty/lease require? Missed services can cause disputes. Many leases insist on servicing “on time” (by date/mileage).

2) What’s included in your service plan? Ask whether it covers wear items (brake pads/discs), DPF-related work, and how they handle high-mileage use.

Tip: If you’re ordering new, tell the dealer your typical miles and duty cycle and ask which service regime (fixed vs variable) the van will be set up with from delivery.