For your life to run smoothly, you need a dependable vehicle. Fortunately, avoiding untimely and expensive repairs and keeping your car in prime condition requires little more than careful attention to routine maintenance. Though the owner’s manual provides the most accurate information, here’s a look at what most manufacturers recommend replacing and when they suggest doing so.
Oil Changes and Fluid Checks – Every 3,000 to 7,000 Miles
With slight variation depending on your make and model, most manufacturers advise replacing oil and filters every three to seven thousand miles. It helps to have the technician check transmission fluid, power steering fluid, wiper fluid, coolant, windshield wipers, tires, and exterior lights at this time, as well.
Filters, Battery and Other Checks – 15,000 to 30,000 Miles
- 15,000 miles – You’ll need a new air filter with every 15,000 miles driven.
- 20,000 miles – Have the battery and coolant checked and replaced/refilled as needed.
- 25,000 miles – This milestone means you likely need a new fuel filter.
- 30,000 miles – You’ll probably need a new air filter and coolant refill at this point. Most experts also recommend having radiator hoses, HVAC system, coolant, brake pads, and suspension components inspected.
- Battery, Spark Plugs and Ignition Check – 35,000 to 50,000 Miles
- Ideally, you should have the battery inspected and repaired/replaced every 35,000 miles.
- 40,000 miles – At this mileage, spark plugs and wires usually need replacing, along with a suspension and ignition system inspection. If everything looks fine at 40,000 miles, have these same inspections repeated at 45,000 and 50,000 miles.
Brakes, Tires and Other Checks – Every 60,000 Miles
At this milestone, experts advise having brake pads/brake fluid, coolant, timing belt, radiator hoses, and power steering fluid inspected and replaced as needed. Other checks at this time include suspension components, HVAC system, and tires.
Major Service at 100,000 Miles
If you’ve made it this far, your car’s performance can start to wane, which means it needs a few major services:
- Engine Fluids – oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid should be checked to avoid buildup and costly repairs.
- Belts – These vital elements can develop cracks, uneven wear, stripping, missing ribbing, or marring at this stage. Having them checked can save you lots of coin down the road.
- Brakes and Tires – These essential elements should be checked regularly, but by 100,000 miles, they can fail completely if not serviced.
For all your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs, remember to call ER Auto Care in Plain City, OH today!
