A Vehicle Service Schedule Helps You Save
Keeping up with your car's maintenance schedule is one of the simplest ways to have your vehicle avoid expensive breakdowns. Regular service helps your engine, brakes, suspension, and other systems run smoothly while lowering the risk of sudden breakdowns that could leave you in a bad spot. A little preventative work now can save you big repair bills later.
Many vehicles on the road are overdue for basic maintenance services. Skipping oil changes, tire rotations, or fluid checks might not cause immediate damage, but over time it wears down vital parts and shortens your car's lifespan.
Beyond safety and reliability, proper maintenance can also improve resale value. A well-maintained car with detailed service records is a far more attractive option to buyers and often sells for a higher price than a vehicle with irregular upkeep.
What Is a Maintenance Schedule?
A maintenance schedule is a mileage-based guide that outlines when your car needs routine services like oil changes, fluid checks, and part replacements. Having this information readily available helps you make informed decisions about your vehicle.
A Vehicle Maintenance Schedule for Every Driver
While exact recommendations vary based on your driving habits and vehicle type, most cars follow a pattern of services tied to odometer readings. Here's a general guide of when to expect different maintenance needs:
Every 5,000 miles
- Change the oil and oil filter (if using conventional oil)
- Check and top off fluids (brake, coolant, windshield washer)
- Inspect tires for wear and ensure proper tire pressure
Every 10,000 miles
- Rotate tires to promote even wear
- Replace oil and filter if using synthetic oil
- Inspect the cabin air filter and engine air filter; replace if dirty
Routine Car Maintenance: 30,000-90,000 miles
At 30,000 miles
- Replace engine air filter if not already done
- Inspect fuel system and fuel filter
- Inspect brake pads, hoses, and lines for wear
At 60,000 miles
- Replace spark plugs to keep your engine firing smoothly
- Inspect and potentially replace tires
- Check belts, hoses, and (if applicable) the timing belt - replace as needed to avoid costly damage
At 90,000 miles
- Flush and replace brake fluid
- Inspect and clean battery terminals
- Perform a full mechanical inspection for aging components
Routine Car Maintenance: 100,000 miles and beyond
At 120,000 miles
- Replace O2 sensors and coolant
- Flush the radiator and replace thermostat if needed
- Inspect shocks and struts for wear; replace if driving feels rough
At 180,000 miles
- Replace power steering fluid
- Clean the mass airflow sensor for better fuel efficiency
- Inspect all seals and gaskets, especially around the axles and driveshafts
At 250,000 miles
- Clean or replace fuel injectors to maintain performance
- Inspect the chassis for rust or damage
- Check the catalytic converter and emissions system
Why Should I Follow a Maintenance Schedule?
Following a maintenance schedule ensures that small issues are caught before they turn into expensive repairs. It keeps your car safe to drive, extends the life of major components, and gives you peace of mind on the road.
Where Do I Find My Car's Maintenance Schedule?
The best place to check is your vehicle's owner's manual, which outlines the manufacturer's recommendations for each mileage interval. If you're unsure or can't find your manual, our team at Autowise Automotive is happy to help.
Just give us a call at 510-284-0074, and we'll guide you on the services your car needs and when to schedule them.
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What People Say About Us
I've been going to Autowise for years. The people who work there are friendly and professional. Right now my family owns and maintains 5 cars. Autowise services all of them, and I have never been stuck by the side of the road in any of them because they do such good work. That is very important to me, especially when my children are behind the wheel. As far as price goes...cars are not cheap to maintain! I would recommend that you shop around. You might find a better price, but remember the old saying...You get what you pay for!
Professional & experienced staff!!
I take my two cars to them, I always had good experience with them. They identified the issue and proposed the fix, estimation and upon approval they did the fix. It worked great. I feel , they are honest hard working and only recommends what needs to be changed to keep the car in good condition. The quotes are reasonable This makes me trust them.
The shop is a great shop they have excellent mechanics that really know your car inside and out there little spendy but I recommend them!
The folks at AutoWise are terrific! They diagnose problems brilliantly, repair what needs to be done, but don?t ?push? to have unnecessary work done. They can take you home so you don?t have to wait there. All work on my 2003 Saturn Vue has been done by AutoWise and my old SUV runs well! Estimates on work are accurate and work is done in a timely manner. Because it is a family business, clients are always treated with courtesy and warmth. I highly recommend AutoWise and wouldn?t go anywhere else!
Good people and great service. My wife and I have been bringing our cars here for years. Mike and Laurie are a pleasure to deal with.
