Wondering What Does Car Maintenance Include?

With today’s challenging economy, many drivers want to keep their current vehicles for as long as possible while also avoiding costly repairs. How can you do that, you ask? Simply stated, follow the schedule of vehicle maintenance listed in your owner’s manual. But you may be wondering, just what does car maintenance include? Take note of the basic service items below:

1. Change the oil and filter—about every 3,000 to 7,000 miles, or every three to five months, depending on your driving conditions and the type of oil you use.
2. Tune-up—Make sure the spark plugs, filters, and hoses are clean and intact. Older vehicles with non-electronic ignitions should have a tune-up about every 10,000-20,000 miles. Newer vehicles only need tune-ups from anywhere between 30,000-100,000 miles, depending on their power and performance.
3. Air filter—Replace about every 15,000 to 20,000 miles.
4. Timing belt—Replace about every four or five years or about every 60,000 to 100,000 miles.
5. Fuel system—Add a fuel system additive or cleaner to the fuel tank about every 3,000 to 7,000 miles to improve engine performance.
6. Lights—Replace any broken or burned-out light bulbs and make sure the lenses are clear.
7. Tires—Check air pressure frequently, rotate about every 6,000 miles, and maintain the correct wheel alignment and tire balance.
8. Brakes—Have the brakes inspected about every 5,000 to 7,000 miles, replacing pads and rotors as necessary. A flush of the brake lines and replacing the brake fluid should be done about every two years.
9. Radiator—Inspect it periodically for leaks, blockages, contamination, and corrosion or oxidation problems. A flush of the radiator may be recommended every three years or 50,000 to 60,000 miles.
10. Steering—A power steering system flush is recommended at least every 30,000 miles.
11. Transmission—For manuals, replace transmission fluid at least every 20,000 miles. On automatics, the fluid and filter should be replaced about every 60,000 miles.

Remember: The dollars and time spent on keeping up with the vehicle maintenance schedule will result in fewer visits to your auto shop for costly repairs while giving you confidence in your vehicle knowing it is safe and reliable.

So how can you find out what does car maintenance include? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Cannon Auto Repair today for more information about the recommended vehicle maintenance and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Cannon Falls, MN, and the surrounding areas.