General Vehicle Maintenance Schedule

Owning a vehicle makes life so much simpler, until something goes wrong. There are many systems and components that require regular maintenance to ensure they are working optimally, because just one thing going wrong with your vehicle can cause all sorts of problems.

It’s easy to lose track of when things need to be replaced. Most oil change shops will give you a sticker to suggest a date for your next oil change, but most other maintenance and replacement needs don’t come with reminders. Be sure to consult your automobile’s owner’s manual about recommended maintenance schedules, and you may want to keep track of when you rotate your tires or replace your air filters, battery or brakes on a calendar or planner of some sort.

While each vehicle is different, most suggested maintenance plans will likely look something like the following recommendations.

Should Be Checked Every Three Months / 3,000 Miles

  • Automatic Transmission Fluid
  • Battery and Cables
  • Belts
  • Dashboard Indicator Lights
  • Engine Air Filter
  • Engine Oil
  • Exhaust
  • Hoses
  • Lights
  • Power Steering Fluid
  • Tire Inflation/Condition
  • Windshield Washer Fluid

Should Be Checked Every Six Months / 6,000 Miles

All of the Above, Plus:

  • Chassis Lubrication
  • Wiper Blades

Should Be Checked Every 12 Months / 12,000 Miles

All of the Above, Plus:

  • Cabin Air Filter
  • Coolant (Antifreeze)
  • Steering and Suspension
  • Wheel Alignment

Air Filters

Air filters should be replaced between 15,000 and 30,000 miles for most vehicles. If you often drive on unpaved roads you should have it changed more often. If you rarely drive your vehicle, the air filter should be replaced at least every three years as it becomes brittle with age.1

Oil Changes

Previous information suggested that oil changes should take place every 3,000 miles, but that is no longer necessary with modern vehicles and synthetic oils. Most professionals will, in private at least, concede that on newer vehicles the oil often doesn’t need to be changed more than every 7,500 miles. Some vehicles, when using synthetic oil can safely drive 10,000 miles without requiring an oil change.2

Tire Rotations

A good rule of thumb is to have your tires rotated when you get your oil changed, about every six months or 7,500 miles.3

Auto Repair in Rocklin

Five Star Auto Care is your local Rocklin neighborhood mechanic and performs many auto maintenance services including:

  • Lube, Oil and Filter Service
  • Basic Brake Service
  • Auto Transmission Service (Pan/Flush)
  • Minor Tune Up – 4 Cylinder
  • Engine Diagnostic
  • Manual Transmission Service
  • Differential Service
  • Air Conditioning Service
  • Cooling System
  • And Much More

Most services include a complimentary premium hand car wash. Schedule an appointment with Five Star Auto Care today.

1http://www.testingautos.com/how-often-should-an-air-filter-be-changed

2https://www.cars.com/articles/2013/04/do-you-really-need-to-change-your-oil-every-3000-miles/

3https://www.cars.com/articles/2013/05/how-often-should-you-rotate-your-tires/

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