Preventative Car Maintenance – Scheduled Maintenance
An automobile is said to be an investment. But the moment that it is driven off of the sales lot, the one thing you can be sure of is that there will eventually be wear and tear on your car. To keep a vehicle as a good investment, you have to make sure that it lasts longer. You can do so by performing preventative maintenance. Consulting your owner’s manual will tell you which parts should be replaced and when. In most manuals look under Car Maintenance – Changing the oil.
Although auto parts are made to last a long time, these components can have a shorter life than advertised if the car isn’t used in the proper manner or affected by other faculty components before serious damage is done. For example, the brake rotors may be properly installed but if the brake pads, which are in contact with the rotors, are worn beyond their limit, they could damage the rotors.
Below are suggested car maintenance schedules. Consult the owner’s manual of your vehicle for your specific maintenance schedule. At AutoTec we have access to all of the recommended preventative maintenance for the cars that we service so if you have misplaced your manual, we have you covered.
If you don’t drive too much you can get your car maintained in the summer and winter. Otherwise it’s best to do maintenance at the following times (or when specified by your owner’s manual):
Hot weather creates extreme conditions for vehicles. The increased temperature can cause fluids and oil lubricants to break down. This could cause decreased performance, engine seizing and possibly permanent damage to your car’s engine. In the late spring, after all danger of unexpected winter storms has passed, is the best time to get your car ready for summer heat. The following is a suggested list of items to check in preparation for summer travel.
Air Conditioning
Your system is in good working condition
Refrigerants are fully charged
Antifreeze
Check coolant levels
Hoses are in good condition, not soft or brittle
Battery
Battery load has been tested for weakness
Be sure the battery is at proper operating levels
Battery terminals are clean, in good condition and cables are secure
Emergency Kit
Summer Emergency Kit is assembled and in the car
Exhaust
Exhaust system is free of leaks and/or holes
Lights
Brake lights are in good working order
Headlights are in good working order
Reverse lights are in good working order
Oil
An oil change has been done within the last 3,000 miles
Tires
Check air pressure for proper inflation, including spare
In extreme cold, your vehicle needs extra care to help it start and keep going through hard weather conditions. In the bay area we don’t have harsh winters but if you plan to go up to Tahoe, for example, than a good winter maintenance checkup is an excellent idea. Autumn is the perfect time to get your car ready for winter driving. Below is a basic list of how to prepare your vehicle for winter. Also, make sure to check your owner’s manual for any other manufacturer’s recommendations.
Antifreeze
Check coolant levels
Hoses are in good condition, not soft or brittle
Battery
Battery load has been tested for weakness
Be sure the battery is at proper operating levels
Battery terminals are clean, in good condition and cables are secure.
Brakes
Brake fluid is at proper levels
Inspect brake pads for wear
Rotors are in good condition
Winter Emergency Kit is assembled and in the car
Heater & Defroster in good working order
Lights
Brake lights are in good working order
Headlights are in good working order
Reverse lights are in good working order
Oil change has been done within the last 3,000 miles
Tires
Check air pressure for proper inflation, including spare
At 3,000 miles it’s important to take your vehicle to have your oil changed as well as your tire treads and air pressure checked. These very basic but very important steps are the cornerstone of good vehicle maintenance. Always refer to your owner’s manual for recommended maintenance intervals.
At 15,000 miles engine parts and accessories begin to show wear and tear. Having your vehicle thoroughly inspected and checked before problems get serious. It’s also important to get the standard oil change as well as tire tread and air pressure checks. Always refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for recommended maintenance intervals.
Change engine oil & filter (up to 5 quarts)
Check under-hood fluid levels
Check wiper blades
Check tread depth on all four tires
Adjust tire pressure to manufacturer’s specs
Check alignment
Lubricate transmission control linkage
Inspect CV joint boots
Inspect fuel system connections, hoses and lines
Lubricate steering and suspension components
Complete tire rotation
Evaluate brake condition
Inspect cabin air filter (not applicable to some vehicles)
At 30,000 miles, engine parts and accessories begin to show wear and tear. Having your vehicle thoroughly inspected can help stop potential problems before they get serious. It’s also important to get the standard oil change as well as tire tread and air pressure checks. Always refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual and recommended maintenance intervals.
At 45,000 miles, it’s important to keep to your scheduled maintenance. Depending on how often you drive your vehicle and under what conditions, taking your vehicle in for maintenance helps ensure that you have a properly running, reliable car every time you need it. Always refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for recommended maintenance intervals.
Change engine oil & filter (up to 5 quarts)
Check under-hood fluid levels
Check wiper blades
Check tread depth on all four tires
Adjust tire pressure to manufacturer’s specs
Check alignment
Lubricate transmission control linkage
Inspect CV joint boots
Inspect fuel system and suspension components
Complete tire rotation
Evaluate brake condition
Inspect cabin air filter (where applicable, most vehicles)
Whether you plan to keep your car for another 60,000 miles or want to trade it in, maintaining your vehicle at regularly scheduled intervals not only keeps it running but helps you retain its value, as well. Always refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for a recommended maintenance program.
Change engine oil & filters (up to 5 quarts)
Check under-hood fluid levels
Check wiper blades
Check tread depth on all four tires
Adjust tire pressure to manufacturer’s specs
Check alignment
Inspect rotors, linings, pads, drums
Lubricate caliper slide rails
Inspect brake lines and hoses
Complete transmission fluid flush
Lubricate transmission control linkage
Inspect CV joint boots
Inspect drive belt
Inspect exhaust system
Inspect fuel system connections, hoses and lines
Replace engine air filter (most vehicles)
Inspect spark plugs
Lubricate steering and suspension components
Change engine coolant (except extended life antifreeze)
Replace cabin air filter (where applicable, most vehicles)
Fuel Injection Maintenance
Refer to your owner’s manual for additional maintenance schedules.