Proper maintenance can significantly extend the life of your automobile. If the vehicle is serviced outside of the dealership, keep receipts for service in case you need to demonstrate that you have properly maintained the vehicle, should a warranty issue arise. Also, keep a log of maintenance; it’s important for your knowledge, as well as for potential buyers if you decide to sell your car.
Manufacturer’s recommendations may vary, and these timetables are based on average use, but here are some general recommendations to help keep your car running optimally.
Weekly
Here are some routine inspections to perform every time you fill your tank. It’s also wise to wash your car once a week.
- Antifreeze and coolant
- Oil level and condition
- Windshield wiper fluid
- Tire pressure
Monthly
In addition to the weekly routine, do these inspections—or have a professional do them for you—once a month.
- Brake fluid
- Power steering fluid
- Transmission fluid
- Windshield wiper blades
Quarterly
Perform these inspections and activities every 3 months. Automotive professionals can usually make quick work of this list, so if you have neither the experience and comfort level nor the time to get it done properly, have the pros do these for you.
- Change the oil and replace the oil filter every 3 months or 3,000 miles, whichever comes first
- Check battery level
- Inspect CV-joint boots
- Check condition and tightness of belts and hoses
- Replace air filter
- Test lights and turn signals
Semi-Annually
At the 6-month mark, perform these activities and inspections as well. Again, unless you have a fully-outfitted automotive garage, it’s probably easier and much faster to have the professionals do the work for you.
- Rotate the tires
- Examine muffler for loose clamps or rust
- Inspect brakes and wheel bearings
- Adjust valves
- Test temperature for engine thermostat
- Look for leaks
- Check steering for looseness
- Inspect suspension system
- Asses motor mounts
- Wax the car
Annually
Once a year, tick these remaining items off your list, and consult with a service professional to help identify any other potential issues that might affect you and your particular vehicle.
- Have an emissions test
- Test heating system, and front and rear defrosters
- Replace wiper blades
- Check sparkplugs, points, cap, and rotor
- Have a thorough professional inspection and tune-up
Get a free subscription to Homeminders’ home management system (no credit card required)