Maintenance By the Mile

Consumer Reports says the average life expectancy of a newly bought vehicle is around 8 years or 150,000 miles. Of course, vehicles can go 15 years and 300,000, if properly maintained.

Routine car maintenance is required to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Proper maintenance will keep your car on the road longer, as well as save you money from those pesky repair costs.

Here is a maintenance checklist based on car mileage. Always be sure to consult your vehicle owner’s manual for your specific service requirements first.

Once A Month

• Routinely check your tires to see if they are properly inflated. This will lead to a smoother ride and better gas milage.

Every 3,000-7,500 Miles

• Oil Change

• It is recommended that the oil and oil filter be changed around every 3,000-7,500 miles. However, this depends on the recommended maintenance schedule given for your specific vehicle, as some vehicles can go 10,000 miles without an oil change.

• Further Inspection

• Inspection of the transmission fluid level, coolant, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid and wipers, tires and all exterior lights is also encouraged.

Every 15,000 to 30,000 Miles

• Air Filter

• It is suggested that you replace the air filter every 15,000 miles. A clean air filter results in improved gas mileage, increased engine life, lower emissions and overall improved engine performance.

• Battery and Coolant

• After every 20,000 miles, you should check out your car battery and coolant.

• Fuel Filter

• At 25,000 miles, it is recommended that you replace the fuel filter. A fuel filter is responsible for filtering out dirt and rust particles from your fuel.

• Power Steering Fluid

• Once your vehicle reaches 30,000 miles, you should flush the power steering fluid. Although not listed as routine maintenance in a car’s owner’s manual, it is important to replace the power steering fluid because it will break down over time. A power steering leak can lead an expensive repair cost.

Every 35,000-45,000 Miles

• Car Battery

• It is very important  to inspect and replace your battery every 35,000 miles.

• Spark Plugs

• Every 40,000 miles, it is time to replace the spark plugs and spark plug wires.

Every 60,000 Miles

• Belts and Valves

• In addition to the items included in the 30,000-mile service, at 60,000 miles you’ll want to replace all the belts, valves, and hoses that are wearing thin.