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What is it?
These are services that the car manufacturer and industry recommend be performed at specific mileage intervals?
Why?
- First, to maintain your warranty.
If your car has a problem down the road, and these recommended services have not been performed, it may affect the car maker's willingness to honor a warranty
- Second, to ensure the safety and reliability of your car.
We know, as does the car maker, that we all live in a busy world. We depend on our car to provide us with safe and reliable transportation, but we do not always have the time or the knowledge to properly maintain our car. These services are recommended to be performed at the correct mileage to keep you safe.
Do I have to return to the dealer for these services?
No! Any reputable auto repair business can perform these services for you. Federal law ensures it. You will find it in your owner's manual. If you have the services performed by an established auto repair business and you keep the records of when these services were performed, the manufacturer cannot deny you warranty on any future claim.
What are these services? Generally, they are as follows:
- Every 3000 - 5000 miles, change your engine oil and filter
- At 15,000 miles and every 15,000 mile interval thereafter:
- Inspect the brakes
- Inspect the steering
- Inspect the suspension
- Inspect the exhaust
- Inspect tire wear
- Inspect lights and wipers
- Inspect motor and transmission and body mounts
- Inspect the fuel system
- Inspect belts and hoses
- Rotate and balance the tires
- Perform an alignment if tire wear warrants
- Check the battery and charging system
- At 30,000 miles, do the 15,000 mile services, plus:
- Change the transmission filter and fluid
- Change the brake fluid
- Power Flush the cooling system and install new antifreeze
- Install a new fuel filter and air filter it they have not been replaced
- Check the air conditioning and heating system operation
- Check and replace the cabin pollen filter (if equipped and needed)
- Install a new PCV valve
- Repair any problems found while doing the standard checks and inspection listed under the 15,000 mile maintenance.
- At 45,000 miles, do the 15,000 mile services
- At 60,000 miles, do the 30,00 mile services, plus:
- Check the timing belt (if equipped) and/or replace it (depending on model)
- Check tune-up items.
- Replace sparkplugs and distributor cap, rotor and sparkplug wires (if equipped)
- Perform a MotorVac fuel injection and intake carbon cleaning
- Repair any problems found while doing the standard checks and inspection listed under the 15,000 mile maintenance.
- At 75,000 miles, do the 15,000 mile services
- At 90,000 miles, repeat the 30,000 mile service, plus:
- Replace the timing belt (if equipped) if it has not been replaced
- Replace the timing belt tensioner, idlers and the waterpump as needed
The 100,000 mile tune-up myth
Truth be told, cars need maintenance!
Cars that don't get routine maintenance breakdown more often and cost more to repair when they do breakdown.
Madison Avenue advertising agencies have spent a lot of money claiming longer and longer times between needed services. Remember two things:
- there is always fine print
- they are in the business of selling cars!
We have been providing top quality service and advice for 48 years.
When you have questions or need advice about your car's needed services, call and talk with Keith,
Jeff or Joe. We'll be happy to take the time to talk with you and provide frank and honest advice!
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