Preventive Maintenance
Motorist Tips | Service Interval Schedule | Know Your Rights
Service Interval ScheduleVehicle System or Component |
Check Monthly |
Check Every 3,000 Miles |
Service Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Automatic Transmission Fluid |  |
Check level with engine running and transmission in park. If low, add type of ATF specified in owners' manual and/or on dipstick. For best results change every two years or 24,000 miles | |
| Battery and Cables | |
Battery should be securely mounted. Battery connections should be clean, tight and corrosion-free. If your car's battery is three years old or more, it should be replaced | |
| Belts | |
Check for looseness, cracks or glazing. Replace V-belts every four years/36,000 miles. Replace serpentine belts every four years/50,000 miles, or sooner if needed. Replace belt per interval specified in owner's manual. Typically, this is at 60,000 miles. Not replacing the belt as required could cause a breakdown or serious engine damage | |
| Brakes and Brake Fluid | |
For best results, have the entire brake system - including brake linings - inspected at every other oil change. | |
| Cabin Air Filter | Replace annually, more often in areas with heavy airborn containments | ||
| Chassis Lubrication | |
Many newer cars are lubed-for-life, some still require this service. Replacement steering and suspension components require periodic lubrication. | |
| Check Engine Light On | |
If light comes on while driving or remains on, your engine may have an emissions or sensor problem and should be checked by a professional technician. If light flashes, the condition is more severe and must be checked immediately to prevent catalytic converter damage. | |
| Coolant (Antifreeze) | |
Check level at reservoir. Do not open hot radiator cap. If low, add 50/50 mix of approved antifreeze and distilled water. | |
| Engine Air Filter | |
Replace yearly, or when dirty. Inspect annually, more often if driving and road conditions dictate. | |
| Engine Oil and Filter | |
|
Check level with engine off at every fill up. Change oil and filter every 3,000 miles or 3 months. Use specified oil grade and weight. |
| Exhaust | |
Inspect for leaks, damage and broken supports or hangers if there is an unusual noise. If you suspect a problem, have it inspected immediately by a professional technician. | |
| Fuel Filter | |
On carbureted cars, replace the filter once a year. On cars with fuel injection, replace the filter every two years or 24,000 miles. | |
| Hoses | |
Inspect for leaks, cracks or bulges, sponginess, brittleness and swelling. Replace hoses at lease every four years. | |
| Lights | |
Replace bulb immediately if light is out. | |
| Power Steering Fluid | |
Check the fluid with the car warmed up. Add approved type if low. If regular topping off is required, have system inspected for leaks. | |
| Shock Absorbers and Struts | |
Inspect for leaks, damage and loose mounting hardware. Replace if worn, damaged or leaking. Have checked by a professional at lease once a year. | |
| Tire Inflation and Condition | |
Inflate tires to recommended pressure. Replace tires if worn or damaged. Remember to check the spare. Check pressure of all tires including the spare. Check tread for wear and for cuts or bruised along the sidewalls. | |
| Windshield Washer Fluid | |
Check level every other fill up. Some vehicles have two reservoirs. Do not use water. Use washer fluid only. | |
| Wiper Blades | |
Replace when streaking or chattering. |