There's nothing like hitting the open road without a care in the world. Still, cars are sophisticated pieces of machinery with numerous moving parts and a variety of consumables that wear out over time. Ignoring your vehicle's needs for too long will inevitably lead to reduced performance, poor gas mileage, and costly breakdowns.
Routine service visits at regular mileage intervals are among the best ways to avoid these problems, but do you know what you need to do to keep up with your car's needs? It's time to make a list of your car's basic requirements so you can keep enjoying carefree drives instead of frustrating roadside breakdowns.
What Goes On the List?
"Just change the oil and don't worry about it!"
If you've ever heard that advice, you might think modern vehicles don't require much in the way of regular maintenance. While newer cars are drastically more reliable than their older counterparts, they still need more than occasional oil changes. Some requirements will change depending on the type of vehicle you drive, but most vehicles will require a few basics.
In addition to routine oil changes, you'll most likely also need to flush and replace your coolant at regular intervals. Coolant can accumulate small particulate deposits (including rust or scale buildup) over time, and regular flushes help remove these contaminants. You'll also need to check and bleed your brake fluid every few years, replacing it when it looks too contaminated.
Air filters are another easy-to-overlook item. Your air filter prevents large debris from entering your car's engine, but it can become clogged over time. Just as with the filter in your HVAC system, a clogged air filter will reduce airflow, ultimately resulting in poor engine performance. Depending on your driving conditions, you may need to replace your filter more often.
When Do You Need to Perform Each Item?
It's not enough to just make a list – you need to know when it's time to tick those boxes! There are two relatively easy ways to figure out when you should perform vital maintenance on your vehicle:
- Follow your owner's manual recommendations
- Talk to a local mechanic
The best option for you will depend on the age of your car. If you're still under warranty, it's a good idea to stick to your manual's recommendations. You can also err on the side of caution by using your manual's "severe" maintenance schedule, which typically includes more frequent service visits for the essential items listed above.
Speaking with a local mechanic for older, out-of-warranty vehicles is a better idea. Local shops will have seen more high-mileage cars, and they'll have a better idea of how frequently you should service yours. Following their advice for car mileage interval service is an excellent way to ensure your car lasts well beyond its new car warranty period.
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