How Often Should You Service Your Car?

How often should you get your vehicle serviced?

Keeping your car in top condition doesn’t have to be a mystery. Regular maintenance is key to ensuring smooth performance and avoiding expensive repairs. But how often should you service your car? It depends on your driving habits and vehicle type. Here’s a practical guide to help you stay on track with your car’s maintenance needs.

Regular Maintenance vs. Major Service Intervals

Cars generally require two types of service: regular maintenance and major service. Regular maintenance includes oil changes, fluid checks, and tire rotations, while major service covers more in-depth inspections and replacements.

• Oil Changes and Fluid Checks: Oil changes are one of the most frequent services your car needs. For most vehicles, it’s recommended to change the oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, though some cars can go up to 7,500 miles between oil changes. Along with oil, make sure the car’s other fluids—coolant, transmission, brake, and power steering—are at the right levels. Checking fluids at every oil change keeps your engine cool and helps avoid unexpected breakdowns.
• Tire Rotation and Balancing: Rotating and balancing your tires helps them wear evenly and improves overall handling. It’s generally recommended to rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,000 miles. Regular rotation not only extends the life of your tires but also ensures better traction and safety.

Mileage-Based Maintenance

Some services depend more on mileage than on time. As your car racks up the miles, parts naturally wear down. Here are some key intervals:

• 15,000 to 30,000 Miles: Around 15,000 miles, it’s time to replace your air filter, especially if you drive in dusty or polluted areas. This keeps your engine clean and efficient. At around 30,000 miles, it’s also a good idea to flush and replace brake fluid to maintain safe braking performance.
• 30,000 to 50,000 Miles: At about 30,000 to 50,000 miles, inspect your battery and brake pads. Even if your battery isn’t dead, it may be weakening and could fail at any time. Replacing it around this mileage helps avoid unexpected issues. Brake pads also wear down over time, so inspecting them around this interval can prevent brake damage and costly repairs.
• 60,000 to 90,000 Miles: As you reach the 60,000 to 90,000-mile mark, your car may need more extensive service. This is usually when timing belts, spark plugs, and hoses need replacement. Replacing these parts on schedule keeps your car performing smoothly and prevents engine damage. Skipping these services could lead to expensive repairs later on.

Signs Your Car Needs Immediate Attention

While regular maintenance schedules are helpful, certain signs may mean your car needs attention sooner than expected. Look out for warning lights, unusual noises, or vibrations. If you notice the engine running rough or a decrease in fuel efficiency, it’s a good idea to schedule a service. Addressing issues early can help avoid major repairs and keep your car in top condition.

Trust Certified AutoBrokers Inc. for Your Car’s Maintenance Needs

Regular maintenance is the key to keeping your car running smoothly and avoiding costly repairs. At Certified AutoBrokers Inc., we make vehicle care simple and stress-free. From routine oil changes and wheel alignment to more comprehensive services like timing belt replacements, our skilled team ensures every service is performed with attention to detail. We prioritize quality and customer satisfaction, using the latest tools and techniques to keep all certified cars in peak condition.

Don’t leave your car’s performance to chance. Reach out to us today to schedule your next maintenance service ask about our auto financing solutions!