What is My Car Maintenance Schedule?

Service Technician Working Under Vehicle

Keeping your new or pre-owned vehicle in top condition is naturally a priority. One of the best things you can do to maintain your investment is to follow the recommended car maintenance schedule. So what is your car maintenance schedule and why should you keep up with it? Review the suggested schedule below and contact our service department if it’s time for an oil change, air filter replacement, or other maintenance task. Our certified technicians in Merced are here to keep your vehicle on roads in Merced and Los Banos! 

Standard Recommended Car Maintenance Schedule

What is your car maintenance schedule? Your vehicle’s schedule depends on its make and model as well as how often you drive and in what conditions. However, there is a general car maintenance schedule to work off of and make adjustments to as needed: 

Every 3 months or 3,000 miles:

  • Automatic transmission, power steering, wiper fluid level top-off
  • Engine oil and air filter replacement
  • Belt, exhaust, and hose checks/replacements
  • Interior and exterior light inspections
  • Fuel filter inspection/replacement
  • Tire pressure, tire tread wear and tear check

Every 6 months or 6,000 miles:

  • Car battery and cable inspections
  • Chassis lubrication
  • Windshield wiper inspections/repairs
  • Vehicle polishing

Every 12 months or 12,000 miles:

  • Brake system inspection 
  • Coolant level check/top-off
  • Transmission fluid level check/top-off
  • Steering and suspension inspections

Monthly Car Maintenance

There are numerous things you can do to help your vehicle run smoothly on roads in Atwater and the surrounding areas: 

  • See whether the ‘check engine’ light is on
  • Clean the vehicle interior and exterior
  • Ensure all the interior and exterior lights work
  • Inspect the tire pressure and tread
  • Make sure the windshield wiper fluid level is high

Why Follow a Car Maintenance Schedule?

Think of routine maintenance as preventative care! Keeping up with your vehicle’s car maintenance schedule helps the model run smoothly and efficiently, which saves money on fuel costs. It also reduces the risk of untimely breakdowns and large, expensive repairs, as any small issues are identified and rectified. Following your car maintenance schedule additionally means enjoying a higher resale value if you ever want to sell your vehicle or trade it in. A car, truck, or SUV with a detailed maintenance report is worth more than one without! 

Work With the Service Department at Merced AR 

Does your vehicle need routine maintenance right now to run at the highest level? Call 209-383-4990 ext.1036 or schedule an appointment online today. Our team is here to keep your car in excellent condition! For more maintenance reads, review our fuel-efficient driving tips and learn why tire rotation is so important

 

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Merced AR 37.2954011, -120.4566455.