Auto Repair Mint Hill; Car Maintenance Service Check List
Auto Repair Mint Hill; Car Maintenance Service Check List
Referring to your owner’s manual is always best when determining what car maintenance is needed on your vehicle. However many car owners who have older cars or bought new used cars may no longer have this information available. A reputable auto repair shop will have access to manufacturers recommended services but if you are wanting a general idea of when to service your car; a check list is provided below.
- Oil Change & Lube Chassis – every 3 months or 3, 000 miles. Some will argue that you can go up to 5,000 miles between oil changes but to be safe somewhere between 3K-5K is your best option. While the oil may still be in good condition due to synthetic blends and better technology, the filters have a useful lifespan and it expires at about 5,000 miles. If you go over that mileage you run the risk of the filter not being able to do it’s job well. This is one of the most inexpensive maintenance items that you can do for your car that will prolong it’s lifespan and performance. Don’t skimp on this.
- Transmission Service/Flush – every 30,000 miles. Many times when you reach this mileage interval you may notice your car shifting roughly as you accelerate. Flushing the fluid and replacing with fresh fluid will clean impurities from the fluid. Sometimes it is recommended to change the gasket at the same time. Your auto repair shop will know what is best for your vehicle.
- Fuel Filter – every 30,000 miles. Some vehicles have 2, others none. Replacing the fuel filter on time can also help you maintain fuel efficiency which is so important with the price of gasoline.
- Timing Belt – every 75,000 miles or 120,000 for some vehicles. If you do not change this at the recommended interval you could be driving on borrowed time. Once a timing belt breaks, you generally cannot drive your vehicle until it is repaired.
- Drive Belts – every 75,000 miles. Ditto on this one.
- Coolant Hoses – every 75,000 miles.
- Flush Engine Coolant – 30,000 miles and add a conditioner. Have your auto repair facility check your coolant seasonally too. Many shops check this when you come in for a routine oil change and will top it off if it is low.
- Brake Inspections – Should be performed every other oil change or at a minimum twice per year.
- Tire Rotation – every 7,500 miles. If you change your oil every 3,000 or so miles, do this every second oil change.
- Brake Fluid Flush – every 30,000 miles or as needed.
- Check Exterior Lights – Every oil change.
Performing routine car maintenance is meant to prolong the life of your vehicle and hopefully avoid major problems that can leave you stuck on the side of the road. Setting up a schedule with a reputable auto repair facility can take the headache out of remembering when to do what and keep you on track.
If you are looking for top quality auto repair in Mint Hill or South Charlotte area, please stop by Manchester Auto and Tire of Mint Hill or give us a call at 704-545-4597.