A little routine care helps keep your car running strong. These are rough starting points, not a service schedule for every vehicle. Short trips, towing, and tough conditions can mean more frequent service.
Check your owner's manual for exact intervals.
Oil and filter
For many gasoline cars, oil service is roughly every 5,000–7,500 miles or 6–12 months. Some need it sooner; others allow longer. Follow the manual and oil-life monitor, whichever service limit comes first.
Check the oil level regularly using the method in your manual. Have a qualified mechanic inspect it if the level keeps dropping or an oil warning appears.
Tire pressure and rotation
Check tire pressure monthly and before a long trip, when the tires are cold. Use the pressure on the driver's door label, not the maximum on the tire sidewall.
Rotation is often due around every 5,000–7,000 miles, if your tire setup allows it. Have a qualified mechanic inspect it for uneven wear and handle rotation.
Brakes
Have a qualified mechanic inspect it for brake wear during routine service, often every 6–12 months. Replacement timing depends on wear and how you drive.
New squealing, grinding, a soft pedal, or changes in stopping deserve attention right away. See the warning signs guide for when to stop driving.
Fluids
About monthly, look at accessible coolant, brake fluid, and washer fluid levels as described in your manual. Check coolant only when the engine is cold; never open a hot cooling-system cap.
Coolant, transmission fluid, and brake fluid service intervals vary widely. Use the specified fluids. For low levels, leaks, or fluid service, have a qualified mechanic inspect it.
Wipers
Check how well the wipers clear the glass each month. Blades often need attention every 6–12 months, or sooner if they streak, skip, or leave your view unclear.
If visibility is poor or blades need replacement, have a qualified mechanic inspect it before your next drive in rain.
Battery
Include a battery check in yearly service and before Virginia's winter cold or summer heat. Many 12-volt batteries last roughly 3–5 years, but condition matters more than age alone.
For slow starts or a battery warning, have a qualified mechanic inspect it and test the battery and charging system. Do not handle damaged or leaking batteries.
This guide is general information only and is not a substitute for your vehicle's owner's manual or an inspection by a qualified mechanic. Maintenance needs vary by make, model, and condition. A & F Auto Sales is not responsible for repairs or damage resulting from use of this information.
