For every car on the road, the manufacturer has a set maintenance schedule it advises for the longevity and performance of your vehicle. Known as “Factory Scheduled Maintenance” or “30/60/90K Maintenance,” many car owners think of it as optional, but that’s a costly mistake in Crestview, FL.
At Main Street Automotive, we want you to know which key scheduled dealer maintenance intervals you should have performed. Neglecting to have them done could lead to damage to your car which will cost much more than preventative maintenance that keeps your car in tip-top shape.
– Regular Car Maintenance
Changing the oil and oil filter in proper intervals is important, even when your car is brand new. Because most cars run on synthetic oils, it generally lasts around 5,000 miles, depending on your driving habits. Tire rotation and balancing are also part of routine maintenance, though they don’t need to be performed as often.
– Before 30,000 Miles
In addition to changing the oil, during this checkup for your car, changing the air filter and replacing the fuel filter are important milestones. A pressure test can help determine whether or not the mechanic should replace these filters.
– Before 60,000 Miles
Among some common checks added on to your regular maintenance, you’ll want to have the battery checked out and likely replaced. Most of them last 4 or 5 years, or 50,000 to 60,000 miles. Brakes also require special attention at this time. Brake fluid, brake pads, and brake rotors likely need a look and possibly replacing. Coolant and transmission fluid levels should be checked and cleared out if necessary to keep them clean.
– Before 90,000 Miles
When your car has been on the road this many miles, checking the hoses, timing belt, and spark plugs is critical. Power steering fluid will need to be flushed and replaced somewhere around 75,000 miles.
Keep in mind that the services you will need and when you need them depending on the type of vehicle you drive and how you drive it. FOr example, what a Ford, Chevy, Jeep, Honda, Toyota, or Nissan requires is different. When you have your routine maintenance checks done, every mechanic will check major points on your vehicle to catch any problems before they arise.
If you have a new car under warranty, don’t think that you must go to the dealership to get your service. All that’s required to keep your warranty intact is keeping your service records of having these scheduled maintenances completed. You can have them done anywhere.
In fact, it’s best to avoid going to the dealership. With high markups and long wait times, you’ll be wasting a lot of time and money. Dealerships love to make it seem like they must do the maintenance, but you are free to see any certified auto mechanic for your repairs and maintenance.
To keep your car in the best running condition for as long as you own it, bring it to us at Main Street Automotive in Crestview, FL, and avoid the outrageous dealer fees!
