The main thing to keep your car running smoothly and safely is to maintain regular car maintenance. However, how frequently should car servicing be done? This all depends on your car's make, model, driving habits, and the manufacturer's recommendations.
In this guide, we help you understand everything about car care services, in particular, service intervals, warning signs, and tips from our experts to help you prevent expenses on repair.
Why Regular Car Maintenance is Important
A lot of car owners don't bother with routine servicing as they don't think it's necessary. Regular maintenance, however, has its share of benefits as well:
Extends Your Car's Life – Routine servicing extends your car’s life as well.
Prevents Costly Repairs – Addressing minor issues early on prevents the inconvenience and cost of very large and very expensive repairs later on.
Improves Safety – A well-maintained car ensures that it will not break down at an unexpected time.
Boosts Fuel Efficiency – Regular oil changes and tire checks help to save on gas.
Maintains Resale Value – A car with a complete service history will fetch higher than a car without one when it is put for sale again.
Next, we will focus on when you should be servicing my car.
How Often Should You Service Your Car?
However, the owner's manual from the car manufacturers will provide a maintenance schedule. Nevertheless, there is a general steering guideline for servicing the auto per mileage or time.
Every 3,000–5,000 Miles (or Every 3–6 Months)
Oil and oil filter change
Tire pressure and tread check
Coolant, brake, transmission, power steering fluid level check
Battery inspection
Every 10,000–15,000 Miles (or Once a Year)
Air filter replacement
Brake system inspection
Wheel alignment and balancing
Cabin air filter change
Every 30,000 Miles (or Every 2–3 Years)
Transmission fluid replacement
Spark plug check and replacement (if needed)
Fuel system cleaning
Annual Maintenance Checklist
Full car inspection
Battery health check
Wheel alignment and rotation
Brake fluid replacement
Follow Your Manufacturer’s Recommendations
The exact service intervals are always present in your owner's manual, but every car is different. Newer cars also have a maintenance manager who warns you that service is due.
Signs Your Car Needs Immediate Service
No matter how you take car care services, there are certain signs your car needs immediate help:
Dashboard Warning Lights: If any of the check engine, oil pressure, or battery light comes on your dashboard warning, do not ignore them.
Strange Noises: Squealing brakes, knocking sounds, or grinding noises are strange noises that might indicate a problem.
Decreased Fuel Efficiency: Your car is using more gas than usual and needs servicing.
Steering or Braking Issues: Low Fluid Levels or Worn-Out Parts may cause Steering or Braking Issues.
Burning Smell or Smoke: If you detect any kind of unusual hood odors or smoke, pull over and get help right away.
Ignoring these signs can prove to be quite expensive or even dangerous.
DIY vs. Professional Car Maintenance
The homeowner can do some simple car maintenance chores, and some need a dedicated professional mechanic.
Maintenance You Can Do at Home:
Recheck, check, and refill fluids (oil, coolant, windshield washer fluid).
Check and fill tires to the right pressure.
Replace windshield wipers.
Test and clean battery terminals.
Maintenance Best Left to Professionals:
Engine diagnostics and repairs.
Brake system servicing, fluid replacement.
Transmission and suspension issues.
Air conditioning repairs.
Whenever you use your car for major services, it would be best to always take it to a certified mechanic, like JM Car Care, to make sure it's in the hands of the experts.
Final Thoughts – Keep Your Car Running Smoothly
The way to keep your car safe, reliable, and efficient is through routine maintenance of the car. The regularity of a service schedule is important because sticking to one reduces the likelihood of failing from an unforeseen breakdown.
Don’t wait if your car is due for servicing. Visit JM Car Care and make an appointment for auto car repair today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Servicing
How often should I service a new car?
The manufacturer's schedule calls for normal cars to get serviced at least once every 5,000 to 10,000 miles.
Do I need more frequent servicing if I drive in extreme conditions?
Yes! The more you drive in a hot climate or heavy traffic or other rough roads, the more often you'd have to change your oil and more frequently check the condition of your tires.
What happens if I skip an oil change?
Depending on your vehicle and the type of vehicle oil, skipping an oil change can result in significant damage and may lead you to pour more gas than you need.
Should I follow the dealership’s maintenance plan?
It depends. Dealership service plans sound good, but most of the time, you can find expert servicing at local auto shops (a highly trusted one like JM Car Care) at a lower cost.
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