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Routine car maintenance can be difficult to work into hectic schedules and even harder to schedule at the exact right time. A car’s maintenance schedule typically depends on the model, mileage and time spent on the road, and while most manufacturers recommend a 30,000-, 60,000- and 90,000-mile schedule, you may wonder if there’s flexibility within this range or if certain items can be visited at different intervals of time.
In many newer model vehicles, there is built-in technology that alerts drivers to required maintenance and preventive care. For those without this technology built into their car, there are apps and digital logs available that can help you track your vehicle’s maintenance and know what service you should perform when.
Today, we’ll highlight some of the more popular auto maintenance log and scheduling tools that are available, and we’ll discuss some of the general timelines for maintaining the specific features and functions of your vehicle.
If your vehicle is newer, your car maintenance reminders may display on the dash or navigation system to let you know when service is due. The car dashboard symbols or notifications alert you when it’s time for services such as oil changes or tire pressure checks.
Built-in car maintenance reminder systems can be categorized into two effective types currently in use.
1. Simple car maintenance reminder systems tally up the miles you drive. First, you need to set a service reminder based on your driving habits. Check out your car's manual for standards on the right mileage and steps on how to set it up in the system.
2. Advanced reminder systems pay attention to your car's conditions to decide when service is due, eliminating the need to enter a pre-set mileage. Based on your car type and oil, service alerts could pop up between 3,500 to 15,000 miles. Remember, even if you don't get an alert, manufacturers recommend changing oil every year.
If your car's maintenance system needs to be programmed, check the owner’s manual or maintenance guide. You'll need to reset the car's maintenance reminder every time you change the oil. This could mean starting the car and pressing the gas pedal or holding certain buttons on your dashboard in a specific order.
Some cars might need a special tool or scanner to reset the system. Remember, if you do your own car service, some repair shops won't reset your reminder unless they know you've done all the necessary tasks for that service interval.
From free vehicle maintenance log templates and traditional paper logbooks, to vehicle maintenance apps and downloadable maintenance tracking software, there are a number of ways you can keep track of every service performed on your car and document essential upcoming needs.
An assortment of auto maintenance logbooks are available at places like Amazon.com. Whether you’re trying to record and document simple maintenance or manage service expenses, there are logbooks available to help you organize, plan and optimize your vehicle’s maintenance. Some of the books even help you know when to schedule your next appointment.
If you’re a Microsoft Excel aficionado, you may like to set up a spreadsheet template that’s free for download. Here are some we found while doing research: 30 Free Vehicle Maintenance Logs.
Some maintenance apps cost money to download, but if you’re looking for a reliable, free car maintenance app, there are plenty to choose from. Some of our favorites include the FIXD app, the Openbay app and the Simply Auto app. For more information on auto maintenance apps, both free and paid versions, as well as the broader benefits of car maintenance tracker apps, many of these maintenance apps are effective in keeping vehicle owners up-to-date with their ongoing preventative car maintenance.
Keep track of preventive maintenance and repairs for up to five vehicles in your home with downloadable software from Auto Maintenance Pro. For a web-based solution to your maintenance tracking needs, try Motortab; this simple, paper-free log allows you to easily document your car’s services and sends maintenance reminders via email for next service due.
Keeping your car in excellent condition isn't just about addressing problems as they arise; it's about preventing them from happening altogether. Suggested maintenance timelines are designed to help you track what maintenance your car needs and when your car's critical systems need professional attention.
Following these guidelines ensures that your vehicle continues running smoothly and safely while reducing the likelihood of costly repairs in the future. Whether it’s an oil change, brake inspection or timing belt replacement, adhering to a schedule protects both your car and your peace of mind.
3,000- to 5,000-mile maintenance: Expect to change your car’s oil every 3,000 – 5,000 miles (or every three to six months, whichever comes first). Regularly scheduled oil changes help prevent your engine from overheating or seizing and protect metal components from abrasive wear. An oil change also helps with the removal of contaminants, such as dirt and debris.
6,000-mile maintenance: At the 6,000-mile mark, you’ll want to have a tire-alignment service. An alignment ensures that all your tires are positioned in the same direction and prevents suspension components from irregular wear and tear. As a good rule of thumb, alignment should be checked at every other oil change. If you notice that your car is pulling in one direction, you’ll want to have alignment checked and possibly serviced immediately.
30,000-mile maintenance: The first time that factory maintenance services should be performed is at 30,000 miles. Services may vary by vehicle but generally include fluid top-off, a visual inspection of critical components, tire and spark plug inspection, oil level check and cabin air filter replacement.
60,000 mile maintenance: After 30,000 miles, 60,000 is the next suggested interval for factory maintenance services. This is the time when cracks, leaks and even expiration of parts are seen in components such as belts, hoses and tires. It’s not uncommon to need some parts replaced at 60,000 miles.
0-100,00-mile maintenance: A comprehensive inspection of major components is performed once your car reaches 100,000 miles. Your brakes, exhaust system, transmission, fluids, spark plugs, timing belt, air filters, tires and steering components such as ball joints and tie rod ends will likely be examined. This level of service may cost more than the services performed at lower intervals, but with proper upkeep of your vehicle, the odds are in your favor that you won’t blow your budget.
For more information about the ideal maintenance frequency for your vehicle, click here. Remember, AAA Members receive complimentary vehicle maintenance inspections upon request with any paid service at AAA-owned Car Care Center and AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities. Members also receive a 10% discount ($75 max savings) off labor for regular-priced services at AAA Car Care facilities.
Car maintenance
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