A Vehicle Service Schedule Helps You Save
Keeping up with your car's maintenance schedule is one of the simplest ways to have your vehicle avoid expensive breakdowns. Regular service helps your engine, brakes, suspension, and other systems run smoothly while lowering the risk of sudden breakdowns that could leave you in a bad spot. A little preventative work now can save you big repair bills later.
Many vehicles on the road are overdue for basic maintenance services. Skipping oil changes, tire rotations, or fluid checks might not cause immediate damage, but over time it wears down vital parts and shortens your car's lifespan.
Beyond safety and reliability, proper maintenance can also improve resale value. A well-maintained car with detailed service records is a far more attractive option to buyers and often sells for a higher price than a vehicle with irregular upkeep.
What Is a Maintenance Schedule?
A maintenance schedule is a mileage-based guide that outlines when your car needs routine services like oil changes, fluid checks, and part replacements. Having this information readily available helps you make informed decisions about your vehicle.
A Vehicle Maintenance Schedule for Every Driver
While exact recommendations vary based on your driving habits and vehicle type, most cars follow a pattern of services tied to odometer readings. Here's a general guide of when to expect different maintenance needs:
Every 5,000 miles
- Change the oil and oil filter (if using conventional oil)
- Check and top off fluids (brake, coolant, windshield washer)
- Inspect tires for wear and ensure proper tire pressure
Every 10,000 miles
- Rotate tires to promote even wear
- Replace oil and filter if using synthetic oil
- Inspect the cabin air filter and engine air filter; replace if dirty
Routine Car Maintenance: 30,000-90,000 miles
At 30,000 miles
- Replace engine air filter if not already done
- Inspect fuel system and fuel filter
- Inspect brake pads, hoses, and lines for wear
At 60,000 miles
- Replace spark plugs to keep your engine firing smoothly
- Inspect and potentially replace tires
- Check belts, hoses, and (if applicable) the timing belt - replace as needed to avoid costly damage
At 90,000 miles
- Flush and replace brake fluid
- Inspect and clean battery terminals
- Perform a full mechanical inspection for aging components
Routine Car Maintenance: 100,000 miles and beyond
At 120,000 miles
- Replace O2 sensors and coolant
- Flush the radiator and replace thermostat if needed
- Inspect shocks and struts for wear; replace if driving feels rough
At 180,000 miles
- Replace power steering fluid
- Clean the mass airflow sensor for better fuel efficiency
- Inspect all seals and gaskets, especially around the axles and driveshafts
At 250,000 miles
- Clean or replace fuel injectors to maintain performance
- Inspect the chassis for rust or damage
- Check the catalytic converter and emissions system
Why Should I Follow a Maintenance Schedule?
Following a maintenance schedule ensures that small issues are caught before they turn into expensive repairs. It keeps your car safe to drive, extends the life of major components, and gives you peace of mind on the road.
Where Do I Find My Car's Maintenance Schedule?
The best place to check is your vehicle's owner's manual, which outlines the manufacturer's recommendations for each mileage interval. If you're unsure or can't find your manual, our team at Service Plus Automotive is happy to help.
Just give us a call at 978-957-5050, and we'll guide you on the services your car needs and when to schedule them.
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What People Say About Us
I am a owner of a Buick that is 14 years old . This car has a great running engine, but the brakes and suspension not so good. I brought my car to several automotive centers, Sears being one of them. The money I paid at Sears for just front brakes was outrageous and to add insult to injury they let me drive out with two very bad tires. I had no knowledge they could blow out at anytime. Most of all when they addressed the biggest problem, I said to my
husband maybe we should buy a new car. So through word of mouth my husband was told about Service Plus on Lakeview Ave in Dracut . A friend suggest I go there, because they are very good. When I brought my car to Service Plus, they where very professional. They gave me a free estimate and offered me a free car for the day while they repaired my car. Heck, they even fixed a problem from the work done previously at sears and saved me hundreds of $$$$. I am a big fan of Service Plus now. My car rides so good. I will go to them always in the future. I am grateful that I can count on Service Plus to be honest and do a professional and competent job. You can't say that about to many companies now a days. Bravo and well done.
I have been a customer at Service Plus for over eight years. I have also recommended Service Plus to others over the years. "Service Plus" is the correct name for this automotive center because that is exactly how Steve and Greg and their other workers treat customers...they provide service plus! I have very little knowledge of car problems so I rely on their expertise and honesty and I have never been disappointed. They make the repairs that they say they will make and charge you what they say they will charge you. They complete the work when they say they will and are very helpful for emergency type problems. They are respectful of their customer's time and money and I would highly recommend them to anyone.
Have used them many times over the years. They are all always friendly, professional and honest. I recommend Service Plus to all my friends!
Long-time customer! Always honest, friendly and reasonable. They know how to treat their customers and keep them happy. We recommend Service Plus to all of our friends.
Took my truck there (really old and time for a new one) but they were incredibly nice and very professional and they fixed my truck the very next day. This is hands down the greatest shop in Massachusettes, As im writing this my truck is being looked at by them for another issue. To make a long story short these guys are fantastic and everybody should bring there vehicles there!!!!
I've been going to Service Plus since I started driving, introduced to Steve and Greg by my father who swore by them sine they opened. I refuse to go to any other mechanic because you simply cant beat the kindness and honesty they offer.
