Any car owner knows that their vehicle will need various repairs, replacements, and maintenance throughout its life—from regular oil changes to tire rotations to a new battery. However, no car owner likes being inconvenienced by an urgent repair or surprised by the fact that additional maintenance is needed than you thought.
It pays off to anticipate at what point in your car’s lifetime it will likely require certain repairs as well as how frequently it should undergo recurring maintenance. For those residing in or driving through Shakopee, MN, and surrounding areas, car troubles can strike at any moment. We at Kennedy know that being prepared is key to your safety and financial comfort. Whether you want to start saving up for the potential costs or simply be ahead of the game, Kennedy Transmission has compiled a list of car maintenance tasks based on your vehicle’s mileage.
Inspect Fluid Levels (Monthly)
Check coolant and windshield washer fluid levels (as well as the functionality of your wipers). You can easily refill the coolant and windshield fluid reservoirs yourself under the hood, but when it comes to the transmission and power steering fluids, you may want to have your local auto shop change them out.
Check Tire Tread and Pressure (Monthly)
To keep your tires turning safely, regularly inspect their tread to ensure proper traction and their pressures to ensure proper inflation and balance. If you have a tread depth gauge, you should start shopping for new tires when the tread reaches 3/32 of an inch or less. (Or, simply turn to the trusty upside-down-penny trick for a quick idea.) To check your tire pressure, use a tire pressure gauge, firmly press it onto the valve stem, and compare the pressure reading to the recommended tire pressure stated in your vehicle owner’s manual.
Replace Oil and Oil Filter Replacement (3,000–10,000 Miles)
Most auto manufacturers recommend replacing the engine oil and oil filter between 3,000 and 7,000 miles, though newer cars that run on synthetic oil can last up to 10,000. These should be changed regularly not only because the oil level is low but also because tiny bits of debris can end up in the oil, causing excess wear on the engine.
Checklist of Car Maintenance and Repairs by Mileage
The suggestions below are general rules of thumb, and you should always check your vehicle model’s owner’s manual for precise maintenance guidelines and mileage suggestions. In addition, if your car endures more “severe” driving conditions—such as heavy loads, rough roads, short commutes, an extreme climate, stop-and-go traffic, or dust and debris—you might need to consider a more frequent maintenance schedule.
Every 10,000–30,000 Miles
Some vehicle parts and functions to check for between every 10,000 to 30,000 miles include:
- Air filter
- Brake fluid
- Battery connections and corrosion
- Coolant levels
- Headlights and brake lights
- Hoses and clamps
- Tire rotation
Every 30,000–50,000 Miles
Some vehicle parts and functions to get checked out between every 30,000 to 50,000 miles include:
- Battery charge
- Brake pads
- Distributor cap and rotor
- Fuel filter
- PCV valve
- Power steering fluid
- Serpentine (drive) belt
- Shocks
- Spark plugs, wires, and ignition system
- Transmission fluid
Every 50,000–75,000 Miles
Some vehicle parts and functions to get checked out between every 50,000 to 75,000 miles include:
- Brake rotors
- Coolant and cooling system
- Front-end alignment
- Timing belt
Every 75,000–100,000 Miles
Some vehicle parts and functions to get checked out between every 75,000 to 100,000 miles include:
- Axle and gear lubrication
- Oxygen sensors
- U-joints
Add Kennedy Transmission to Your Car Maintenance Checklist
Don’t wait until something goes wrong to think about car maintenance. It’s crucial to make note of your vehicle’s recommended maintenance routine to extend its longevity and save yourself headaches due to unexpected repairs and costs. Keeping in mind some important mileage benchmarks in your car’s lifespan can go a long way—and hopefully keep your car going for longer.
Kennedy Transmission is here to offer advice to drivers and a full range of automotive services to our valued customers in Shakopee, MN, and across the greater Minneapolis area. Schedule your routine vehicle maintenance today, or contact us with any questions.
