How to Maintain Your Car in Pristine Condition with Regular Maintenance and Tune-Ups

May 13, 2024

Most average vehicle owners know about the importance of regular oil changes, tire rotations, and wheel alignments, but did you know that there are actually a multitude of regular maintenance points at different mileage markers? From general overall tuneups to replacements and repairs, your vehicle needs more than just the basic services to function! Think of these regular vehicle check-up appointments to be as important as your personal annual physicals or regular check-ups to maintain your health. Just like a human body as it ages, your vehicle will need additional care, maintenance, and assistance as it ages, too. Certain parts will need replacing or repairing as they are worn and age.

Even with impeccable maintenance regiments, things still happen, but staying on top of regular maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations will help you stay ahead of the game on larger repairs. Mileage markers are an approximation, and your vehicle’s needs may vary based on factors such as weather and environmental conditions, driving styles and habits, hybrid or electric versus conventional fuel vehicles, previous ownership maintenance, and overall age of the vehicle. Still, having a solid idea of what repairs or replacements or service appointments are expected may help you better budget and allot funds ahead of time so you’re prepared for these upcoming expenses. And who doesn’t like to save a little money? Exactly!

Let’s take a look at some of the expected mileage markers for routine maintenance and parts replacement on your car

Every 3,000-6,000 miles you should be scheduling a regular oil and filter change. Check your vehicle’s manufacturer guide for specific mileage requirements and type of oil – synthetic or regular. Older models may need closer to the 3k mark. Hybrids may be able to go towards the higher end of that range. Most mechanics will also recommend a tire rotation and/or wheel alignment with your oil changes
Schedule a maintenance appointment at the 10,000 mile mark. This initial service will often include tire rotation, air filter, oil change and parts.
Older non-electronic ignition systems vehicles should be serviced either 10,000-12,000 miles or annually (whichever comes first!) and those with newer fuel injection systems and electronic ignitions can go 25,000+ between major tune-ups; check with your trusted mechanic or service department for guidelines, and consult your vehicle manufacturer handbook.
Every 10,000 miles you should have your tires rotated and vehicle aligned, if you haven’t been doing so regularly.
At 30,000 miles, vehicles should have a full tune-up service including coolant, power steering, hoses and belts checked/replaced, and an engine checkup.
At 50,000 miles a service maintenance appointment may include checking the following: Shocks and struts (suspension system), replace brake pads, new fuel filter, exhaust system inspection, automatic transmission tune-up and service.
50,000-70,000 miles a service technician should thoroughly inspect all of the belts, valves, and hoses, and generally recommends installing replacement tires. (Always replace your tires at least 2 at a time for safety!
Around 60,000-70,000 miles you’ll need to have your fuel pump and water pump examined for cracks, wear, and tear and especially so if you notice any buzzing noises or your vehicle seems to stall frequently.
Car Batteries last roughly about 80,000 miles on average. Bring your vehicle into your local mechanic or auto parts store to have your battery tested. You notice you need to frequently jump your car, there’s a lot of erosion or leaking fluids, then you’ll want to have that swapped out ASAP before your car breaks down.
The spark plugs should be replaced between 80,000-100,000 miles.
90,000 miles is time to have another full engine tune-up and thorough overall inspection of your vehicle to ensure there are no signs of significant wear and tear, damaged or worn hoses, leaks, or other issues.
At 100,000 miles, you’ll need to have a bumper-to-bumper inspection of your vehicle including engine, transmission, water pump, timing belt, etc. You’ll need to switch to high-mileage coolants and spark plugs, too.
At 125,000 miles, the O2 sensors will likely need replacements, as well as the AC/Heating will need service, and flushing and replacing the coolant, replacing the fuel filter, checking and flushing the brake fluid, and shocks and struts, as well as wheel alignment,
For high mileage vehicles 180,000-250,000 miles, you’ll want to check the axles, drive shafts, airflow sensor, belts and timing chain, power steering, chassis, fuel injectors, etc. It will need a thorough inspection from bumper to bumper and may require more frequent service maintenance for a smooth ride.
If and when your vehicle hits the 250,000+ mileage marker, give yourself a pat on the back for a job well done! Your mechanic can tell you what to look for with each particular make and model for extremely high-mileage vehicles, but it’s safe to say you should begin budgeting for your next pre-owned, new, or leased vehicle. It’s also a good idea to be prepared with a little extra cash on hand for more frequent and unplanned repairs on your “senior” vehicle until you acquire your new vehicle.