Check Monthly

Check every 3 months/3,000 miles

Check every 6 months/6,000 miles

Check every 9 months/9,000 miles

Check every 12 months/12,000 miles

Automatic Transmission Fluid

Check fluid level with engine running and

transmission in park. If low, add the type

of automatic transmission fluid specified

in the owner’s manual and/or on dipstick.

For maximum performance, change every

two years or 24,000 miles, or as directed

in owner’s manual.

Battery and Cables

Battery should be securely mounted.

Battery connection should be clean, tight

and corrosion free. If the battery is three

years old or more, it should be tested and

replaced if necessary.

Belts

Check V-belts and serpentine belts for

looseness and condition. Replace when

cracked, frayed, glazed or showing signs

of excessive wear. Replace timing belt per

interval specified in owner’s manual.

Typically this is 60,000 to 90,000 miles.

Not replacing the belt as required could

cause a breakdown or serious engine

damage.

Brakes

Check the entire brake system every year,

including brake linings, rotors and drums.

Cabin Air Filter

Replace annually, or more often in areas

with heavy airborne contaminants or

whenever heating or cooling efficiency is

reduced.

Chassis Lubrication

Many newer cars are lubed-for-life; some

still require this service. Check owner’s

manual. Replacement steering and

suspension components may require

periodic lubrication.

Check Engine Light On

If light comes on while driving or remains

on, your vehicle may have an emissions or

sensor problem and should be analyzed. If

light flashes, the condition is more severe

and must be checked immediately to

prevent catalytic converter damage.

Cleaning & Polishing

To prevent stripping the vehicle’s wax

finish, use only automotive car wash

products, not dishwashing liquids. Polish

at least twice a year to maintain and

protect the finish.

Coolant (Antifreeze)

Check level at reservoir. Never open a hot

radiator cap. If low, add 50/50 mix of

approved antifreeze and distilled water.

Change coolant annually on most vehicles.

Engine Air Filter

Inspect filter at each oil change. Replace

annually or when leaking, torn, water or

oil soaked, dirty or showing other signs of

wear.

Engine Oil and Filter

Check level with engine off at every fill

up. For maximum engine life, change oil

and filter every three months or 3,000

miles or as directed in your owner’s

manual. Use specified oil grade and weight.

Exhaust

Inspect for leaks, damage and broken

supports or hangers if there is an unusual

noise. Exhaust leaks can be dangerous

and must be corrected without delay.

Fuel Filter

Inspect filter at each oil change. Replace

if restricted or water contaminated or

once a year on cars with carburetors. On

cars with fuel injection, replace filter

every two years or 24,000 miles.

Hoses

Inspect hoses at each oil change and

replace when leaking, brittle, cracked,

rusted, swollen or restricted.

Lights

Replace bulb immediately if light is out.

Check fuses first.

Oxygen Sensor

Replace at interval as recommended in

owner’s manual or when other conditions

dictate, such as failing an emissions test.

Some cars have an oxygen sensor

replacement light that appears when

oxygen sensor replacement is needed.

1996 and newer cars have more than

one oxygen sensor.

Power Steering Fluid

Check the fluid with the car warmed up.

Add correct type of fluid if low. If

frequent topping off is required, inspect

for leaks and replace if contaminated.

Spark Plugs

Typical replacement intervals range

between 30,000 and 100,000 miles,

depending on the vehicle and type of

spark plug. Always consult your owner’s

manual for your specific vehicle.

Steering and Suspension

Inspect system annually, including shock

absorbers, struts and chassis parts, such

as ball joints, tie rod ends and other

related components. Replace if leaks,

damage and loose mounting hardware

are found. Symptoms of worn suspension

include uneven tire wear and excessive

bouncing after bumps.

Tire Inflation and Condition

Check the pressure of all tires, including

the spare, at every oil change. Check the

tread for uneven or irregular wear and

cuts or bruises along the sidewalls.

Inflate tires and maintain at

recommended pressure. Replace tires if

worn or damaged.

Windshield Washer Fluid

Check fluid level monthly. Some vehicles

have two reservoirs. Do not use water.

Use washer fluid only.

Wiper Blades

Replace every six months or when

cracked, cut, torn, streaking or

chattering.