In order to keep your warranty in full effect, you may be required to have certain services performed as prescribed in your owner’s manual or as required in the warranty. Typical Manufacturer recommended maintenance might include oil changes, filter changes, inspections of hoses, belts, brakes, exhaust, etc.
Maintaining Your Vehicle: What to check and when
Needs Frequent Checks
- Dashboard lights
- Head lights/Tail lights
- Tires, Inflation and Condition
- Windshield Washer Fluid
- Engine Oil Level
Every Three Months or 3,000 Miles
- Automatic Transmission Fluid
- Battery and Cables
- Belts
- Engine Air Filter
- Engine Oil
- Exhaust
- Hoses
- Lights
- Power Steering Fluid
- Tire Inflation and Condition
Every Six Months or 6,000 Miles
In addition to all the above
- Chassis Lubrication
- Lights
- Wiper Blades
Every Twelve Months or 12,000 Miles
In addition to all the above
- Brakes
- Cabin Air Filter
- Coolant (antifreeze)
- Steering and Suspension
- Wheel Alignment
This schedule is for the majority of drivers and vehicles. However, always consult your owners manual for specific recommendations from your vehicle manufacturer.
Who can perform my Manufacturer Recommended Maintenance?
In most cases your non-warranty maintenance can be performed by either a dealership or your own mechanic. (Double-check your warranty to be sure!) Many independent repair shops can perform these services at costs that are very competitive with dealerships. They have access to the same information that franchised dealers have about model-specific problems and they may be familiar with less expensive aftermarket parts that perform just as well or even better than manufacturer parts. The Magnusen-Moss Act of 1975 prohibits new car dealers from implying or denying warranty service because routine scheduled maintenance was performed at an independent repair facility. (Magnusen-Moss Act (1975) Title 15 Chapter 50-Section 2301-2312
Use Maintenance to Establish a Relationship
The shop you use for your maintenance should be the same one you will want to do your major repairs. So be sure you choose the right shop for you. One you can trust to never take advantage of you, one that always performs to the highest quality standard, one that respects you and will never "scare you" into a repair, one that will take the time to explain anything you need clarification and understanding with. This allows you to establish a relationship with the mechanic and the mechanic to become familiar with your vehicle and its history. This will be very helpful when you are in need of a major repair.