How often should you do car maintenance?

Car maintenance should usually be performed according to your vehicle’s manufacturer recommendations, but a general guideline is:

1. Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (or every 6 months):

• Oil and filter change
• Tire rotation
• Brake checkup
• Fluid level checks (brake, transmission, coolant, etc.)
• General checkup of lights, wipers, and belts

2. Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles:

• Air filter replacement
• Fuel system inspection
• Inspect and possibly change the battery
• Inspect and change the cabin air filter

3. Every 35,000 to 60,000 miles:

• Change spark plugs
• Transmission fluid change (varies by vehicle)
• Check and possibly change brake pads and rotors

4. Every 60,000 to 100,000 miles:

• Timing belt replacement
• Water pump checkup/replacement (if compulsory)
• Inspect suspension parts (shocks, struts).

Following these maintenance intervals helps ensure your car runs smoothly, stays reliable, and avoids costly breakdowns. Regular checkups can also prolong the life of the vehicle and maintain its value.

Wondering about how often should you do car maintenance? Call our ASE Certified Mechanics at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about our vehicle maintenance and to request an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

What car maintenance needs to be done?

Driving over cold roads can wear on all your car's components, leading to severe problems in the long run. For any vehicle to operate properly, it must have proper vehicle maintenance that is done regularly. As a result, it is important to have all the needed components changed following travel over these types of roads. However, even with regular vehicle maintenance routines carried out consistently and correctly, some cars may still need attention after driving on new or cold roads outside your home country or state. Here, motorists will learn about what car maintenance needs to be done after traveling over cold roads.

1. HVAC System: The air conditioning and heating systems can be used intermittently when a car travels on new or cold roads. When the air conditioning has been turned off, it may need to be recharged. To do this, turn the AC to its maximum setting and allow it to run for about half an hour before turning it off. Car maintenance needs to be done after traveling over cold roads to ensure that your vehicle's HVAC system is working correctly and not causing problems with the vehicle.
2. Wipers & Windshield: Driving over the winter, you can wear the wipers and windshield on a car. If not properly changed out and cleaned, they may become clogged with ice or snow, causing poor visibility. Some cars have windshield wiper fluid hidden away behind the front of the car or on the bottom of the windshield. If a driver must travel far and is unsure if they will find a place to stop, it would be best to inspect their wipers before leaving.
3. Brakes: When a car travels on cold roads, the pressure under the brakes can be reduced because they are exposed to the elements. This is one of the reasons why automobile drivers should always ensure their brakes are in proper working order. Car maintenance needs to be done after traveling over cold roads to ensure that your brake pads are still working well and that the parts underneath them are in good condition.
4. Battery Maintenance: Inspect battery terminals for corrosion, ensure a secure connection, and consider a battery test if your vehicle is over 3 years old.
5. Exhaust System Inspection: Look out for rust, damage, or unusual noises from the exhaust system. A healthy exhaust system is crucial for fuel efficiency and safety.
6. Tire inspections: Regularly check tire pressure; tread depth, and overall condition. Rotate tires according to the manufacturer's recommendation.
7. Regular Oil Changes: This is crucial for the engine's health. Follow manufacturer recommendations for the type of oil and the intervals for changes.

Wondering what car maintenance needs to be done? Call our ASE Certified mechanics at Clausen Automotive for more information about recommended vehicle maintenance and to request an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

How often should you get your car maintenance?

Regular car maintenance will increase your vehicle’s lifespan; keep all vehicle components operational, while enhancing your safety and other road users. Therefore, you should always look forward to scheduling an appointment with your preferred vehicle service station.

Should you service a car that is in perfect working condition?

So, how often should you get your car maintenance? The short answer is yes. Regular vehicle maintenance will save you from breaking your budget, especially when servicing your car after it starts developing problems. Moreover, it will help if you visit your go-to garage or local dealership every 12,000 to 30,000 miles—even if your car is in exceptional condition.

You might want to sell your car in the future when upgrading to a new model, getting a different make, or shifting from gas combustion engines to electric powertrains. Unfortunately, finding lucrative deals for your car will be impossible if the prospective buyer realizes the vehicle has different underlying problems. Meanwhile, you can get a great deal on your car if it undergoes regular maintenance as this will ensure it retains its resale value.

Buying used cars allows numerous first-time and veteran car owners to get their ideal car for a fraction of the cost. Used cars also give environmentally conscious buyers more peace of mind, especially since continued vehicle use prevents them from eventually finding their way in car junkyards.

What to expect during a car maintenance service?

The repair technicians and mechanics at your preferred dealership or service station will assess the condition of your car’s powertrain (engine and transmission), moving components, air and oil filters, wheels and brakes, misalignments, and more. Also, note that these professionals will be on the lookout for any problem that might result in the impairment or malfunction of the car and its components. Lastly, service technicians will advise you on the best vehicle maintenance schedule to ensure your vehicle is in brilliant shape.

Need to know more about how often should you get your car maintenance? Call our ASE Certified Mechanics at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about the vehicle maintenance needed for your vehicle and to request an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

How Often Should You Have Car Maintenance Done?

Whether you have been driving for many years, or just starting out, the vehicle maintenance schedule for today’s vehicle may be confusing.  You may be wondering just how often should you have car maintenance done? The first place to look for the answer is your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s service guidelines.  If you still have questions, ask your mechanic to explain the recommended vehicle maintenance schedule for your specific vehicle—what should be done, when it needs to be done, and how much it will cost.  

What are the benefits of following the vehicle maintenance schedule?  

• You can depend on your vehicle to get you where you want to go comfortably and safely.
• You won’t have to expend hours at an auto shop waiting for repair work to be done.
• You will save money by avoiding major auto repairs.
• The resale value of your car will be higher than if you neglected maintenance.

There are some other items that you can inspect yourself.  Give your vehicle a little extra attention by paying attention to the following:

Daily...

Take a few minutes to walk around your vehicle before heading out each day.  Look for damage to the bodywork, low or flat tires, cuts in the sidewalls, cracks in the windows, or puddles under the car.  Although these problems don’t seem very big, they could cause serious issues while driving down the road.  

Weekly, or as needed...

• Inspect tire pressure, tread depth, and condition of all four tires AND the spare.
• Inspect the level and condition of all fluids, including oil, coolant/antifreeze, brakes, windshield washer, power steering, etc.
• Broken or burned-out bulbs should be changed and lenses cleaned.  
• Check your windshield wiper blades and replace them if more than 6 months old.
• Wash your vehicle often and give it a wax job sometimes to protect the finish and repel water and dirt. 

Taking a little extra time checking your vehicle will provide you with confidence that you have a reliable vehicle.  

How often should you have car maintenance done?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive for more information about vehicle maintenance and to request an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

What Does Car Maintenance Include?

Fall is here with all its splendid colors.  Your car has survived the warm temperatures of summer, but the s temperatures of winter are on their way.  Do you know how to make sure your vehicle is as reliable as possible to prevent breakdowns on an icy snowy day?  Do you want to know what does car maintenance include?  It’s no secret—follow the vehicle maintenance schedule listed in your owner’s manual. 

If you have read your owner’s manual, these car maintenance items may look familiar:

• Every week or month inspect:
• Dashboard Warning Lights
• Lights, exterior and interior
• Condition of the tires 
• Windshield Washer Fluid
• Engine Oil Level
• Every 3 Months/ 3,000 Miles inspect:
• Automatic Transmission Fluid
• Battery and Cables
• Engine oil and filter
• Muffler and Exhaust 
• Hoses and belts
• Power Steering Fluid
• Every 6 Months/6,000 Miles inspect:
• Chassis Lubrication
• Wiper Blades
• Every 12 Months/ 12,000 miles inspect:
• Brakes
• Cabin Air Filter
• Coolant
• Steering and Suspension
• Car Alignment

The list above can seem to be overwhelming, but let your auto mechanic take care of your vehicle.  They are trained and knowledgeable when it comes to understanding and following the vehicle maintenance schedule for your specific vehicle.  You can drive your car with confidence knowing it is as safe as possible!  

Need to know more about the vehicle maintenance schedule?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about what does car maintenance include and to make an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served car owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

What’s On the Car Maintenance Checklist?

You say you aren’t experiencing any car issues.  Though, being a responsible vehicle owner means taking good care of your car before issues develop so that it is as safe as possible to drive.  Do you want to know what’s on the car maintenance checklist? Be sure to find a trustworthy mechanic that will let you know what kind of vehicle maintenance needs to be done, and when it should be done. 

If you are like many drivers, you will add at least 10,000 to 15,000 miles to your car during a year’s time.  Naturally, this wears down the parts and systems.  Having car maintenance taken care of at the appropriate intervals will help these parts and systems last longer.

There is a reason car manufacturers recommend certain maintenance intervals. To keep your vehicle running strong, here is a car maintenance checklist:

1. Change the oil and filter--about every 3,000 to 7,000 miles, or every 3 to 5 months.
2. Tune-up--Ensure your spark plugs, filters, and hoses are clean and intact. 
3. Air filter--Replace about every 15,000 to 20,000 miles. 
4. Timing belt -- Replace about every 4 or 5 years. 
5. Fuel system--Add a fuel system additive or cleaner to the fuel tank about every 3,000 to 7,000 miles to increase engine performance.
6. Lights--Replace any broken or burned out light bulbs.
7. Tires-- Inspect tire pressure at least monthly, and a tire rotation about every 6,000 miles.
8. Brakes--Have the braking system checked about every 5,000 to 7,000 miles. The brake fluid should be flushed about every 2 years.
9. Cooling system--Flush every 3 years or 50,000 to 60,000 miles. Check it periodically for leaks, blockages, contamination, and corrosion/oxidation problems.
10. Steering--A power steering system flush is recommended at least every 30,000 miles.
11. Transmission--For manuals, change the fluid at least every 20,000 miles.  On an automatic, change the fluid and filter every 60,000 miles.

Remember:  Taking good care of your car means it will last you longer and give you more miles with fewer issues!

Are you looking for quality vehicle maintenance services?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about what’s on the car maintenance checklist and to make an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

Wondering when to Do Maintenance on Your Car?

Many drivers, you want to take good care of your vehicle and may wonder when to do maintenance on your car?  The first thing to do is to find your owner’s manual.  The next thing to do is to read it!  The third thing to do to take good care of your vehicle is to follow the suggested vehicle maintenance schedule listed in that manual. 

Fortunately, for those of us who are challenged when it comes to reading our vehicle service guide, there are two other ways in which you may be reminded as to when to do maintenance on your car:

• In-vehicle Maintenance Reminder Systems Newer cars normally have an in-vehicle maintenance reminder system that makes mileage-based schedules obsolete. These reminder systems take a number of vehicle operating conditions into account and provide an alert on the dash when it is time for an engine oil change, fluid level inspects component checks and other car maintenance services.  These systems have been found to be fairly accurate as to when service should be performed.
• Mileage-Based Maintenance Service Intervals Older cars have service intervals based on mileage. There are generally two different maintenance schedules listed in the manual--one for cars driven in “normal” operating conditions and another for “severe” operating conditions.  The definition of “severe” mainly means short trips of 5 miles or less, extreme climates, stop-and-go driving, towing a trailer or carrying heavy loads.  In addition to reading your owner’s manual to know those mileage intervals, your auto technician can give you sound advice as to when to do maintenance on your car.

Tip to Remember:  Plan ahead for car maintenance items by finding an auto shop and auto technician for small problems so you know you can trust them for the bigger service items or repairs that will come up down the road!

Wondering when to do maintenance on your car?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about preventative car maintenance and to make an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

Wondering How Often Should You Take Your Car in for Maintenance?

Summer has arrived in all its glory.  You had your car serviced last fall, but now you may be wondering just how often should you take your car in for maintenance.  You want to make sure your vehicle is as trustworthy as the potential for the hot days ahead to prevent breakdowns and costly repairs. This means that you should follow the car maintenance schedule listed in your owner’s manual.

Some years ago, Kelton Research published a study that is still true today.  It shows that nine-in-ten American car owners believe they maintain their vehicles correctly.  However, only 41 percent actually follow the manufacturer’s vehicle maintenance recommendations.  The study further reports that less than one in four (23 percent) of car owners work with a certified mechanic to develop a plan for ongoing vehicle maintenance.  From these statistics, it is easy to deduce that there are a lot of vehicles on the road that is greatly in need of some type of auto repair. 

Here are several of the most important vehicle maintenance items:

• Every week or month
• Dashboard Indicator/Warning Lights
• Lights, exterior and interior
• Condition of the tires 
• Windshield Washer Fluid
• Engine Oil Level
• Every 3 Months/ 3,000 Miles
• Automatic Transmission Fluid
• Battery and Cables
• Engine oil and filter
• Exhaust and muffler
• Hoses and belts
• Power Steering Fluid
• Every 6 Months/6,000 Miles
  • Chassis Lubrication
  • Wiper Blades
• Every 12 Months/ 12,000 miles
• Brakes
• Cabin Air Filter
• Coolant (Antifreeze)
• Steering and Suspension
• Wheel Alignment

Preserve the investment you made in your vehicle!  Taking care of your car could be one of the wisest economical decisions you make.

Wondering how often should you take your car in for maintenance?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about the car maintenance schedule and to Make an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served car owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.