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.