Mileage-based Maintenance: How to Keep Your Car on the Road
As we’ve pointed out in prior posts, the new and used car market continues to see unprecedented rises in demand, therefore inflating the cost of used vehicle prices to over 50% of pre-pandemic levels.
We’re often asked by our customers what is the best thing they can do to maintain their vehicle.
So, to continue with our Monday Maintenance series, we’d like to introduce you to the most cost-effective repair plan: Mileage-Based Maintenance!
What is Mileage-Based Maintenance?
With continued use, everyone experiences natural wear and tear on their vehicle; specifically, in Minnesota’s extreme climate. Mileage-based maintenance services help to combat this natural progression to keep your vehicle operating efficiently and effectively – simply put, following a recommended maintenance schedule can not only save you money but can keep your car on the road longer.
What are Mileage-Based Maintenance Intervals and What Do They Include?
Every vehicle contains an owner’s manual which outlines the specific, recommended maintenance schedule for each make and model. However, when your vehicle hits major milestones such as 5,000 miles, 30,000 miles, or 60,000 miles, taking care of basics such as oil changes, fluid flushes and refills, and brake services can uncover small problems before they escalate into larger, more expensive repairs. Below is a list of regular items you should keep an eye on once your vehicle hits those major milestones.
Every 5,000 Miles
- Perform an oil change using full-synthetic oil.
- Check fluid levels, inspect lights and tires.
- Inspect brakes.
0 to 36,000 Miles
- Replace air filters, fuel filters.
- Drain/flush and replace fluids: power steering, transmission, brake.
- Inspect and replace battery: due to our extreme temperatures, batteries have an average lifespan of 4 years.
36,000 to 60,000 Miles
- Tires/alignment
- Inspect and replace brake pads if necessary.
60,000-100,000 Miles
At this point, most vehicles are no longer within the terms of their warranty. Pay closer attention to suspension components:
- Front struts
- Rear struts
- Control Arms
- Inspect Ignition system
100,000-150,000 Miles
Your vehicle has now reached an age where larger mileage-based repairs are necessary. At this interval, consider your vehicle’s time clock reset if repairs are maintained and you can follow the schedule above.
- Water pump replacement
- Timing belt replacement
- Spark plugs and wire replacement
- Alternator
150,000+ Miles
Congratulations, if you’ve made it to this milestone without any major repairs you’ve successfully maintained your vehicle! Even with completing the required maintenance, there is still always the possibility that something could simply break from overuse. Items you might potentially repair at this time could include a head gasket replacement or transmission repair and assembly.
Worried about another car payment or potential for costly repairs? We recognize the cost of upkeep and repairs may seem overwhelming; and those on a tight budget may opt to neglect regular maintenance intervals as a quick money saver. However, the problem with this approach is that most of the issues that arise with your vehicle are preventative, come without warning if your vehicle is not regularly serviced and before you know it snowball into a multi-job, multi-thousand dollar repair.
Schedule Your Routine Maintenance Today
To keep your vehicle running smoothly and avoid costly repairs, schedule your routine maintenance with Lancer Service in St. Paul, MN. Their ASE-certified technicians provide top-notch service for various makes and models, ensuring your car receives the care it needs. By following a mileage-based maintenance plan with Lancer Service, you can address potential issues early, extend your vehicle's lifespan, and maintain its performance. Contact us online or call us to book an appointment.
