A typical car needs an oil change every 5,000 to 10,000 miles (depending on the oil and the manufacturer), a tire rotation about every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, regular brake and fluid checks, air filters every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, and spark plugs, coolant and other fluids at longer intervals. Your owner's manual is the final word. The schedule below is a general guide for typical gas cars and light trucks.
General maintenance schedule
| Interval | What to do |
|---|---|
| Every fill-up or month | Check tire pressure, look for warning lights, check washer fluid |
| Every 5,000 – 10,000 miles | Oil and filter change (per manual or oil-life monitor), tire rotation, inspect brakes |
| Every 15,000 – 30,000 miles | Engine air filter, cabin air filter, inspect belts and hoses |
| Every 30,000 – 60,000 miles | Brake fluid (often every 2–3 years), check coolant, battery test, inspect suspension |
| Every 60,000 – 100,000 miles | Spark plugs, coolant replacement, serpentine belt, transmission fluid (per manual) |
| Timing belt engines | Replace at the manufacturer's interval, often 60,000 – 105,000 miles. Skipping it can wreck the engine |
"Normal" vs. "severe" service
Most manuals have two schedules. You may be on the severe one if you:
- Drive mostly short trips under about 10 miles
- Sit in stop-and-go traffic a lot
- Tow, carry heavy loads or drive in dusty conditions
- Live somewhere very hot or very cold
Severe service means shorter intervals for oil, filters and fluids.
Seasonal checks
- Before winter: battery test, coolant strength, wipers, tires. See our winter car checklist
- Before summer: AC performance, cooling system, battery (heat kills batteries too)
What a mobile mechanic can handle
Almost all routine maintenance: oil changes, filters, fluids, brakes, batteries, belts, spark plugs and inspections, in your driveway or office lot. Fleet owners can have several vehicles serviced in one visit.
Keep records
Write down the date, mileage and work for every service. It helps with warranty claims and resale, and it reminds you what's coming due.
Frequently asked questions
Is the dealer's maintenance schedule the same as the manual's?
Not always. Dealers sometimes recommend extras. The owner's manual lists what the manufacturer requires.
Will independent maintenance void my warranty?
No. Under federal law, you can have maintenance done by any qualified mechanic. Keep receipts and use parts that meet spec.
Do electric cars need maintenance?
Less, but still: tires, brakes, cabin filter, coolant for the battery system and more. Check the manual.
Book routine maintenance
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