All automotive manufacturers require regularly scheduled maintenance to keep your warranty valid, to keep your vehicle safe, and to extend the life of your vehicle.  

Let Alabama Auto Repair Do It For You!
Alabama Auto Repair has instant access to the database of scheduled maintenance for all automotive manufacturers including Ford, GM, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Honda, Toyota, Mitsubishi, Mazda, Hyundai, and many more.  We also keep track of all inspections and repair work performed on your vehicle at this shop.

The oil change is just the beginning of maintaining your vehicle as safe and dependable transportation.  Routine maintenance is also required to keep the vehicle’s warranty in effect.

The first place to start when looking for information about a specific vehicle is your Owner’s Manual.  The Owner’s Manual is the dusty, seldom used book found in the glove compartment of your car.  You probably swore that you would read it cover to cover when you initially invested in your car! The information provided below is a summary of what you would find in your owner’s manual, but for the most accurate information, open the glove box and refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations found in the owner’s manual for your vehicle.

If the Owners Manual or maintenance schedule booklet cannot be found, most manufacturers will have that information on their website. Simply do a search for the manufacturer on the Internet. When the manufacturer’s site is located, look for a tab for owner information and the maintenance schedule should be found there.

Mileage Intervals
Your owner’s manual will break down the necessary maintenance for you by mileage intervals.  While these schedules vary slightly from one manufacturer to the other, they all are designed to keep your vehicle in a safe working condition.  And while today’s automobiles often last for 150,000 miles or more, it is a common misconception that they need “less” maintenance.  By design, it is the periodic maintenance, designed wear and replacement of predetermined components, that allow the vehicle to operate as long as it does.  Generally, your vehicle needs some type of service every 3,000 miles.  Manufacturers have also established major service intervals every 12,000 miles for some components and every 15,000 miles for others.  Here is a partial list.  For a complete list, refer to your owner’s manual.

3,000 - 6,000 Mile Intervals

• Oil Changes
• Inspect all fluid levels, belts, hoses, filters, and tire pressure
• Lubricate and inspect front suspension, drive line, etc.

12,000 – 15,000 Mile Intervals

(Add the following to the 3,000 - 6,000 mile interval)

• Balance and Rotate Wheels
• Brake Inspection – front, rear, and parking
• Inspect Exhaust System for leaks and damage
• Check four-wheel alignment

30,000 Mile Intervals

(Add the following to the 12,000 Mile intervals)

• Replace PCV valve
• Replace air cleaner and PCV filter
• Replace or adjust spark plugs
• Replace fuel filter
• Perform transmission fluid service
• Perform fuel system service
• Perform cooling system flush and service
• Inspect EGR System
• Inspect wires and connectors
• Check engine timing
• Inspect fuel tank cap and lines

Weekly Maintenance

• Oil level
• Collant level
• Brake fluid
• Automatic trasmission fluid or clutch fluid
• Windshield washer fluid
• Power steering fluid
• Tire pressure
• Visual inspection of engine or ground for fluid leaks

If you see any fluid leaks, make a note of the color.

• Green - antifreeze/coolant
• Pink - transmission fluid or power steering fluid
• Dark Brown - motor oil
• Colorless - gasoline, brake fluid or AC condensation

The Service Personnel at Alabama Auto Repair will be glad to check any of these potential issues for you. Just ask us!

The one service that’s usually required the most is an engine oil and filter change. Normally, every time a vehicle is scheduled for routine maintenance service, an oil change is performed. When you have your oil changed at Alabama Auto Repair, our technicians will also perform a free courtesy inspection of the vehicle and recommend any other repairs or services that may be needed. Routine Preventive Maintenance will extend the life of your valued car or truck. Please don’t ignore this important aspect of vehicle ownership.

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