March, 2014
Do You Know Your Vehicle Maintenance Schedule? BY STACY FLEEUP Now that vehicles are commonly on the road for 200,000 miles and more, many owners are confused by needed maintenance. ‘Back in the day’, maintenance schedules were very similar from vehicle to vehicle and estimating costs for scheduled maintenance was pretty straightforward. Modern vehicle maintenance schedules and costs vary greatly, even within the same make or family (ie Ford). For example, some modern vehicles are equipped with long life spark plugs designed to last up to 120,000 miles! However, others are equipped with plugs that should be changed every 30,000 miles. Do you know which type your vehicle requires? Fuel filters are another example. Not all modern vehicles are equipped with a serviceable fuel filter. If your vehicle has an inline filter it should be replaced
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regularly, typically every 30,000 miles; an in-tank filter doesn’t get changed unless the fuel tank is removed to deal with a fuel pump issue (common on Chevrolet suv/trucks). All fluids should be changed periodically. Most people change their engine oil at regular intervals, but what about transmission fluid? Transmissions work very hard with all the hilly driving we do; replacing the fluid and/or filter regularly is critical to the life of your transmission. Differential fluid, transfer case fluid (for 4wd or AWD vehicles), and coolant also need to be changed at vehicle specific mileage intervals. Don’t be fooled by a manufacturer suggestion of “lifetime fluid”… their version of “lifetime” is typically only the length of the powertrain warranty (ie engine/transmission warranty), which can be as short as 30,000 miles. You want your vehicle to last longer than that. Regular service and maintenance is the key.
Money spent on preventive maintenance will help avoid costly future repairs. Just as you fill your gas tank before a problem develops (you run out of gas), you should perform regular vehicle maintenance to keep problems from developing. Transmission replacement alone can cost up to $4000! Keeping your vehicle maintained and in tip top shape helps assure that it won’t break
down, leave you stranded, or cause you expensive repairs. Modern vehicle maintenance can be confusing. It is important to work with a trusted local mechanic who can help guide you through the maze. Stop by Service On Site in Wrightwood, any time for a free customized maintenance schedule for your vehicle.
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