What is My Car Maintenance Schedule?

Whether you drive a brand-new Audi or a pre-owned model, routine maintenance is essential. If you don’t self-identify as a gearhead, you may ask, “What is my car maintenance schedule?” Luckily, the service team here at Serra Traverse City is passionate about offering high-quality automotive care and insightful guidance to help our Bellaire drivers feel empowered in ownership. While various makes, models, and body styles will have different needs, you will find a great general car maintenance schedule below!

Standard Suggested Car Maintenance Schedule

At Serra Traverse City, we hear questions like, “What is my car maintenance schedule?” all the time. To ensure your vehicle stays in tip-top shape to support your commute from Kalkaska to Lake City, follow the service intervals found here: 

Every 3 months or 3,000 miles:

• Automatic transmission, power steering, wiper fluid levels
• Engine oil and air filter
• Belts, exhaust, and hoses
• All lights inside and out
• Fuel filter
• Tire pressure, tire tread wear and tear check

Every 6 months or 6,000 miles:

• Car battery and cables
• Chassis lubrication
• Windshield wipers
• Polish your vehicle

Every 12 months or 12,000 miles:

• Brake system
• Coolant levels
• Transmission fluid levels
• Steering and suspension

Monthly Car Maintenance

While you can always visit your nearest Serra dealership for expert car care, certain tasks can be handled in your Traverse City garage. You’ll want to perform the following on a monthly basis to ensure your vehicle is road-ready:

• Check to see if the check engine light is on
• Clean the interior and exterior
• Make sure all the interior and exterior lights work
• Check tire pressure and tread
• Make sure windshield wiper fluid is filled 

Why Follow a Car Maintenance Schedule?

While many of us intuitively know that vehicles need routine maintenance, it can be frustrating at times trying to determine what needs to be serviced and when. This frustration can sometimes lead to drivers waiting until a service light flickers on to have any maintenance performed. That’s why our team is here to help! Our service schedule is a great rule of thumb that any driver can follow, regardless of make or model. Staying on top of the status of your vehicle will help technicians spot issues before they become serious and will often help you save money on repairs. 

What’s more, a strong service record is ideal when it’s time to resell your vehicle. Keeping your vehicle in good shape will not only boost the curb appeal and value of your ride, but it will also look great when the purchaser runs a report on your car. Routine service goes a long way towards ensuring your vehicle performs properly for years to come!

Schedule Service at Serra Traverse City 

Now that you have a great outline to follow when it comes to regular car maintenance, team up with Serra Traverse City for all of your car care needs. Our service centers are located all throughout Traverse City, meaning reliable maintenance is always just around the corner. If your vehicle needs some TLC, schedule service with us today. In the meantime, feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns about servicing your vehicle.