Used Car Maintenance Schedule: What to Do and When

A plain-English maintenance timeline for used cars: oil, tires, brakes, fluids, battery, belts and more, with mileage guidelines.

Regular maintenance keeps a used car reliable and protects its value. Your owner's manual is the final word, but these are good general guidelines.

Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles

• Oil and filter change (sooner for severe driving)
• Tire rotation and pressure check
• Look over belts, hoses and wipers

Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles

• Engine and cabin air filters
• Brake inspection
• Battery test

Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles

• Brake fluid and coolant service
• Transmission fluid check or service
• Spark plugs on many engines

Around 100,000 miles

• Timing belt on engines that have one
• Shocks, struts and suspension check

Warning lights

A steady check-engine light means book a visit soon. A flashing one means stop driving and call. Red oil-pressure or temperature lights mean pull over safely right away.

Book any of these with the Plano Motor Group service department and check our service coupons first.