What Should My Car Maintenance Schedule Be?

Whether you just bought a brand-new Genesis or a preowned car, every owner’s manual will include a recommended vehicle maintenance schedule. Following your maintenance schedule will help keep your vehicle in pristine condition, delivering the same level of performance and efficiency as when you first purchased it for a longer period.

Understanding Car Maintenance Schedules

Most manufacturers use a 30/60/90 schedule. That means that in addition to regular consumable maintenance items such as oil changes, there are certain items that should be replaced or inspected at intervals at 30,000 miles, 60,000 miles, or 90,000 miles.

Routine Maintenance

There are several components of your vehicle that should be maintained or replaced as needed, such as windshield wipers, washer fluid, and headlights. In addition, oil, oil filters, wheels, and tires have maintenance that should be completed at shorter intervals than the 30/60/90 schedule.

Oil and Filter Change: If your vehicle runs on traditional motor oil, you’ll need an oil change around every 3,000 miles. Most modern vehicles, however, use synthetic oil or synthetic oil blends, which can last between 5,000 and 10,000 miles. Check your owner’s manual for exact mileage.

Tire and Wheels: You should make checking your tire pressure and tread depth a normal part of your routine and make corrections as needed. Whenever your vehicle has a minor impact, such as hitting a curb, or when you have new tires mounted, you’ll also need to have a wheel alignment performed. Tire rotations should be scheduled every 6,000 to 8,000 miles to prolong the life of your tires and promote even wear.

What Car Maintenance Should I Complete at 30,000 Miles?

Air Filter: A clogged air filter is like your vehicle having a stuffy nose. It makes it hard for your engine to break and reduces engine performance. Change it every 15,000 to 30,000 miles or at 15,000 miles in dusty conditions.

Fuel Filter: A clogged fuel filter can cause the engine to run poorly or stop. Recommendations for replacement vary, with some suggesting as early as 30,000 miles. Consult your mechanic for a pressure test to assess your fuel filter's condition.

What Car Maintenance Should I Complete at 60,000 Miles?

Battery: Affected by extreme temperatures, age, and inactivity. Typically, it lasts 4-5 years (50,000 to 60,000 miles). Test for charge-holding capacity and check for clean terminals.

Brake Fluid: Hydraulic system fluid gets contaminated by water, causing a "squishy" brake pedal. Replace fluid every 20,000 to 45,000 miles as per vehicle manual.

Brake Pads/Shoes: Designed to wear out; screech when needing replacement. Check regularly; it can last up to 50,000 miles.

Brake Rotors: Suffer heat and friction with brake pads, which may warp. Replace or resurface around 60,000 miles. Dry off after washing to prevent corrosion.

Coolant: Essential for maintaining engine temperature. Replace at 60,000 miles, ensuring a full system flush.

Transmission Fluid: Critical for lubrication; monitor regularly. Manual transmission fluid change is recommended between 30,000 and 60,000 miles, more frequently under heavy use. Automatic transmission fluid lifespan varies widely; consult the vehicle manual for guidance.

What Car Maintenance Should I Complete at 90,000 Miles?

Hoses: Transport coolant, power steering fluid, and air conditioning gases. Check and replace as needed, especially approaching 100,000 miles due to the risk of cracking and failure.

Power Steering Fluid: Low levels cause heavy steering or noise when turning. Flush and replace around 75,000 miles or as issues occur.

Spark Plugs/Ignition System: Failure can trigger a "check engine" light, hard starting, or rough running. Lifespan varies by material: iridium or titanium plugs last up to 100,000 miles, while copper plugs may need replacement by 30,000 miles.

Timing Belt: Essential for engines using belts over chains; replace between 75,000 and 90,000 miles to prevent catastrophic damage. Timing chains, though more durable, still require inspection.

Where Can I Get Maintenance Service near Jacksonville, FL

Our state-of-the-art, full-service auto center is staffed by skilled technicians and equipped with the latest automotive tools to give you top-tier maintenance and repairs. Book an appointment with our team at Genesis of North East Jacksonville, and we’ll keep you on schedule to maintain your vehicle.