Complete Car Maintenance Guide: Every Service, Schedule and Cost

Critical Service Intervals

Oil change: 5,000-15,000 miles depending on oil type. Coolant flush: 30,000-50,000 miles. Brake fluid: 2 years or 30,000 miles. Spark plugs: 30,000-100,000 miles. Timing belt: 60,000-100,000 miles on interference engines.

Consequences of Skipping

A missed timing belt on an interference engine causes catastrophic engine failure ($3,000-$8,000). Skipping oil changes accelerates wear. Following the maintenance schedule is the single most effective way to avoid expensive breakdowns.