Overview
Critical parts of your engine are lubricated, cleaned and cooled by your car’s oil and filter. Other specifically formulated fluids are used for the operation and protection of systems and components such as brakes, power steering, and cooling and axles. Your car may also be equipped with a variety of filters including those for the transmission, fuel system and interior ventilation.
Why Do I Need This Service?
Periodic oil and filter changes keep your engine clean on the inside. Dust, metallic shavings, condensation and even antifreeze can contaminate motor oil. Additives, which break down over time, are also subject to contamination. Other car fluids may require periodic replacement. For example, the majority of automatic transmission failures are heat-related, and automatic transmission fluid breaks down rapidly when subjected to high temperatures. Your car owner’s manual may specify periodic flushing and filling of the brake hydraulic system because contaminated brake fluid may lead to erosion and other problems in the hydraulic system, especially, on cars with antilock brakes (ABS).
What is a Typical Service?
- Change oil and filter every 3,000 miles or three months. Many car manufacturers recommend extended oil drain intervals for some drivers.
- If you regularly make short trips in your car, drive in stop-and-go traffic, idle for extended periods, drive in dusty or dirty air conditions, tow a trailer or live in a cold-weather.
- Region- stay with the 3,000-mile/three-month schedule.
- For automatic transmissions, brakes, power steering and axles, vehicle-specific fluids should be used.
- Coolant should be changed every two years or 24,000 miles on cars with ethylene glycol antifreeze.
