Service library

Maintenance questions, answered straight

Each guide gives the interval range, warning signs, DIY difficulty, and expected cost, then points you to the exact figure for your vehicle.

01 / Brakes

Brakes

01 How often should brake fluid be changed? Every two to five years, depending on the brand's schedule. Three years is the safe middle. 02 How long do brake pads last? Pads wear by use, not mileage. Most last 30,000 to 70,000 miles; measure them at every rotation.

02 / Cooling

Cooling

01 How often does coolant need to be changed? Modern long-life coolant is first due around 100,000 miles or 5 to 10 years, then more often after that.

03 / Drivetrain

Drivetrain

01 How often should transmission fluid be changed? Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles for most hard-working transmissions. Lifetime claims deserve skepticism.

04 / Electrical

Electrical

01 How long does a car battery last? Plan on four to six years, less in hot climates. Test yearly from year three.

05 / Engine

Engine

01 When should the serpentine belt be replaced? Inspect from 60,000 miles and plan replacement between 90,000 and 120,000. 02 When should a timing belt be replaced? Follow the mileage or time limit for your engine, whichever comes first.

06 / Engine oil

Engine oil

01 How often does oil really need changing? Follow your schedule, typically 5,000 to 10,000 miles on synthetic. The 3,000-mile rule is a relic.

07 / Filters

Filters

01 How often should the cabin air filter be changed? Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, or yearly in dusty areas and pollen seasons. 02 How often should the engine air filter be changed? Every 30,000 to 45,000 miles for most vehicles, half that on dusty roads.

08 / Ignition

Ignition

01 When do spark plugs need to be replaced? Iridium plugs commonly run 100,000 to 120,000 miles. Copper plugs and some turbo engines run far shorter.

09 / Tires

Tires

01 How often should tires be rotated? Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, most easily paired with every oil change.