1. New Cars:
- During the warranty period, it's important to follow the manufacturer's recommended service schedule, which may be every 6 months or 12,000 kilometers (7,500 miles).
- During this time, servicing typically involves oil changes, fluid checks, tire inspections, and general maintenance.
2. Older Cars (3-5 years):
- Once the warranty period ends, you can extend the service intervals slightly, but it's still advisable to have your car serviced every 12 months or 20,000 kilometers (12,500 miles).
- Maintenance tasks during this period may include oil changes, filter replacements, brake inspections, and more thorough checks of various systems.
3. Well-Maintained Cars (6+ years):
- If your car has been consistently serviced according to the manufacturer's guidelines, you may be able to extend the service intervals further.
- However, it's still recommended to have your car inspected at least once a year (or every 24,000 kilometers/15,000 miles) for any potential issues.
4. High-Mileage Cars:
- Once your car has accumulated significant mileage (usually over 100,000 kilometers/62,500 miles), it's important to increase the frequency of servicing.
- This may involve more frequent oil changes, fluid checks, and comprehensive inspections to ensure the car remains in good condition.
5. Factors Influencing Service Intervals:
- Driving conditions: If you drive in harsh environments, such as dusty areas, extreme temperatures, or heavy traffic, you may need to service your car more frequently.
- Type of car: Some high-performance cars or vehicles with specific engines may have different service requirements than standard cars.
- Manufacturer guidelines: Always consult your car's owner's manual for the specific service schedule recommended by the manufacturer.
It's always a good idea to maintain a regular service history for your car, as this can help you keep track of maintenance tasks, identify potential problems early on, and preserve the value of your vehicle.
