The Ultimate Car Maintenance Schedule: Mileage-Based Service Intervals
A clear, mile-by-mile breakdown of what your car needs and when — so nothing slips through the cracks.
Why mileage matters more than time
Most vehicle wear is driven by use, not calendar age. Manufacturers publish service intervals in miles (or kilometres) for exactly this reason. Following a mileage-based schedule is the single most effective way to extend engine life, protect resale value and avoid expensive surprise repairs.
Every 5,000 miles
- Engine oil and oil filter change (or per OEM spec, often 5–10k)
- Tire rotation and pressure check
- Top up windshield washer fluid
- Visual inspection: belts, hoses, lights, wipers
Every 15,000 miles
- Engine air filter inspection / replacement
- Cabin air filter replacement
- Brake pad and rotor inspection
- Check battery health and terminals
Every 30,000 miles
- Replace engine air filter and cabin filter
- Inspect suspension, steering and CV boots
- Brake fluid test (replace if moisture > 3%)
- Inspect exhaust system and heat shields
- Wheel alignment check
Every 60,000 miles
- Replace spark plugs (conventional) — iridium/platinum often last to 100k
- Replace brake fluid
- Replace coolant (long-life formulas can go further)
- Inspect/replace transmission fluid per OEM spec
- Replace serpentine belt if worn
Every 100,000 miles
- Replace timing belt (if equipped) — critical, do not delay
- Replace water pump (typically done with timing belt)
- Replace iridium/platinum spark plugs
- Full transmission service
- Power steering fluid flush
- Inspect motor and transmission mounts
Let MyCarsPal automate it
Tracking all of this manually is tedious — and easy to forget. MyCarsPal reads your service book, knows your current mileage, and pulls the manufacturer's official maintenance plan for your exact make, model and year. You get a personalised reminder before every service is due, with the estimated parts and labour cost.