Factory 30k/60k/90k Scheduled Maintenance Services
Scheduled maintenance services
Recent advances in auto technology have resulted in vehicles that are built better, longer lasting, and more maintenance free than ever before. To assure peak performance and to assure that you get years of problem-free driving, your manufacturer has developed a scheduled maintenance schedule for your car.
When should my car have Scheduled Maintenance?
There are two kinds of maintenance services - minor and major. Minor services are generally performed at 7,500, 15,000, 45,000 and 75,000 miles while major services are performed at 30,000, 60,000 and 90,000 mile intervals.
What is the "minor service"?
While it varies by make and model, minor services generally include:
- Changing the oil and oil filter
- Lubricating the chassis if applicable
- An inspection of all fluids, filters, belts, coolant hoses, brakes, steering, suspension, fuel system.
- Some manufacturers recommend tire rotation as a part of a minor service
What is the "major service"?
While it varies by make and model, major services generally include:
- All minor services.
- The replacement of various filters, fluids, and spark plugs.
- Timing belt replacement at the manufacturer’s recommended replacement interval.
- Other specified major services relate to the fuel delivery, emissions, and ignition systems.
Are You a “Normal” or “Severe” Driver?
When it comes to maintenance advice, consumers are confronted with numerous recommendations and opinions. When the owners manual recommends one type of service, a quick lube franchise recommends a second, and the dealership advises a third. It’s no wonder consumers are afraid they’ll be ripped off by paying for a service they don’t really need. Sometimes it’s impossible to know who’s telling the truth and who isn’t.
The truth is in the owners manual. Manufacturers, not car dealerships define scheduled maintenances for your car—and certainly not quick lube franchises. Most manufacturers divide maintenance schedules into “normal” and “severe” driving conditions.
You might think the conditions you put your vehicle under aren’t considered severe. If you frequently do any of the following, your car maintenance should indeed follow the "severe" driving conditions schedule:
- Taking short trips of less than 10 miles
- Extensive idling or long periods of stop-and-go driving
- Driving at high speeds
- Towing a trailer or heavy loads
- Off-road driving
- Driving in sandy or dusty conditions
- Driving in mountainous conditions
- Driving in muddy or de-iced roads
- Driving in extremely cold or extremely hot climates
Surprised? Many people are.
If the above conditions are severe, then what’s normal?
- Trips of ten miles or more
- Sustained speeds of 50 to 75 miles an hour
- Driving in low-traffic situations with few stops and starts
- Ambient temperatures above freezing and below 95° F
- If none of the severe conditions are applicable
In order to make the most informed decisions about your car’s maintenance schedule, determine what your expectations and priorities are. A mother with small children may make decisions based on safety. A person commuting to work may be concerned about fuel economy. A student might make maintenance decisions based on cash flow—or lack thereof. Each of us has different priorities and circumstances. Feel free to call us at GIC Car Clinic. We can help you make an informed decision.
Got Questions? Send us an Email
Trust GIC Car Clinic with your next 30k/60k/90k factory scheduled maintenance services. Contact us in San Jose, California, to schedule an appointment.
(408) 279-5510 375 Bird Avenue, San Jose, CA 95126 Open Monday to Saturday. 8:30 am to 6:00 pm
