Autoworks car care

Vehicle maintenance guide

Keep up with the little things. Keep going for the long run.

Regular maintenance helps improve reliability, fuel economy, and the lifespan of your vehicle. Use our guide to see what to service, when it is typically due, and why it matters.

Explore the intervals

A starting point for your vehicle. These intervals reflect what our Autoworks team typically does for our own vehicles. Always refer to your owner's manual for manufacturer-specific recommendations. Services marked “If equipped” apply only to vehicles with that component.

Everyday essentials

Small, regular services that help keep your vehicle running well.

Engine Oil & Filter

Typical interval

Every 5,000 miles

For full synthetic oil
Why it matters

Fresh oil lubricates moving engine parts, while the filter captures contaminants. Regular changes help reduce wear and protect your engine.

Tire Rotation

Typical interval

Every 5,000 miles

Why it matters

Rotating tires helps spread wear more evenly across the set, supporting consistent handling and helping your tires last longer.

Engine Air Filter

Typical interval

Every 15,000–24,000 miles

Why it matters

A clean air filter lets your engine breathe while keeping dust and debris out. Replacing a dirty filter helps maintain airflow and performance.

Cabin Air Filter

Typical interval

Every year

Why it matters

The cabin filter traps dust, pollen, and debris before they enter your vehicle's ventilation system. A fresh filter supports cleaner cabin air and good airflow.

Wheel Alignment

Typical interval

Every 2 years

Sooner if uneven tire wear or a driving problem is observed
Why it matters

Proper alignment helps your tires meet the road at the correct angles. It can reduce uneven wear and help your vehicle track straight.

Fluids & drivetrain

Protect the systems that help you stop, steer, stay cool, and keep moving.

Brake Fluid Service

Typical interval

Every 3 years

Why it matters

Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which can lower its boiling point and contribute to corrosion. Fresh fluid helps maintain dependable braking performance.

Transmission Service

Typical interval

Every 50,000 miles

CVT: every 25,000–30,000 miles
Why it matters

Transmission fluid helps lubricate and cool internal components. Regular service helps protect against wear; continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) have a shorter interval in this guide.

Coolant Exchange

Typical interval

Every 3 years

Why it matters

Coolant helps control engine temperature and protect the cooling system from corrosion. Replacing it replenishes the additives that break down with age.

Power Steering Fluid Service

Typical interval

Every 60,000 miles

For vehicles with hydraulic power steering
Why it matters

Clean fluid helps lubricate the power steering pump and other hydraulic components for smooth steering. Electric power steering systems do not use this fluid.

Differential Service

If equipped
Typical interval

Every 60,000 miles

Why it matters

Differential fluid protects the gears and bearings that transfer power to your wheels. Fresh fluid helps limit heat and wear under load.

Transfer Case Service

If equipped
Typical interval

Every 60,000 miles

Why it matters

The transfer case sends power to the front and rear axles on equipped vehicles. Servicing its fluid helps protect the internal components from wear.

Engine & fuel system

Help your engine run smoothly and plan ahead for major maintenance.

Fuel Treatment Service

Typical interval

Every year

At an oil change
Why it matters

An appropriate fuel treatment can help control deposits in the fuel system. We can check which treatment is suitable for your vehicle.

Fuel Induction Cleaning Service

Typical interval

Every 30,000 miles

For gasoline direct injection (GDI) engines
Why it matters

Deposits can build up in the intake system of GDI engines. Induction cleaning helps address that buildup to support smoother operation and airflow.

Spark Plug Replacement

Typical interval

Every 85,000–100,000 miles

Why it matters

Spark plugs ignite the air-fuel mixture in a gasoline engine. Replacing worn plugs helps prevent misfires, rough running, and difficult starts.

Timing Belt Replacement

If equipped
Typical interval

Every 85,000–100,000 miles

Or every 7–10 years
Why it matters

The timing belt keeps key engine components synchronized. Replacing it at the specified interval helps avoid a breakdown and potentially serious engine damage.

Checks at every oil service

A regular look at the little things can help catch concerns early.

Included with our Gold Oil Service. All four checks below are part of your visit.

Schedule Gold Oil Service

Serpentine Belt Inspection

Typical interval

At every oil service

Why it matters

This belt drives important engine accessories. Checking for cracking, fraying, and wear helps identify a belt that could leave you stranded.

Coolant Hose Inspection

Typical interval

At every oil service

Why it matters

Hoses carry coolant through the engine and radiator. Checking for leaks, cracks, and deterioration helps catch problems before they lead to overheating.

Battery Test

Typical interval

At every oil service

Why it matters

Testing helps reveal a weakening battery before it causes a no-start. It is a simple way to keep track of your battery's condition.

Wiper Blade Inspection

Typical interval

At every oil service

Why it matters

Worn blades can streak, skip, or leave parts of the windshield unclear. Regular checks help keep your view clear in wet weather.

A little care goes a long way

Ready for your next service?

Our team at Autoworks of Valdese in Valdese, NC can help you keep your maintenance on track. Choose your services and a visit that works for you.

Schedule Service