How Often Should You Bring Your Car in for Service?

Apr 7, 2025

Owning a vehicle comes with the responsibility of regular maintenance to ensure its longevity and performance. Understanding how often you should bring your car in for service is crucial for keeping it in optimal condition. At Sunset Hills Subaru, located at 10100 Watson Rd, Sunset Hills, MO 63127, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional service to our customers from St Charles, MO to Chesterfield, MO, and Maryland Heights, MO. Call us at (314) 476-9638 to schedule your next service appointment.

The Importance of Regular Car Service

Regular car service is essential for maintaining vehicle performance and safety. By adhering to a consistent maintenance schedule, you can prevent unexpected breakdowns and extend the life of your car. At Sunset Hills Subaru, we recommend servicing your vehicle every 6 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. This guideline is particularly beneficial for residents in St Charles, MO, and Chesterfield, MO, where varying weather conditions can impact vehicle performance.

During a typical service appointment, our certified technicians will perform a comprehensive inspection, including oil changes, fluid level checks, and tire rotations. This proactive approach helps identify potential issues before they escalate into costly repairs. For more detailed information, visit our New Subaru Inventory to explore the latest models equipped with advanced maintenance features.

Essential Car Maintenance

Understanding what car maintenance is really necessary can be overwhelming. However, focusing on a few key areas can make a significant difference. Essential maintenance tasks include:

Oil Changes: Regular oil changes are crucial for engine health. Depending on your vehicle’s make and model, this should be done every 5,000 to 7,500 miles.
Tire Care: Regular tire rotations and pressure checks ensure even wear and improve fuel efficiency.
Brake Inspections: Frequent brake checks are vital for safety, especially in urban areas like Creve Coeur, MO, and Maplewood, MO, where stop-and-go traffic is common.

For those looking to maintain their vehicles with genuine parts, consider visiting our Parts Department for high-quality Subaru components.

Mileage vs. Time: When to Service Your Car

Deciding whether to service your car based on mileage or time can be confusing. The general rule is to use whichever comes first. For instance, if you reach the recommended mileage before the time-based interval, prioritize mileage. Conversely, if time elapses first, schedule your maintenance accordingly. This approach is particularly relevant for residents in Glendale, MO, and Webster Groves, MO, where driving conditions can vary significantly.

Preventative maintenance by mileage is a reliable strategy to keep your vehicle in top condition. Regular checks and replacements, such as air filters and spark plugs, can prevent major issues down the road. For more details, explore our Service Scheduler to book your next appointment.

Understanding Tune-Up Services

A tune-up is a comprehensive maintenance service that ensures your vehicle’s optimal performance. It typically includes:

Battery Voltage Check: Ensures all electronic systems function correctly.
Spark Plug Replacement: Essential for efficient engine performance.
Fluid Inspections: Includes checking and topping off all essential fluids.

For residents in Concord, MO, and Twin Oaks, MO, where seasonal changes can affect vehicle performance, regular tune-ups are crucial. Schedule a Service and Diagnostics appointment to keep your vehicle running smoothly.

Transmission Fluid and Spark Plug Replacement

Transmission fluid and spark plug replacement are critical components of vehicle maintenance. Transmission fluid should typically be changed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions. For those in Valley Park, MO, and Fenton, MO, where hilly terrains can stress the transmission, adhering to this schedule is vital.

Spark plugs should be replaced every 30,000 to 50,000 miles to maintain engine efficiency. Regular replacements can prevent misfires and improve fuel economy. For expert advice, contact our service department at (314) 476-9638.

Cost of Routine Maintenance

Budgeting for routine maintenance is essential for avoiding unexpected expenses. On average, vehicle owners should set aside $50 to $100 per month for regular upkeep. This includes oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections. For those in Lakeshire, MO, and Richmond Heights, MO, where driving conditions can vary, maintaining a budget ensures your vehicle remains in peak condition.

Service Life and Oil Change Frequency

The average service life of a car is approximately 8 years or 150,000 miles. However, with proper maintenance, vehicles can surpass 15 years and reach over 300,000 miles. Regular oil changes are crucial for achieving this longevity. For newer vehicles, oil changes are recommended every 7,500 to 10,000 miles, especially if synthetic oil is used.

For residents in Chesterfield, MO, and Fairview Heights, Il, where commuting distances can be significant, adhering to these guidelines is essential. Visit our Used Vehicle Inventory to explore reliable pre-owned options that meet your needs.

100,000-Mile Maintenance Checklist

Reaching the 100,000-mile mark is a significant milestone for any vehicle. At this stage, comprehensive maintenance is necessary to ensure continued reliability. Key tasks include:

Timing Belt Replacement: Prevents engine damage.
Brake System Overhaul: Ensures safety and performance.
Coolant System Flush: Maintains engine temperature.

For those in Sappington, MO, and Crestwood, MO, where extreme temperatures can affect vehicle performance, following this checklist is crucial. Use our trade-in tool to assess the value of your current vehicle and consider upgrading to a newer model.

Maximizing Vehicle Longevity

Maximizing your vehicle’s longevity involves more than just regular maintenance. It requires a proactive approach to care and attention to detail. This includes:

Using Genuine Parts: Ensures compatibility and performance.
Following Manufacturer Guidelines: Adheres to recommended service intervals.
Staying Informed: Keeps you aware of the latest maintenance techniques and technologies.

At Sunset Hills Subaru, we are committed to helping our customers from Sunset Hills, MO, and beyond maintain their vehicles in top condition. Visit us at 10100 Watson Rd, Sunset Hills, MO 63127 or call (314) 476-9638 for all your automotive needs.

Tags: Subaru Maintenance, Subaru Service, Sunset Hills Subaru Service
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