Vehicle maintenance checklist: a free car service schedule and log
Most expensive car repairs start as something a quick check would have caught. Use this checklist with your owner's manual, which has the exact intervals for your vehicle.
Every month
- Check tire pressure, including the spare
- Look at tire tread and sidewalls
- Check oil level and washer fluid
- Make sure all lights work
At every oil change
- Change the oil and filter at the interval in your manual
- Rotate the tires if they are due
- Check the air filter, wipers and belts
- Check coolant and brake fluid levels
Every year
- Have the brakes inspected
- Test the battery, especially before winter
- Replace the cabin air filter
- Review your manual for big-mileage services like spark plugs or transmission fluid
What to record each time
Write the date, mileage, the work done, the shop, the cost and the parts used. Track fuel fill-ups and mileage too if you want to spot a drop in gas mileage early. A complete service record can also help when you sell or trade in the vehicle.
Prefer paper?
The Vehicle Maintenance Log Book is a paperback on Amazon for logging oil changes, repairs, service and gas mileage.
General information only. Your owner's manual has the right schedule for your vehicle.