A stitch in time saves nine. Nowhere does this adage hold truer than in the case of routine automobile maintenance. Just like any other machine, your car also needs to be shown love and care from time to time.
This is especially true of vehicles on Alaskan highways, well-known for unexpected bumps, chuckholes, and loose gravel.
The engine mileage is an excellent way to assess whether it’s time for routine maintenance. This guide will discuss, based on miles, which part needs attention and when by a reliable mileage interval service in Anchorage, AK.
Once the Car Hits 3,000 to 7,000 Miles
Alaskan roads have much to teach, about roads in particular and perhaps life in general.
However, great road trips bring with them greater responsibilities. Every 3,000 to 7,000 miles, you need to get your car’s oil filter checked. There could be oil filter defects such as channeling, media migration, fatigue cracking, etc. Other than that, the experts will also check for optimal oil levels.
At this engine mileage, it is also recommended that all exteriors are given a thorough check by a reputed mileage interval service in Anchorage, AK. These include coolant, power steering, transmission fluid, windshield wipers, tires, exterior lights, etc.
Once the Car Hits 15,000 to 30,000 Miles
The minute your automobile hits the 15,000-mile mark, it’s time to replace the air filter. Since this component is responsible for preventing environmental contaminants from entering the engine, it can get clogged too often.
Besides that, other parts that may need to be monitored beyond the 15,000-mile mark include:
- The radiator hoses.
- The power steering fluid.
- The HVAC system.
- All the components that offer suspension.
Between 35,000 to 50,000 Miles
Even under ideal operating conditions, your car’s battery will not last a lifetime. Its power will gradually deteriorate unless the engine starts, leaving you stranded in the middle of nowhere.
All this can be avoided by keeping a tab on your miles. Once the car hits the 35,000-mile mark, it's best to get the battery inspected for any defects. Then, after 40,000 miles, getting the following parts checked is mandatory – the ignition system, spark plug wires, and coolants. Finally, all these checks (the battery included) are again recommended at 50,000 miles.
Every 60,000 Miles
Reaching the 60,000-mile mark is nothing short of hitting a milestone! So, at this point, some parts of the car that need to be checked (without fail) include the braking system. Unfortunately, braking pads mainly wear out by this point, so they won’t be able to provide friction sufficiently.
Even the braking fluid levels may fall below the optimal mark. Besides the braking, the power steering fluid and radiator hoses may also need a thorough check.
In any case, the auto manufacturer’s manual that you receive with the automobile will have instructions on when to perform certain checks. The same will be provided as a time frame (years or months) and the engine mileage. It’s always best to monitor the latter, especially if you drive your vehicle frequently.
Get the Show on the Road!
After reading this article, do you suspect a thorough automobile check has long been overdue? If yes, make haste to get in touch with a reliable mileage interval service in Anchorage, AK. It’s always best to be on the safe side and never miss a service to maintain your car’s health.
Plus, if you ever plan on putting your car on the market, potential buyers will be grateful that you did your due diligence in keeping it in a healthy working condition.
