Congratulations, you just purchased your first vehicle! Owning a car or truck for the first time comes with excitement and a lot of responsibility. Many ask, “What do I need to know to maintain my vehicle?” Here’s everything you need to know about keeping your new vehicle running and looking good as a first-time owner.
Vehicle Maintenance Checklist
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Oil Change: Change your oil and oil filter according to the vehicle manufacturer's recommended interval. Most manufacturers recommend replacing your oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, and you should also change the oil filter every time you change the oil. Regular oil changes are the key to keeping your engine running properly and extending its life.
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Cabin and Engine Air Filters: The vehicle’s cabin and engine require clean air. It’s important to change your cabin air filter and engine air filter every 15,000 miles or at least once a year. The cabin air filter keeps the air you breathe inside your vehicle clean and comfortable, while the engine air filter removes dirt, dust, and debris that could damage your engine. The engine air filter should be replaced every 12,000 to 15,000 miles.
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Tire Pressure: Keep the correct air pressure in each tire, including the spare tire. If the TPMS (i.e., Tire Pressure Monitoring System) light on the dashboard is illuminated, this is a good indication that one or all the tires are under- or overinflated. A solid TPMS light indicates a tire pressure problem. If the TPMS light blinks, one of the sensors is not working correctly. You can find the correct PSI for your tires on a sticker inside the driver’s door or in the owner’s manual.
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Tire Rotation: Purchasing new tires can be expensive. By rotating your tires consistently, typically every 5,000 to 8,000 miles, you can help extend the life of your tires and save money. Your owner’s manual will help you determine the required service interval so you know exactly how often it needs to be done.
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Battery Service: Batteries can be damaged by the heat of summer and die in the cold of winter. The last thing you want is to be stranded because of a dead battery. Every time you have your vehicle serviced, have the battery checked. A mechanic will evaluate the battery to ensure it is performing well and determine whether or not it needs to be replaced.
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Wiper Blades: The ability to see clearly when driving during inclement weather depends on the vehicle's front and rear wiper blades' ability to clean the windshield. You should routinely inspect the vehicle’s wiper blades for cracks and tears in the squeegee and the frame for any broken parts. You should replace the wiper blades at least once a year, or sooner if they begin to squeak or leave streaks.
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Exterior and Interior Maintenance: Keeping dirt and grime off the exterior paint helps to protect the finish from unnecessary wear and fading. Regularly washing and waxing your vehicle will help preserve the paint and prevent rust. It’s just as important to vacuum and clean the interior of the car, as this helps to protect it from unnecessary wear. Plus, there’s nothing better than getting into a clean, shiny vehicle.
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Air Fresheners: It’s always nice to get into a vehicle that smells good. PUREFLOW® Cabin Air Fresheners fit discreetly into the pleats of the cabin air filter to provide a fresh aroma inside your car. They begin diffusing the scent when the HVAC system is turned on and give you 90 days of freshness. We offer six naturally inspired scents like New Car and Tropical Peach.
While owning a vehicle for the first time can be stressful, staying up on maintenance tasks can help keep it reliable, safe, and enjoyable to drive. Read your owner's manual for specific intervals and instructions, and keep a log of your service dates to stay organized. Now get out there and enjoy your new ride!
