A loose timeline for key car maintenance tasks

Taking care of your car pays off. In fact, regularly maintaining your vehicle results in it having a longer lifespan, providing better gas mileage, requiring fewer repairs and having a higher resale value.

Though the precise schedule for your vehicle’s maintenance tasks depends on its make and model (check your owner’s manual for specifics), here’s a rough guideline indicating approximately when to perform them.

Every 3,000 miles or monthly.
Inspect the air pressure in and overall condition of your tires, including the spare.

Every 3,000 to 10,000 miles.
Replace the motor oil and oil filter.

Every 6,000 to 8,000 miles.
Rotate and balance your tires. This ensures that they won’t wear unevenly or prematurely. You should also inspect your brake discs and pads at this time.

Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles.
Change the air filters to improve air flow and engine performance. City drivers and those with seasonal allergies should replace them more frequently.

Every 60,000 to 100,000 miles.
Replace your timing belt. This engine component is made of rubber and can dry up, crack and break, causing your engine to fail.