Preventing Major Repairs
Here is a good guideline for regular maintenance for your vehicle:
Change oil every 3000 miles for convential oil or every 5000 miles for synthetic.
Windshield wiper Blades
When to change them: Every 6 to 12 months or anytime they are torn.
Battery
When to change it: Every 5 years. Also check for corrosion, and you should have your battery tested prior to every winter to make sure it will hold up over the winter.
Brake Pads
You should have your brakes checked, if they are pulsating or it is taking longer than usual to stop your vehicle, or if they are are making sounds when pressing on the brake pedal. Also it is strongly recommended to have your brakes checked every time you are doing any routine maintenance.
Accessory Drive Belt
When to change it: Every 50,000 miles or 4 years.
Replace if you see glazing or cracking.
Coolant
When to change it: Every 75,000 miles. It is recommended getting your coolant flushed every 2 years to keep your engine running at optimum performance and free of debris.
Air Filter for the Engine and Cabin Filter for inside the Vehicle.
When to change it: Every 12,000 miles.
Replace more often with commercial vehicles or if you are driving on country roads.
Tires
It is recommended that you rotate your tires every other oil change. If you do notice an uneven tread it might be a good idea to get an alignment and balance your tires. Replace your tires, if you notice they are unevenly worn inside or outside of the tread or if your tread is less than 3/32.
Spark Plugs
Replace based on manufacture suggestions
Worn spark plugs can cost you fuel mileage and performance issues.
AND ALWAYS FOLLOW MANUFACTURER SPECS AND MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE!!!!