Congratulations — you’ve graduated from taking care of a goldfish to caring for a car! Much like your goldfish, your car might end up down the drain if you don’t feed it properly. And that’s just too much sadness (and moolah) to bear.

That’s why KSL Cars created this car maintenance checklist in conjunction with Keys to Success so you can know how to keep your car and bank account afloat. Always refer to your manufacturer’s recommended service schedule, but knowing the whats and whens of car maintenance can keep you ahead of the expensive car repair game and ensure safe and smooth cruisin’. 

girl inspecting tire and hood of black car

Average car maintenance cost per year

The true price of a car continues to add up even after new keys are in hand. When looking at ongoing costs, it's best to first create a car budget that works for you. Part of that budget should include going to your local mechanic or dealership for regular maintenance. 

Yearly upkeep can be anywhere from $200 to over $2,000 per year, depending on the make, model and age of your car. That may sound pricey, but putting off regular maintenance will be pricier in the long run. Stay on top of maintenance to save money and to make sure your car lives a long, happy life.

girl fixing under the hood of car

A beginner’s car maintenance checklist

Gas- and hybrid-powered vehicles will have more maintenance requirements than electric vehicles. Some of those requirements for gas/hybrid/EV are checked at routine safety and emissions inspections, but it’s best to understand what your particular car needs. Knowledge is horsepower, afterall. Check your manufacturer’s manual if you’re unsure.

Short-term 

These are the regulars that prevent long-term car problems. 

  • Oil change (gas/hybrid): This depends on your car’s age. Older cars may need an oil change every 3,000-5,000 miles — newer vehicles can get nearly 10,000 miles before needing an oil change
  • Oil and coolant levels (gas/hybrid/EV): Check before road trips or once a month (make sure engine is cool)
  • Tire pressure (gas/hybrid/EV): Check the air pressure in your tires once a month, before any road trips or major temperature shifts. Cars newer than 2008 will have a tire-pressure monitoring system to help you correctly adjust the tire pressure. 
  • Lights (gas/hybrid/EV): Headlights, turn signals, brake lights and interior lights can be checked at home once a month or more — yearly inspections also check these
  • Tire tread (gas/hybrid/EV): Check this before any road trip or before driving in winter conditions
  • Rotate tires (gas/hybrid/EV): Every six months or every 5,000-10,000 miles
  • Air filter (gas/hybrid/EV): Every 12,000 miles or once a year
  • Wax vehicle (gas/hybrid/EV): Once or twice a year to prevent paint corrosion and rust
  • High-voltage component inspection (hybrid/EV): Check manufacturer's manual
  • Vehicle software updates (hybrid/EV): As they are released

Long-term 

Budget ahead for these by asking your local mechanic for anticipated costs and checking your manufacturer’s schedule. That way you won’t have a massive bill at your yearly inspection because, “Oops, your car is overdue for everything!” 

  • Transmission fluid (gas/hybrid): Usually changed every couple years
  • Transfer case fluid (gas/hybrid): These are in four- and all-wheel drive vehicles, change every 20,000-30,000 miles
  • Coolant fluid exchange (gas/hybrid/EV): Usually every two years
  • Fuel filter (gas/hybrid): Every 24,000 miles or every two years
  • Shocks and struts (gas/hybrid): Every 50,000 miles depending on vehicle
  • Spark plugs (gas/hybrid): Check manual, usually somewhere between 30,000-100,000 miles
  • Serpentine belt (gas/hybrid): Replace every 60,000-100,000 miles
  • Front/rear differential (gas/hybrid/EV): Change around 30,000 miles
  • Brake pads (gas/hybrid/EV): As soon as they’re wearing down, every few years (less often in an EV)
  • Car key battery (gas/hybrid/EV): Every three to five years
  • Lithium-ion battery exchange (hybrid/EV): Replaced at 100,000-200,000 miles

Seasonal

These should be checked for functionality or replaced if needed each season.

  • Windshield wipers 
  • Battery life
  • Snow tires/all-season tires
  • Coolant/antifreeze levels

Feeling ready now for your first goldfish? Wait no, first car? Shop KSL Cars to find one that works for you and your budget. Browse our Resources page for more car buying tips.