Fluids & Oil
Fluids lubricate, cool, and protect moving parts. Letting them run old or low is one of the fastest ways to wear out an engine or transmission early.
Engine Oil
Lubricates and cools internal engine parts, and carries away dirt and metal particles.
Every 6 months / 5,000–10,000 kmGear Oil / Transmission Fluid
Keeps the gearbox running smoothly and prevents metal-on-metal wear inside the transmission.
Every 2–4 years / 40,000–100,000 kmCoolant (Radiator Fluid)
Circulates through the engine to stop it overheating, and protects against corrosion inside the cooling system.
Every 2 years / 40,000 kmBrake Fluid
Transfers pressure from the pedal to the brakes — absorbs moisture over time, which can weaken braking.
Every 2 yearsPower Steering Fluid
Keeps steering light and responsive by feeding the power-assist system.
Every 2 years / as neededBelts & Filters
Belts keep engine components turning together, filters keep air and fuel clean. Both wear out silently until they suddenly don't work.
Timing Belt
Keeps the engine's valves and pistons perfectly in sync. If it snaps, it can cause serious engine damage.
Every 60,000–100,000 kmSerpentine / Drive Belt
Powers the alternator, A/C compressor, and power steering pump. Cracks or squeals as it wears.
Check yearly, replace ~80,000–100,000 kmEngine Air Filter
Stops dust and debris from entering the engine — a clogged filter reduces power and fuel efficiency.
Every 15,000–30,000 kmCabin Air Filter
Filters the air blown into the car's interior through the A/C and heater vents.
Every 15,000–25,000 kmFuel Filter
Traps dirt and rust particles before they reach the engine's fuel injectors.
Every 30,000–50,000 kmOther Essentials
The rest of the routine checklist — parts that affect safety directly, not just performance.
Spark Plugs
Ignite the fuel-air mixture in the engine — worn plugs cause misfires and poor fuel economy.
Every 30,000–100,000 km (varies by type)Brake Pads
Wear down with use — thin pads mean longer stopping distances and possible rotor damage.
Every 30,000–70,000 kmTires
Check pressure monthly, rotate to wear evenly, and replace once tread gets too low to grip safely.
Rotate every 10,000 kmBattery
Powers the starter and electronics — capacity fades with age, especially in hot climates.
Test yearly, replace ~3–5 yearsWiper Blades
Rubber hardens and cracks over time, leaving streaks that reduce visibility in rain.
Every 6–12 monthsQuick Comparison
Actual intervals depend on your car's make, model, and manufacturer guidelines — always check the owner's manual. These are general rule-of-thumb ranges.
| Item | Typical Interval |
|---|---|
| Engine Oil | 6 months / 5,000–10,000 km |
| Gear Oil | 2–4 years / 40,000–100,000 km |
| Coolant | 2 years / 40,000 km |
| Timing Belt | 60,000–100,000 km |
| Air Filter | 15,000–30,000 km |
| Brake Pads | 30,000–70,000 km |
| Battery | 3–5 years |