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Basic Car Maintenance Checklist: What Every Vehicle Owner Should Know
July 28, 2026 8 min readBy T&H Tire And Auto Service
Regular maintenance prevents expensive repairs. Here is a simple checklist of the maintenance tasks every Nashville driver should perform or have checked regularly.
Monthly: check your fluids and tire pressure
Once a month, pop the hood and check your engine oil level, coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. Also check your tire pressure with a gauge — proper inflation improves fuel economy and tire life. Most vehicles have a sticker inside the driver door showing the correct PSI for your tires.
Every 5,000-7,500 miles: oil and filter change
Oil is the lifeblood of your engine. Regular oil changes remove dirt and sludge that build up over time, keeping your engine running smoothly and extending its life. The interval depends on your oil type (conventional, synthetic blend, or full synthetic) and your driving habits — check your owner manual for the exact recommendation.
Every 10,000-15,000 miles: tire rotation
Rotating your tires every 10,000 to 15,000 miles promotes even wear and extends tire life. Front tires wear faster than rear tires because they handle steering and braking, so rotation keeps all four tires wearing at the same rate. Many tire shops include free rotations with your purchase.
Every 25,000-65,000 miles: brake inspection
Brake pads wear at different rates depending on your driving style and road conditions. Have your brakes inspected every 25,000 to 65,000 miles, or sooner if you hear squealing or grinding. Catching worn pads early prevents expensive rotor damage.
Every 30,000-60,000 miles: air filter replacement
Your engine air filter traps dust and debris before they reach the engine. A clogged filter reduces fuel economy and engine performance. Replacing it every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (or more often if you drive in dusty conditions) is a simple and inexpensive maintenance task.
Every 2-3 years: battery check
Car batteries typically last 3-5 years in Tennessee heat. Have your battery tested every 2-3 years to catch a failing battery before it leaves you stranded. A weak battery can also damage your alternator, so do not ignore warning signs like slow cranking or dim lights.
Every 2-3 years: coolant flush
Coolant breaks down over time and loses its ability to protect your engine from overheating and corrosion. A coolant flush every 2-3 years removes old coolant and replaces it with fresh fluid, keeping your cooling system healthy and preventing expensive engine damage.
Keep records and stay on schedule
The best maintenance is preventive maintenance. Keep records of all service performed, and follow your owner manual schedule. Regular maintenance costs less than emergency repairs and keeps your vehicle running reliably for years to come. Stop by T&H Tire And Auto Service and we will help you stay on top of your maintenance schedule.
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Questions & Answers
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions our technicians hear about car maintenance.
Monthly checks include tire pressure, engine oil level, coolant level, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid, and a quick visual inspection of all tires for damage or uneven wear.
Still have a question? Contact our team or give us a call and we will walk you through it.
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