Basic Components and When They Should Be Serviced:

For more information about all of these Parts, and others, check out Parts of Your Car.

Automatic Transmission Fluid: Check fluid level with engine running and transmission in park. If low, add the type of automatic transmission fluid specified. For best performance, flush every two years or 24,000 miles.
Battery and Cables: Battery should be securely mounted and connection should be clean and corrosion free. The battery should be tested if over 3 years old and replaced if necessary.
Belts: Belts last about 30,000-40,000 miles. Typically the timing belt should be replaced every 60,000 to 90,000 miles depending on type of vehicle. Not doing so could cause serious engine damage. The water pump should be replaced at this time as well.
Brakes: Check the entire brake system every year. If you hear noises when braking or if the brakes feel different have them checked right away.
Cabin Air Filter: Replace annually, or more often in areas with heavy airborne contaminants or when heating or cooling efficiency is reduced.
Check Engine Light On: If the light comes on while driving or remains on, your vehicle may have a sensor problem and should be analyzed. If the light flashes, the condition is more severe and must be checked immediately.
Coolant (Antifreeze): Check level at reservoir. If low, add 50/50 mix of approved antifreeze and distilled water. Change coolant annually on most vehicles. Radiator hoses last about 5 years.
Engine Air Filter: Inspect filter at each oil change. Replace annually or when leaking, torn, water or oil soaked, dirty or showing other signs of wear.
Engine Oil and Filter: Check level with engine off at every fill up. For maximum engine life, change oil and filter every three months or 3,000 miles or as directed in your owner's manual.
Exhaust: Inspect for leaks, damage and broken supports or hangers if there is an unusual noise. Exhaust leaks can be dangerous and must be corrected.
Fuel Filter: Inspect filter at each oil change. Replace if restricted, water contaminated or once a year on cars with carburetors. On cars with fuel injection, replace every two years or 24,000 miles.
Hoses: Inspect hoses at each oil change and replace when leaking, brittle, cracked, rusted, swollen or restricted.
Power Steering Fluid: Check the fluid with the car warmed up. Add correct type of fluid if low, flush every two years.
Spark Plugs: Replace intervals range between 30,000 and 100,000 miles, depending on the vehicle and type of spark plug.
Steering and Suspension: Inspect system annually. Replace if leaking, damaged or loose mounting hardware is found. Symptoms of worn suspension include uneven tire wear and excessive bouncing after bumps.
Tire Inflation and Condition: Check the pressure of all tires, including the spare, at every oil change. Check the tread for uneven or irregular wear and cuts or bruises along the sidewalls. Inflate and maintain at recommended pressure. Replace if worn or damaged.
Wiper blades: Replace every six months or when cracked, cut., torn, streaking or chattering.