How Often Should You Service a Used Car? A Complete Guide

Used cars need love too. Just because a car isn’t brand new doesn’t mean it should be ignored. In fact, regular service is even more important for a used car Calgary. It helps your ride last longer, keeps you safe, and saves money in the long run.

But how often should you really service a used car?

Let’s break it down in a way that’s easy to follow.

Why Regular Service Matters

Used cars have more miles and wear than new ones. Parts start to age. Fluids break down. Things don’t work like they used to.

Regular maintenance keeps things in check. It helps catch small problems before they turn into big ones.

Skipping service might save money now. But you’ll probably pay more later. A neglected car is more likely to break down, and repairs can cost a lot.

Basic Rule: Every 5,000 to 7,500 Miles

Most car makers say to service a car every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. That’s a good general rule. It works for things like oil changes, tire checks, and brake checks.

But it’s not one-size-fits-all. Some cars need more care. Others can go a bit longer. It depends on the make, model, and how you drive it.

Check the Owner’s Manual

Even for a Calgary used car dealership, the owner’s manual is your best friend. It tells you exactly what the car needs and when it needs it.

If the manual is missing, you can often find it online. Just search the year, make, and model of your car.

Monthly or Every Few Weeks

Some checks are quick and easy. Do them every month or so:

• Check oil level
  

• Look at tire pressure
  

• Check lights and signals
  

• Make sure the brakes feel right
  

• Listen for weird sounds
  

These simple checks take just a few minutes but can stop big issues before they start.

Every 3,000 to 5,000 Miles

This is when you should:

• Change the oil (especially if the car’s older)
  

• Replace oil filter
  

• Check fluid levels (coolant, brake, power steering)
  

• Inspect tires and rotate them
  

• Check wipers and top off washer fluid
  

Older engines burn oil faster. Dirty oil can hurt the engine. Better to keep it clean than risk major damage.

Every 15,000 to 30,000 Miles

Here’s where you dig a bit deeper:

• Replace air filter
  

• Change fuel filter
  

• Inspect battery and cables
  

• Check brake pads
  

• Flush transmission fluid (if needed)
  

Brake pads wear down faster in city driving. Fuel filters keep dirt out of your engine. Keeping these fresh helps the whole car run better.

Every 60,000 to 100,000 Miles

Big stuff happens here:

• Replace timing belt or chain
  

• Change spark plugs
  

• Flush the radiator
  

• Inspect suspension
  

• Check the water pump
  

These parts don’t fail often, but when they do, it’s bad news. Replacing them before they break is smart.

What About High-Mileage Cars?

If your used car has 100,000+ miles, don’t panic. It can still last years if you take care of it.

You just need to be a little more careful. Oil changes should be more often. Keep an eye on leaks, weird sounds, or changes in how it drives.

Also, don't wait if you feel something’s wrong. Trust your gut. If the steering feels loose, or the engine feels rough, take it in.

Pay Attention to How You Drive

The way you drive affects how often your car needs service.

• Stop-and-go traffic wears brakes faster
  

• Short trips don’t let the engine warm up
  

• Fast driving burns more oil
  

• Towing or carrying heavy loads puts stress on the engine
  

If you drive hard, service your car more often. If you’re gentle, you might stretch the time a little.

Signs Your Car Needs Service

Even if you’re not tracking miles, your car will give you hints:

• Warning lights on the dashboard
  

• Strange smells or noises
  

• It takes longer to start
  

• Poor gas mileage
  

• Rough shifts or engine jerks
  

Don’t wait for these signs. But if they show up, act fast.

Can You Do It Yourself?

Some stuff is easy to do at home:

• Change the oil
  

• Replace filters
  

• Check tires
  

• Top off fluids
  

But other things are better left to a shop. Don’t mess with brakes or the engine if you’re not sure what you’re doing.

Final Thoughts

Used cars can run strong for years. But only if you take care of them.

Stick to a simple plan:

• Monthly checks
  

• Oil change every 3,000 to 5,000 miles
  

• Deep service every 15,000+ miles
  

• Replace big parts before they break
  
  

Don’t wait until it’s too late. A little time and money now can save a lot later.

If you’re not sure what to do, ask a mechanic. It’s better to ask questions than make a mistake.

Just treat your used car like it’s brand new. It’ll pay you back by staying on the road longer.