Basic Maintenance Tips

The best way to avoid costly repair bills is to properly maintain your vehicle. Simple and inexpensive services such as oil changes, tire rotations, and inspections can head off major problems. In our Atlanta Service Department we service most makes and models and our advisors and technicians will be pleased to answer any maintenance questions you may have.

The best source for a maintenance schedule for your vehicle is the owner’s manual because maintenance schedules do vary based on make and model. If you cannot locate your manual simply contact our service department and we can find the answer for you – even if it’s not a Honda. As an alternative, most manufacturer websites have owner’s manuals and maintenance schedules available online.

In addition to following the published schedule it is important to perform these periodic checks: 

• Engine oil: Weekly or when you stop for gas. Add oil if the level is below the lower mark. Bring your car in for service if it is consistently losing oil.
• Engine coolant: Weekly or when you stop for gas. Check the reserve tank; don't remove the radiator cap - the fluid is hot and may gush out.
• Windshield washer fluid: Monthly. Frequent users should check each time they get gas.
• Automatic transmission fluid: Monthly.
• Brake fluid: Monthly. Low brake fluid could indicate a problem. Take your Honda to a dealer for service immediately.
• Clutch fluid (manual transmission only): Monthly
• Power steering fluid: Monthly
• Tires: Monthly. Check pressure. Check tread for uneven or excessive wear and foreign objects.
• Battery: Monthly. Check condition (level of fluid or color of the indicator). Check terminals for corrosion.
• Air conditioning: Weekly. Turn it on for a short time.
• Lights: Monthly. Check them all -- head, tail, parking, and brake lights, high-mount brake light, turn signals, back up and license plate lights. 

If your vehicle is losing fluids it could be a sign of a bigger potential problem and we recommend you bring it in to our service department for an inspection.

Also, your car will often tell you when something is going wrong. So if you notice something unusual – an odor, sound, or leak etc. – consult our troubleshooting guide to help pinpoint the possible problem.

If you notice any problem between scheduled maintenances we recommend bringing your car into our service department for an inspection. Addressing problems early can save money later:

Below is a general maintenance schedule:

Every 3000-5000 miles:   Replace engine oil and oil filter

Every 10,000 miles:        Rotate tires

                                       Lubricate all hinges, locks, and latches

                                       Inspect front and rear brakes

                                       Inspect tie rod ends, steering gear box and boots

                                       Inspect suspension components

                                       Inspect drive shaft boots

Every 15,000 miles:        Replace air cleaner element

Every 20,000 miles:        Check parking brake adjustment

                                       Inspect brake hoses and lines (including ABS)

                                       Inspect exhaust system

                                       Inspect fuel lines and connections

                                       Check all lights

                                       Inspect the underbody

Every 30,000 miles:        Inspect drive belt

                                       Replace dust and pollen filter

                                       Replace automatic transmission fluid (first change at

                                       60,000 miles)

Every 45,000 miles:        Replace brake fluid