Not only does proper maintenance of your Toyota maximize performance, dependability, and safety, it can also help boost the resale value of your vehicle. The key is following Toyota’s recommended maintenance guidelines. Fortunately, Toyota’s guidelines are easy to follow, requiring primarily regular inspections and engine fluid service.
Toyota provides a detailed schedule for recommended service for all of its vehicles, and each model is different. But, in general, Toyota scheduled maintenance for all models is recommended at set intervals – either every 5,000 miles or every 6 months, whichever comes first. Here we’ll provide an outline of basic scheduled maintenance, and answer common questions about regularly servicing your vehicle.
Wha are the Benefits of Regular Service?
Regular service isn’t just important for proper performance of your Toyota. There are a number of financial benefits for owners. These benefits include:
- Maximum performance: Regular service helps your Toyota run better, and it increases the vehicle’s overall reliability. For instance, Toyota’s plan includes regular oil service. This is important because running your engine with old oil or low levels of oil can cause costly damage to the engine.
- Keep your repair bills down: Regular service is designed to prevent more costly repairs, which can develop if your vehicle isn’t properly cared for.
- Increased resale value: Regular service drives up the resale value of your vehicle, if you choose to sell it down the line.
- Maintaining your warranty: Toyota’s warranty requires drivers to have their vehicle regularly serviced. Thus, it’s important to maintain records for all services performed, including the date and mileage at the time of service, as well as a description of the services and parts repaired.
When Should I Service My Car
To maintain your warranty, you must follow your Toyota’s service schedule, which requires a check-in every 5,000 miles or every 6 months, whichever comes first. For instance, if you don’t drive 5,000 miles in six months, then you would opt for service nearing the six-month mark. On the other hand, if you’re someone who drives 5,000 miles or more in 6-months, you would need to visit a service center before your vehicle hits the 5,000-mile interval.
What Kind of Services Need to be Performed?
At each 5,000-mile or six-month interval, a range of services need to be completed by a professional. These services include fluid maintenance and inspections. At every interval, there are five points that need to be completed, including:
- Checking the driver’s floor mat for proper installation
- Inspecting and adjust fluid levels, including oil and brake fluid
- Inspecting your Toyota’s wiper blades
- Rotating tires
- Visually inspecting brake systems, including lining, drums, disks and pads
Every 18 months or 15,000 miles, though, a comprehensive inspection must be conducted. This includes an inspection of your vehicles ball joints and dust covers, brake lines and hoses, exhaust system, steering box, linkage and boots, and the radiator and condenser. Note: This listing just serves as an example. For a complete list, refer to your owner’s manual.
Finally, Toyota recommends that you use the correct oil. Some models, like the 2015 Toyota Corolla are certified for 0W-20 engine oil. Toyota recommends that 0W-20 certified vehicles have their oil changed every 10,000 miles or every 12 months. 5W-20 mineral oil can be used, but if 5W-20 oil is used, the oil should be replaced every 5,000 miles or six months, whichever comes first.
Additional Services for Special Driving Conditions
The standard service guidelines are for vehicles under normal driving circumstances, in normal temperatures, with proper road conditions. In special driving conditions, though, there are additional services that need to be performed every 5,000 miles or every six months. These driving conditions include: Driving on dirt or dusty roads, using your vehicle for towing, driving for short trips in below-freezing weather, and for vehicles that undergo extensive idling (like delivery drivers).
If you have questions about recommended service at Toyota of Cool Springs, contact the service department at our dealership. We’re here to answer any questions you have.
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