Car maintenance checklist

What to check before you drive, every month, each season and on your maker’s schedule

Car maintenance is road safety. Your tires, brakes, lights and wipers decide whether you can stop, steer and see in time. When they fail, the risk reaches everyone around you.

This car maintenance checklist shows what to check at your mileage and on the calendar, from before every drive to every few years, plus the warning signs that mean stop now. It covers gas, hybrid and electric vehicles, and each item links to a plain guide.

Checklist by mileageChecklist by timeFree printable PDFChecklistService log

Why car maintenance is a road safety issue

1. Car maintenance

Small jobs, done on time

Tires, brakes, lights, wipers, fluids and sensors wear out slowly. Regular checks catch the wear before it turns into a failure.

2. Car safety

A car that can stop, steer and see

Good tires and brakes let you stop in time. Safety systems such as stability control and automatic emergency braking work through those same tires, brakes and clean sensors.

3. Road safety

Safer for everyone on the road

When a car fails, the danger reaches other drivers, passengers, people walking and biking, and road workers. Parts and cargo that fall off a vehicle become hazards for the next driver.

87 feet

longer to stop on a wet road at highway speed on tires worn to 4/32 inch, compared with new tires. [3]

48%

fewer single vehicle rollover crashes with electronic stability control, which brakes individual wheels to keep the car from sliding. [4]

200,000+

crashes over four years involved road debris, much of it parts and cargo that fell off vehicles. [5]

Sensors need care too. Toyota warns that dirt, bugs, ice, snow or a sticker in front of a camera or radar can affect its safety systems. [6] A few minutes of checks each month, plus service on schedule, keep all of these parts working for you and for everyone who shares the road with you.

Car maintenance checklist by mileage

Interactive checklist

What does your car need at this mileage?

Pick your vehicle type, then slide to your odometer reading. You will see what is due now, what is coming up and which guides explain each job.

Intervals are typical figures from AAA, NHTSA and published automaker schedules. Your owner's manual and oil life reminder come first. Short trips, extreme heat or cold, dust and towing call for the shorter schedule in your manual.

Free printable checklist (PDF)ChecklistService log
Where these intervals come from

    Questions about the mileage checklist

    What are the 30,000, 60,000 and 90,000 mile services?

    They are common milestones, not fixed rules. AAA lists brake fluid, transmission fluid and coolant at about every 2 years or 30,000 miles. [13] Kelley Blue Book says timing belts are often replaced between 60,000 and 90,000 miles. [14] Shops often sell packages named for these milestones. Compare any package with your owner’s manual before you pay, and ask what each item costs on its own.

    Do I go by miles or by time?

    Whichever comes first. AAA pairs each job with both a time and a mileage, such as every 3 months or 3,000 miles. [13] If you drive only a little, the time limit usually comes first, so use the checklist by time as well. Change the oil at least once a year even if you are under the mileage. [12]

    What does a car need around 100,000 miles?

    The same safety checks as always, plus a closer look at parts that age: hoses, belts, engine mounts, suspension and the cooling system. Check your manual for its 100,000 mile items. If the engine has a timing belt that has never been replaced, it may be overdue. Kelley Blue Book says timing belts are often replaced between 60,000 and 90,000 miles. [14]

    Do electric cars follow a mileage schedule?

    Yes, a shorter one. The Department of Energy says fully electric cars need less maintenance than gas cars, with no engine oil, fewer fluids and brakes that usually last longer. [15] Tire rotation is the main mileage item. Tesla calls for it every 6,250 miles on the Model 3, [16] and Chevrolet listed every 7,500 miles for the Bolt. [17] Pick Electric vehicle in the checklist above, or read our EV and hybrid maintenance guide.

    I bought a used car with no service records. Where do I start?

    Run a free recall check with the VIN at NHTSA.gov/recalls. [18] Ask the seller or dealer for any records they have. Then have a shop do a full inspection, and treat any service you cannot confirm as due, such as the oil and filter, air filters, brake fluid, coolant and, if the engine has one, the timing belt. Set the slider to the car’s mileage to see what else is coming up.

    Car maintenance checklist by time: monthly to yearly

    Interactive checklist

    What to check, and how often

    Choose your vehicle type, then pick how often. Each list shows what to check, who usually does it and which guide explains it. Do each job at the time shown or the mileage shown, whichever comes first.

    How often

    Intervals follow AAA's time based checklist and published automaker schedules. Your owner's manual and maintenance reminder come first. Short trips, extreme heat or cold, dust and towing call for the shorter schedule in your manual.

    Where these intervals come from

      Questions about the time based checklist

      What should I check before every drive?

      Take about a minute. Look at the tires, clear the windows, lights, mirrors and cameras, glance under the car for fresh drips and make sure the warning lights go out after you start the car. Then check that the pedals are clear and everyone is buckled. Pick Before every drive in the checklist above for details.

      How often should I check my tire pressure?

      Check all four tires and the spare at least once a month, when the tires are cold. [2] Use the pressure on the label in the driver’s door frame, not the number molded into the tire. AAA suggests checking weekly once cold weather sets in. [13] See how to use a tire pressure gauge.

      How often should I change my oil if I do not drive much?

      At least once a year, even if you have not reached the mileage limit. [12] Oil breaks down with time as well as miles. Many short trips also count as hard use, so check whether your manual’s tougher schedule applies to you. [12]

      How often should I check for recalls?

      At least twice a year. NHTSA suggests doing it when the clocks change. [18] Enter your 17 character VIN at NHTSA.gov/recalls. Recall repairs are free. See how to check for recalls and safety defects.

      How long do car batteries and wiper blades last?

      Most car batteries last 3 to 5 years. [19] Have yours tested before winter once it is a few years old, and see our guide to battery testers. Wiper blades usually need replacing every 6 to 12 months, or sooner if they streak or skip. [20]

      Stop driving now: warning signs that cannot wait

      A maintenance schedule handles slow wear. These signs mean something may already have failed. Find a safe place to stop, turn on your hazard lights and follow the steps below. Lights and steps differ by vehicle, so your owner’s manual has the final word.

      Comparison compiled by Safety Behind the Wheel Foundation

      Warning signs that mean stop or slow down now

      Warning signWhat it may meanWhat to do
      Red brake warning light after the parking brake is releasedLow brake fluid or a brake fault. Braking may be weakerPark in a safe place right away and call for service. If the ABS light is also on, do not drive. Have the car towed. [7]
      Red oil pressure lightThe engine may not be getting enough oilStop safely, turn off the engine and do not drive. [7]
      Engine temperature light, gauge in the red, or steam from under the hoodThe engine is overheatingPull over and turn off accessories. If you see steam, turn the engine off and wait. Never open a hot radiator cap. [8]
      Flashing check engine lightA severe engine misfireSlow down and get service as soon as possible. [9]
      Brake pedal sinks or feels soft, or smoke and a burning smell from one wheelA brake fluid leak, a brake fault or a stuck brakeStop when it is safe and have the car towed. [10]
      Bulge, deep cut or exposed cords on a tireDamage inside the tire. It can fail without warningDo not drive on it. Put on the spare or call for roadside help.
      Exhaust smell inside the car, or headache and dizziness while drivingAn exhaust leak letting in carbon monoxide, which has no smell or colorOpen the windows, stop driving and get fresh air. Have the exhaust checked. [11]

      Source: Based on owner’s manual guidance from Mazda and Honda, and guidance from EPA, the FTC and CDC. [7, 8, 9, 10, 11]

      Learn what every dashboard warning light means and how to pull over safely.

      Step by step guides

      Every part of this checklist has a full guide. They are grouped below by part of the car, with the best place to start marked in each group.

      Basic checks and tools

      Start with a simple routine for tires, brakes, lights and fluids. These guides also explain what a code reader can tell you and which warning signs mean a part needs replacing.

      Start hereVehicle maintenance for safety: tires, brakes, lights and warning signsSimple checks for tires, brakes, lights and dashboard warnings that help prevent crashesRead the guideThe monthly car safety check: a 10 minute walkaround, step by stepA simple routine for tires, lights, fluids and glass that catches problems earlyRead the guideDashboard warning lights: which ones mean stop now and which can waitRed and yellow dashboard lights decoded, with the right next step for each oneRead the guideCar fluids, battery, filters, belts and hoses: what to check yourselfCheck fluid levels yourself, leave replacement to a shop and jump a battery safelyRead the guideCar diagnostic scanners and inspection tools: what a code reader can and can’t tell youUse a code reader wisely and know which checks still need a gauge or a shopRead the guideBrake, steering and suspension parts: warning signs, quality replacements and installationSpot wear early, choose parts that fit and know what a proper repair includesRead the guideBattery testers and maintainers: how to test your battery and keep it ready for winterLearn to test a car battery, keep a parked car charged and jump start safelyRead the guideJump starters and jumper cables: choose and use them safely, even on hybrids and EVsWhere each clamp goes, why battery gas is dangerous and how to store a jump packRead the guideSeasonal car care: getting ready for winter, summer, rain and road tripsShort checklists for each season, plus a safe plan for loading and long tripsRead the guideElectric and hybrid car maintenance: what changes and what stays the sameWhat EV and hybrid owners still check, what they can skip and what is newRead the guideFinding a trustworthy repair shop: estimates, repair priorities and recordsHow to pick a shop, get written estimates, sort urgent repairs and keep recordsRead the guide

      Tires and wheels

      Tires are the only part of your car that touches the road. Learn how to check pressure and tread, choose replacements, tighten lug nuts and handle a flat.

      Start hereHow to use a tire pressure gauge: cold readings, the right number and a lasting routineHow to pick a gauge, take accurate cold readings and keep your gauge honestRead the guideHow to check your tires: pressure, tread, damage and repairsSet the right pressure, read tread wear and know which tire repairs are safeRead the guideTread depth gauges: how to measure tire wear, read the wear bars and spot uneven wearMeasure every groove, log the lowest reading and learn what wear patterns revealRead the guideTire pressure monitoring systems: direct vs. indirect, warning lights and TPMS limitsHow direct and indirect systems work, what they miss and how to keep yours workingRead the guideChoosing replacement tires: how to match size, load, speed rating, age and typeRead the sidewall code, check the date and pick a tire that fits your weatherRead the guideTorque wrenches and lug nuts: tighten them right, recheck them and keep wheels onChoose the right tools, follow the tightening pattern and catch a loose wheel earlyRead the guidePortable tire inflators: when to use one, where to stop and what air can’t fixChoose the right inflator, add air safely and know when a tire needs real repairRead the guideSpare tire, jack and wheel tools: know your spare and change a flat safelyFind your tools, lift the car safely and know the limits of a compact spareRead the guideEmergency tire repair kits: which flats they fix and what to tell the tire shopUse a sealant or plug kit safely and protect your tire pressure sensorsRead the guideDedicated winter tires: when they help, the snowflake symbol and why you fit all fourPick, fit, check and store winter tires, and learn what they cannot do on iceRead the guideTire age and the DOT code: how to tell when tires are too oldHow to read the date on your tires and know when age, not tread, means replacementRead the guideEV weight, tires and braking: what drivers should knowHow battery weight changes tire wear, stopping, crash forces and the way you driveRead the guide

      Lights, wipers and windows

      You need to see and be seen. Keep your lights working, your lenses clear and your windows clean in every season.

      Start hereHeadlight, brake light and turn signal repairs: checks, the right parts and headlight aimFind failed lamps, decide between a bulb and an assembly, and buy compliant partsRead the guideHeadlights, wipers and mirrors: how to see clearly and be seenKeep lights bright and aimed, glass clear and mirrors set to shrink blind spotsRead the guideHeadlight restoration supplies: when a hazy lens can be saved and when to replace itSort the damage on hazy headlights, pick a kit and check the beam after restoringRead the guideWiper blades and washer fluid: when to replace blades and which fluid to use in winterSpot worn blades, pick a fluid rated for your coldest days and store it safelyRead the guideCar defrosters and heated mirrors: how to clear every window and keep the system workingDefog glass fast, clear mirrors and cameras, skip risky shortcuts and fix failuresRead the guideSnow brush, ice scraper and shovel: how to choose them and clear your whole carPick the right winter tools, clear every window and sensor, and dig out safelyRead the guide

      Safety parts you can check

      Seat belts, head restraints and air bag warning lights all deserve a regular look. Check for open recalls, and be careful with aftermarket parts and cheap replacements.

      Start hereSeat belt hardware: how to check webbing, buckles and retractors, and when to replace themCheck every belt in minutes, care for it properly and know when parts need replacingRead the guideSeat belt and air bag checks: how to know they will protect youHow to check belts, buckles and air bag lights, and where each rider should sitRead the guideHead restraints and factory air bags: how to set them, check them and keep them workingSet your head restraint to cut whiplash risk and keep your air bag system readyRead the guideVehicle recalls and safety defects: how to check, fix and reportHow to check for open recalls, get free repairs and report safety defectsRead the guideAntilock brakes and electronic stability control: how they work and what the lights meanLearn to brake hard with ABS, read each warning light and keep both systems workingRead the guideAftermarket modifications and crash protection: what to check before you modify or buyHow lifts, bumpers, seats and tires can change how air bags and belts protect youRead the guideCounterfeit and substandard replacement air bags: a hidden risk in repaired carsHow fake inflators get into cars, the warning signs and how to check a car safelyRead the guideCar safety sensors and cameras: cleaning, warnings and calibrationKeep sensors clear, learn their limits and ask about calibration after repairsRead the guide

      Trailers, bikes and motorcycles

      If you tow a trailer or ride a bike, scooter or motorcycle, it needs its own checks before you head out.

      Start hereTrailer lights, reflectors and connector testers: how to keep every signal workingCheck each lamp and reflector, test the plug and fix common trailer wiring faultsRead the guideTrailer breakaway systems: how they work, how to test them and what state laws requireHook up the cable, test the switch and battery, and know the weight rulesRead the guideMotorcycle pre ride inspection: tires, brakes and maintenance guideHow to check tires, brakes, lights and fluids before every ride and know when to parkRead the guideBike and scooter brake, tire and chain checks: tools you need and when to see a mechanicBuild a small tool kit, run quick checks and spot the signs that mean stop ridingRead the guide

      Frequently asked questions

      How often should I service my car?

      Follow the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual, or your car’s maintenance reminder. As a rough guide, most engines need fresh oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles and at least once a year. [12] Use the manual’s tougher schedule if you make many short trips, drive in extreme heat, cold or dust, sit in stop and go traffic, or tow. [12] Check tires, lights, fluids and wipers yourself once a month.

      What should a car maintenance checklist include?

      Tires, brakes, lights, wipers and washer fluid, engine oil and other fluids, the battery, belts and hoses, air filters, steering and suspension, the exhaust system, seat belts and air bags, and open safety recalls. Electric cars add charging equipment, the 12 volt battery and battery cooling. Use the checklists by mileage and by time above, or read our full guide to vehicle maintenance for safety.

      Which car maintenance checks can I do myself?

      Most monthly checks: tire pressure and tread, lights, wiper blades, washer fluid, oil and coolant levels, battery cables and seat belts. Our monthly car safety check walks you through them in about 10 minutes. Leave brakes, steering, suspension, air bags, high voltage parts and anything you are unsure about to a qualified technician. The FTC recommends getting a written estimate that needs your approval before the shop goes over a set amount. [10] See how to find a repair shop you can trust.

      Is there a printable car maintenance checklist?

      Yes. Our free printable car maintenance checklist fits on one page, with a second page for a service log where you write down each service, the mileage and when the next one is due. Print it, keep it in the glove box or share it with family.

      ChecklistService log

      More to read

      Want to read more? Browse every vehicle safety and maintenance guide in our library, or see what to keep in your car emergency kit.

      Browse car care guidesRoadside emergencies and car emergency kit

      Sources and further reading

      1. 1NHTSA. Critical Reasons for Crashes Investigated in the National Motor Vehicle Crash Causation Survey (DOT HS 812 115). 2015. crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/…/812115
      2. 2NHTSA. Tires. nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/tires
      3. 3AAA Newsroom. Tread Lightly: Worn Tires Put Drivers at Risk. June 7, 2018. newsroom.aaa.com/…/tread-lightly-worn-tires-drivers
      4. 4NHTSA. Evaluation of Electronic Stability Control: FMVSS No. 126, an Update (DOT HS 813 749). October 2025. crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/…/813749
      5. 5AAA Newsroom. American drivers aren’t securing loads (AAA Foundation road debris study). August 11, 2016. newsroom.aaa.com/…/american-drivers-arent-securing-
      6. 6Toyota. Toyota Safety Sense Precautions. toyota.com/…/CFA_TSS_precautions.pdf
      7. 7Mazda. 2025 CX-5 owner’s manual, Stop Vehicle in Safe Place Immediately. mazdausa.com/…/08070301.html
      8. 8Honda owner’s manual. If the engine overheats. honda.ca/…/GUID-90619085-63C6-41D9-AA72-748
      9. 9U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. On board diagnostics (OBD) frequently asked questions for consumers (archived). webarchive.library.unt.edu/…/obd-faq.pdf
      10. 10Federal Trade Commission. Auto Repair Basics. consumer.ftc.gov/…/0211-auto-repair-basics
      11. 11Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Basics. cdc.gov/co/faqs.htm
      12. 12AAA. How Often Should You Change Engine Oil? aaa.com/…/how-often-should-you-change-engi
      13. 13AAA. Time Stamped Car Maintenance Checklist. aaa.com/…/time-stamped-car-maintenance-che
      14. 14Kelley Blue Book. Car Maintenance Guide. kbb.com/car-advice/maintenance-guide
      15. 15U.S. Department of Energy, Alternative Fuels Data Center. Maintenance and Safety of Electric Vehicles. afdc.energy.gov/vehicles/electric-maintenance
      16. 16Tesla. Model 3 Vehicle Service Intervals. service.tesla.com/…/GUID-A84FDD77-7A8C-42F6-9385-E3F
      17. 17InsideEVs. Report on the Chevrolet Bolt maintenance schedule. 2016. insideevs.com/…/chevrolet-bolt-requires-almost-n
      18. 18NHTSA. NHTSA Urges Everyone to Check Recalls During Vehicle Safety Recalls Week. March 4, 2024. nhtsa.gov/…/nhtsa-urges-everyone-check-recal
      19. 19AAA. How Long Do Car Batteries Last? aaa.com/…/how-long-do-car-batteries-last
      20. 20AAA, The Auto Club Group. When to Replace Your Windshield Wipers and Why It Matters. acg.aaa.com/…/when-to-replace-your-windshield-

      The two interactive checklists list their own sources under “Where these intervals come from.” Intervals are typical figures. Your owner’s manual comes first.

      These guides offer general education, not mechanical advice. Follow your owner’s manual, and see a qualified mechanic for brakes, steering, air bags or anything you are not sure about.

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