We are confident that our dealer will text or call us for scheduled maintenance. But when your warranty lapses, where do you go and what PMS services should you avail? Let me give you an idea.
List of Services to Include
Here is a list of standard PMS services for cars:
- Oil change – Every 5,000 to 10,000 Km
- Air filter change – Can be cleaned up to 3 times, replace when too dirty
- Spark Plug – When spark plugs are failing (look at your manual)
- Battery Check – Every 5,000 Km, replacement may be necessary or after 24 months
- Air Cabin Filter – May be cleaned for about 3 times before replacing
- ATF Change – May need replacement when the fluid gets too dark, read you manual as it indicates when to change
- Coolant Refill – Depending on your manual’s instructions
- Brake Fluid refill or change (you can see the level in the plastic tank under the hood)
- Tire air refill (this is done regularly)
You see, the list mostly relies on your car manual’s recommendations. Since you are out of casa, you are technically executing DIY for your vehicle’s maintenance.
A newly bought car is usually monitored by the dealer when it comes to preventive maintenance schedules. This is part of their service and of course, they will profit from it. But there is a time limit.
Usually, cars are covered only within the 3 years of purchase. Some models will have 5 years.
Is it Free?
I was confused before and thought that the service was free for the first 3 years. But actually, only the first year is covered. And mind you, the only free stuff is labor.
You need to pay for the supplies (this will vary depending on the brand of your car and its promos).
Is there a better option for the 2nd year? Yes, I opted to have the maintenance service outside of my dealer.
How Often
How often should I have car maintenance servicing? You may see the initial record that you have with the dealer. In the first few months, the service is required after 30 days or 1,000 Kilometers. The succeeding check up and services are usually every 3 months or intervals of 5,000 whichever comes first.
Rates
In the Philippines, the cost of regular PMS may start from Php 1,900 to Php 4,800 depending on package inclusions. You may initially request a quote from the mechanic who will perform the maintenance service. Cheaper options are usually available from special auto shops and gas stations.
Requirements
Some service providers may need to look at the records of your car. It may tell them about the history of maintenance, repairs and other details. The mechanic will also check the odometer to see the appropriate service to give.
You may need to request an appointment if there are necessary check ups that require a lot of time, say for example draining or changing the ATF for automatic transmissions.
Where to Get Service
Apart from the casa or dealer, you may also go to gasoline stations with service bays. Shell, Petron, Seaoil and Caltex offer oil change and maintenance services. I myself have been servicing my car’s servicing at Shell and Petron. They have good and affordable packages.
On the other hand, specialty auto shops also provide check up services for those without warranty. You may also request for a price quote from Motech and Rapide just to name a few.
Note that every car model and manufacturer has its own guide on what maintenance services are necessary and at what interval. You should always read the user’s manual for a more accurate instruction.
Some of them may indicate the need for a check up every thousand kilometers or every 3 to 6 months depending on what service is needed.
Free Check Up
Most gasoline stations offer an initial free check up and assessment of your car. You may even get discounts for oil change and lube products if you have a rewards card from them. On the other hand, auto shops may require a Php 350 to Php 650 check up fee for any vehicle type.