A newly bought car is usually monitored by the dealer when it comes to preventive maintenance schedule. However, owners of out of warranty cars may be clueless on what services are needed. See the maintenance services that you should avail for your vehicle.
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 for a quote from the mechanic who will perform the maintenance service. Cheaper options are usually available from special auto shops and gas stations.
Services to Include
What should to include for a maintenance service without warranty? Here is a list of PMS services for cars without warranty coverage:
- Oil change – Every 5,000 to 10,000 Km
- Air filter change – Can be cleaned up to 3 times, replace when dirty
- Spark Plug – When spark plugs are failing
- Battery Check – Every 5,000 Km, replacement may be necessary 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; manuals indicate when to change
- Cooolant Refill
- Brake Fluid refill or change
- Tire air refill
Requirements
Some service providers may need to look at the record 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 for an appointment if there are necessary check ups that require a lot of time.
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.
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 types.