Drivers with a Ford truck they use for towing or hauling will have very different service needs than someone who owns a Ford sedan they use for getting to work and running errands. If you have unique circumstances, it’s always best to discuss with your technician how often you should bring your vehicle in for service visits.

Generally speaking, it’s good to get either a tune-up about once a year or so. Your technician will check various systems and replace things like filters and spark plugs, improving your gas mileage and vehicle performance. Other service intervals can depend on various factors, like what model you have and how you use it.

• Oil change: every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, although synthetic oil may allow you to extend that number in certain cases.
• Brake pad change: every 20,000 to 40,000 miles or so, but this isn’t a hard and fast rule, so remain vigilant for any changes in performance while driving in Joliet, IL, that could indicate problems. Everyone brakes differently, and how often you’ll require service depends on your driving circumstances.
• Engine and cabin air filter replacement: every 15,000 miles.
• Timing belt replacement: every 80,000 miles or so, but it could be sooner or later than that, depending on various factors. It’s best to defer to your technician’s wisdom about exactly when to replace yours.
• Spark plug replacement: every 30,000 miles or so.
• Fluid flushes: these can include coolant, transmission, brake, or power steering fluid, and most need to be replaced every 30,000 to 50,000 miles to ensure proper performance.

You’ll get much smoother performance from your Ford with regular tire care that begins with tread and pressure checks to determine if your tires are within the ideal parameters. If your dashboard display lists individual tires’ pressure, this will be easy to check, but if not, you’ll want to conduct a manual check of pressure and tread every few months or so. Your owner's manual lists the correct pressure range for your tires.

Your tires should be rotated every 6,000 to 10,000 miles, but they may need it more often if you tow heavy loads. Rotations are advantageous because they help you avoid unevenly wearing your tires. You’ll avoid the flats and blowouts caused by uneven wear patches and get the most out of your tire investment by not having to replace them early.

Generally, you can get away with having these systems inspected once per year. It’s nice to time the inspection right before a big road trip or particularly challenging driving seasons in Morris, IL, like summer or winter. You’ll have extra peace of mind knowing your vehicle isn’t sending up any red flags that would concern your technician.

No one wants to break down during a vacation or on a cold winter morning. Your technician will be looking for any unusual drips or leaks that indicate trouble is looming, giving you time to address it before it causes you problems.