Preventative Auto Maintenance in Boulder, CO

A: Many manufacturers stopped recommending time and mileage intervals to replace transmission and differential fluids. They have gone to “inspect and replace as necessary”. Because replacing a transmission or differential is very costly, it’s very important to inspect and replace their fluids as needed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Some manufacturers have even gone to “lifetime fluids”. Never replacing these “lifetime fluids” can destroy the transmission, hence becoming self-fulfilling prophecy when it’s too costly to replace them!

A: Back in the 80s many vehicles stopped using timing chains and went to belts. Unlike steel chains that were supposed to last the life of the vehicle, the rubber and fiberglass belts’ recommended replacement interval was every 60,000 miles. Modern vehicles’ timing belts can now last up to 120,000. In addition, many vehicles have gone back to using chains again. When a timing belt breaks it can cause a lot of engine damage, so it’s important to keep up on the recommended replacement interval.

A: No, they don’t. Some manufacturers use different levels of services for their intervals so it’s important to find out exactly what is included in the service.