How to Maintain a Car at 5,000 Miles

After buying that new car, you'll drive it around like it's your full-time job. That 5,000-mile mark will arrive quicker than you think. Don't ignore your new baby; make sure she's running as smooth as that baby's... uh, as smooth as its new wax job.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Automotive Repair Manual
• Warranties
• Basic Auto Emergency Kits
• Car Creepers

1. Perform a tune-up.

2. Check the oil.

3. Replace spark plugs and wires as necessary.

4. Check coolant levels.

5. Inspect the belts.

6. Check the brake fluid.

7. Check tires for wear. Rotate as necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• If anything seems wrong at this early stage - a large drop in fuel efficiency, unusual use of oil or a tendency to overheat - bring the car back to the dealer for inspection. Your warranty should cover such problems.

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• Ask a Mechanic Online Now

on 11/22/2005 I have been gone for a year and my wife has had to take the car (Ford Focus) to the jiffy lube. That is the only maintenance done in the past year. The car has 49,000 miles. I went ahead and changed everything I possibly could, and I noticed a big, big difference in gas efficiency and performance. I changed spark plugs, plug wires, coolant hoses, trans filter, air filter, cabin filter, flushed the cooling system, wind shield wipers, oil change at 3,000 or 3 months, front brakes and rotors. I have come to think that 4 bangers are finicky cars. Neglect them and they will not perform.