GM Maintenance Checklist

At Allen Tillery Auto in Hot Springs, AR, we understand that your vehicle is more than just a means of transportation—it's an investment in your lifestyle and safety. That's why we've put together this comprehensive guide to help you keep your Buick, Chevrolet, or GMC running smoothly for years to come. Regular maintenance isn't just about preventing breakdowns; it's about ensuring peak performance, maximizing fuel efficiency, and maintaining your vehicle's value.

Why Regular Maintenance Matters

Regular maintenance is the cornerstone of vehicle longevity and reliability. By staying on top of routine checks and services, you're not just avoiding costly repairs down the road—you're ensuring that every drive is as safe and enjoyable as the day you first got behind the wheel.

Consider this: a well-maintained vehicle can:

• Improve fuel efficiency by up to 10%
• Extend the life of your engine by thousands of miles
• Reduce the risk of unexpected breakdowns
• Maintain higher resale value

Essential Maintenance Tasks for Your Buick, Chevrolet, or GMC

• Engine Care: The Heart of Your Vehicle

  Your engine is the powerhouse of your vehicle, and keeping it in top condition is crucial. Here's what you need to focus on:

  1. Oil Changes: The lifeblood of your engine
     • For most modern Buick, Chevrolet, and GMC models, we recommend oil changes every 7,500 to 10,000 miles
     • Always use the grade of oil specified in your owner's manual
  2. Air Filter Replacement: Breathing easy
     • Check your air filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles
     • A clean air filter can improve fuel efficiency by up to 14%
  3. Spark Plug Inspection: Igniting performance
     • Most modern spark plugs last up to 100,000 miles
     • Regular inspections can prevent misfires and improve fuel economy


• Brake System:

  Your vehicle's brake system is its most critical safety feature. Don't overlook these crucial checks:

  1. Brake Pad Inspection:
     • Check brake pads every 12,000 miles or once a year
     • Replace when they're worn to 3-4 mm thickness
  2. Brake Fluid Checks:
     • Inspect brake fluid levels every 3 months
     • Replace brake fluid completely every 2 years or 24,000 miles
  3. Rotor Inspection:
     • Have rotors inspected with every brake pad replacement
     • Resurfacing or replacement may be necessary based on wear


• Tire Maintenance:

  Proper tire maintenance is essential for safety, fuel efficiency, and ride comfort:

  1. Tire Pressure Checks:
     • Check pressure monthly and before long trips
     • Maintain the pressure recommended in your owner's manual
  2. Tire Rotation:
     • Rotate tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles
     • This ensures even wear and extends tire life
  3. Wheel Alignment:
     • Check alignment annually or if you notice uneven tire wear
     • Proper alignment improves handling and fuel efficiency


• Fluid Checks:

  Regular fluid checks are quick, easy, and crucial for your vehicle's health:

  1. Coolant Levels:
     • Check coolant levels monthly
     • Flush and replace coolant every 30,000 miles or 2 years
  2. Transmission Fluid:
     • Check levels monthly
     • For most modern vehicles, transmission fluid should be replaced every 60,000 to 100,000 miles
  3. Power Steering Fluid:
     • Check monthly
     • Replace if it appears dark or smells burnt


• Battery Care:

  A healthy battery is essential for reliable starts and powering your vehicle's electrical systems:

  1. Battery Inspection:
     • Check for corrosion on terminals monthly
     • Clean terminals with a mixture of baking soda and water
  2. Load Test:
     • Have your battery load tested annually
     • Replace batteries that are more than 3-5 years old

Seasonal Maintenance: Preparing for the Elements

• Winter Readiness

  As temperatures drop, make sure your vehicle is prepared:

  • Test your battery: Cold weather puts extra strain on batteries
  • Check antifreeze levels and concentration
  • Install winter tires for improved traction
  • Replace wiper blades and top up washer fluid with a winter-grade solution


• Summer Preparation

  Hot weather brings its own set of challenges:

  • Check A/C performance and refrigerant levels
  • Inspect belts and hoses for cracks or wear
  • Test your cooling system for proper function
  • Consider a coolant flush if it's been more than two years

DIY vs. Professional Maintenance

While some maintenance tasks are perfect for DIY enthusiasts, others require professional expertise:

DIY-Friendly Tasks:

• Checking and topping up fluids
• Replacing air filters
• Changing wiper blades
• Checking tire pressure

Leave to the Pros:

• Transmission service
• Brake system repairs
• Engine diagnostics
• Major electrical system work

Creating Your Personalized Maintenance Schedule

Every vehicle is unique, and so should be its maintenance schedule. We recommend:

1. Start with your owner's manual recommendations
2. Consider your driving habits (city vs. highway, climate conditions)
3. Use a digital maintenance tracker or app to set reminders
4. Keep a detailed log of all services performed

Debunking Common Maintenance Myths

Let's clear up some misconceptions:

• Myth: Oil changes are needed every 3,000 miles Reality: Most modern vehicles can go 7,500 to 10,000 miles between changes
• Myth: Premium fuel improves performance in all vehicles Reality: Unless your vehicle requires it, premium fuel offers no benefit
• Myth: Maintenance at a dealership is always more expensive Reality: Dealerships often offer competitive pricing and specialized expertise

Your Partner in Vehicle Care

At Allen Tillery Auto, we're more than just your local Buick, Chevrolet, and GMC dealership—we're your partners in keeping your vehicle running at its best. Our factory-trained technicians use the latest diagnostic tools and genuine parts to ensure your vehicle receives the care it deserves.

Remember, regular maintenance isn't just about preventing problems—it's about enhancing your driving experience, ensuring safety, and protecting your investment. By following this comprehensive checklist and partnering with our expert service team, you're setting yourself up for years of worry-free driving in your Buick, Chevrolet, or GMC.