Now Servicing All Tesla Models

Drivers Severe Service Maintenance Schedules

Since driving requirements and lifestyles differ among motorists, manufacturers publish two auto maintenance schedules: the regular schedule and the severe service schedule. Which schedule should you follow?
Here are some questions to ask yourself:

Are most of your trips less than four miles?
Are most of your trips less than 10 miles in below-zero temps?
Are most of your trips off-highway?
Do you drive often in dusty areas?
Do you regularly tow a trailer or carry heavy loads around ?
Do you drive in very hot or very cold weather?

Think about your typical week. Do you live by your nearest freeway on-ramp and enjoy a non-stop commute to or ? Or, do you drive the neighborhood car pool in stop-and-go traffic on surface streets?

Let's suppose your owner's manual says the severe service oil change recommendation is 3,000 miles and the standard recommendation is 5,000 miles. You know that you need to change the oil somewhere between 3,000 and 5,000 miles. Analyze your driving patterns and weather and road conditions to determine which end of the spectrum you're closer to.

Why should motorists care about this? Normal condensation causes moisture accumulation in the engine oil. Short trips around or winter driving means that the engine doesn't heat up enough for the moisture to evaporate. The water in the oil turns to oil sludge that clogs up your engine and doesn't let the oil protect it adequately. That's why motorists need to change their oil more often - to clean the sludge out before it causes problems.

Carrying heavy loads (with or without a trailer) in nice summer weather causes your engine and transmission to run at higher temperatures and with more stress. The fluids will break down more quickly. Additives that clean and prevent corrosion will be depleted sooner. Air pollution and dust cause fluids to get dirty faster. Ditto for filters. All of these things can lead to premature wear and eventual repairs, not to mention your fuel efficiency. If you want some expert advice, talk with your adviser. We can help you restore your to good working order and help you know the best schedule to follow.

To learn more, please visit Mackert Automotive.

253-851-3307

Categories:

Blog
Mackert Automotive LLC is committed to ensuring effective communication and digital accessibility to all users. We are continually improving the user experience for everyone, and apply the relevant accessibility standards to achieve these goals. We welcome your feedback. Please call Mackert Automotive LLC (253) 851-3307 if you have any issues in accessing any area of our website.