Auto service providers offer a wide range of maintenance and repair services to help keep your vehicle safe, efficient and road-ready. Common services include:

• Oil changes and filter replacements

• Brake inspection and repair

• Tire rotation, balancing and replacement

• Battery testing and replacement

• Fluid checks and top-offs (coolant, transmission, brake fluid, etc.)

• Check engine light diagnostics

• Engine tune-ups

• Suspension and steering inspections

• Air conditioning and heating service

• Scheduled maintenance based on mileage (30k/60k/90k mile services)

Many shops offer service packages that bundle several of these tasks for convenience and value.

Most vehicles should be serviced every 6 months or 5,000 to 7,500 miles, whichever comes first — though this varies by vehicle type and driving habits.

Typical service intervals include:

• Oil and filter change: Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles

• Tire rotation: Every 6,000 to 8,000 miles

• Brake inspection: At least once per year

• Air filter replacement: Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles

• Spark plug replacement: Every 30,000 to 100,000 miles (varies by type)

Check your owner’s manual for manufacturer-specific guidelines.

A standard car service usually includes both preventive maintenance and inspections to catch early signs of wear. Most service packages include:

• Oil and oil filter change

• Air filter check or replacement

• Fluid level checks and top-offs (coolant, brake, windshield washer, etc.)

• Tire pressure check and rotation

• Brake system inspection

• Battery and charging system check

• Visual inspection of belts, hoses and lights

More comprehensive packages may also include cabin air filter replacement, alignment checks and diagnostic scans.

The cost to service a car ranges from $100 to $240* for standard maintenance, depending on the vehicle type, mileage and included services. Standard maintenance typically includes:

• Oil and oil filter change

• Top-up of essential fluids (e.g., brake fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, windshield washer)

• Brake check (pads, discs and fluid)

• Tire inspection (tread depth, pressure and overall condition)

• Lights and indicators check

• Battery condition check

• Wipers and windshield check

• Visual inspection of belts, hoses and suspension components

* According to JD Power. Pricing varies depending on your location, vehicle make/model and the level of service required. For a more accurate estimate, contact a professional in your area.

To choose a trustworthy mechanic or service center, consider:

• Certifications: Look for ASE-certified technicians or manufacturer-trained pros.

• Experience: Ask how long the shop has been in business and whether they specialize in your type of vehicle.

• Warranty: Choose a provider that offers a warranty on labor and parts.

• Transparent pricing: Reputable shops provide detailed estimates before doing any work.

• Customer reviews: Look for consistent praise on communication, fairness and service quality.

• Convenience: Consider services like online booking, shuttle rides or mobile maintenance.

Getting quotes from multiple pros for expensive repairs is also a smart move.

If your car is showing any of the following signs, it’s time to schedule a service visit:

• Dashboard warning lights (check engine, oil, brakes, battery, etc.)

• Unusual noises — grinding, squealing or knocking

• Decreased fuel efficiency

• Difficulty starting the engine

• Vibrations, pulling or poor handling while driving

• Leaking fluids under the vehicle

• Overdue mileage since your last service

Regular maintenance helps prevent larger, more expensive issues — and keeps your vehicle running at its best.