Keeping up with vehicle maintenance is one of the best ways to make sure your car stays dependable for years to come. The 30/60/90 rule is a simple guideline that helps drivers stay on top of important services at key mileage intervals. Following this schedule can prevent breakdowns, save money on major repairs, and keep your vehicle performing at its best.
What the 30/60/90 Rule Means
The 30/60/90 rule refers to service intervals every 30,000 miles—specifically at 30,000, 60,000, and 90,000 miles. At each milestone, your car needs a series of inspections and replacements to address wear that naturally occurs over time. While exact requirements vary by make and model, the rule offers a clear framework for planning maintenance before problems arise.
Keep An Eye For These Milestones
Parts and fluids wear down at different rates. By 30,000 miles, many filters, fluids, and smaller components have seen enough use that they need to be replaced. At 60,000 miles, more critical systems like the transmission, timing components, or suspension may require attention. By 90,000 miles, major services often come due, such as timing belt replacement or spark plug changes.
Common Services at 30,000 Miles
The first major service interval is all about keeping your car’s basic systems clean and functioning properly. It often includes:
- Replacing the engine air filter and cabin air filter
- Flushing and replacing brake fluid
- Inspecting belts and hoses for wear
- Rotating tires and checking alignment
Common Services at 60,000 Miles
By the 60,000-mile mark, components have been through thousands of cycles. Typical services at this stage may include:
- Replacing the timing belt (if applicable)
- Flushing the transmission fluid
- Inspecting and servicing the cooling system
- Checking suspension components and steering systems
Common Services at 90,000 Miles
This milestone is usually the most comprehensive, addressing both wear and preventive replacement. It can include:
- Spark plug replacement
- Water pump inspection or replacement
- Replacing the serpentine belt
- Thorough inspection of the fuel system and injectors
Benefits of Following the 30/60/90 Rule
Sticking to this schedule offers several key benefits:
- Reliability – Reduces the risk of breakdowns and unexpected repairs.
- Performance – Keeps systems running efficiently.
- Resale value – Well-maintained vehicles tend to sell for more.
- Cost control – Preventive service is almost always cheaper than major repairs after a failure.
Adapting the Schedule to Your Driving Habits
Not every driver’s needs are the same. If you drive in extreme temperatures, do frequent towing, or spend a lot of time in stop-and-go traffic, you may need some services earlier than the 30,000-mile mark. Your owner’s manual and your technician’s recommendations can help fine-tune the schedule for your specific situation.
Keep Your Car Going Strong for the Long Haul
At SWT Total Car Care in Sioux Falls, SD, we help drivers get the most out of their vehicles by adhering to proven maintenance schedules, such as the 30/60/90 rule. Our team can inspect, service, and replace components at each milestone, making sure you stay ahead of wear and avoid costly repairs.
Schedule your next service today and enjoy the confidence that comes with a well-maintained vehicle.
