Your car needs regular attention to stay reliable, safe and economical. But remembering what to check and when can feel overwhelming, especially with modern vehicles that hide most problems until they become serious. Skip an oil change or ignore worn brake pads, and you risk expensive repairs, breakdowns at the worst possible time, or even accidents. Most drivers understand that maintenance matters, yet many of us delay it until something actually goes wrong.
This guide provides a straightforward routine car maintenance checklist organised by mileage and time intervals. You’ll discover exactly what to inspect every month, what services your car needs at 5,000 km, 15,000 km, 30,000 km and beyond. We’ve included seasonal checks tailored for Australian conditions, a road trip checklist, and clear guidance on when to book a mechanic. Follow this schedule and you’ll extend your car’s lifespan, prevent costly breakdowns, and keep your vehicle running smoothly between scheduled services.
1. Protect your car with the right insurance
Maintenance keeps your car running, but comprehensive insurance protects you when things go wrong despite your best efforts. Your routine car maintenance checklist should start with checking that you have proper cover in place, because even a well-maintained vehicle can be damaged by accidents, theft, storms or hailstones. Before you invest time and money in servicing, make certain your insurance policy reflects how you actually use your car and covers the repairs you might need.
Make sure your cover matches how you use your car
You need different insurance if you drive for rideshare, deliveries or business purposes rather than private use only. Standard policies often exclude commercial activities, leaving you unprotected during paid trips. Review your policy documents to confirm your cover suits your driving habits, including any side work you’ve started since you first bought the policy. National Cover specialises in policies tailored for rideshare drivers, couriers, taxis and commercial fleets, so you’re never caught out when you need to claim.
Review your policy at each major service
Schedule an insurance review alongside your 15,000 km or annual service appointments. Your car’s value drops over time, you might add modifications, or your excess amount could be outdated. Checking your policy twice a year ensures you’re not paying for cover you no longer need or missing protection you now require.
Save on premiums with National Cover
National Cover offers competitive pricing backed by ASIC-licensed analysts who research the market daily. You’ll receive maximum coverage without overpaying, and our price-beat guarantee means we’ll match or beat legitimate quotes from competitors. Saving on premiums frees up budget for regular servicing and repairs.
Keep records and receipts for easier claims
Store all service invoices, receipts and maintenance logs in one place, either digitally or in your glovebox. Insurers process claims faster when you provide proof of regular upkeep, and comprehensive records demonstrate you’ve cared for your vehicle properly. Photographs of your car’s condition before any incident also support your claim if you need to make one.
Keeping detailed maintenance records helps your insurer assess claims quickly and accurately, reducing delays when you need repairs approved.
2. Checks every month or 1,000 km
Monthly inspections catch small problems before they escalate into breakdowns or expensive repairs. You don’t need a mechanic for these basic checks, and completing them takes less than fifteen minutes once you know what to look for. Your routine car maintenance checklist begins with these simple monthly tasks that prevent most common failures and keep your vehicle safe on Australian roads. Perform these checks at the start of each month or whenever you’ve driven roughly 1,000 kilometres since your last inspection.
Check engine oil, coolant and washer fluid
Park your car on level ground and wait at least five minutes after switching off the engine so fluids settle. Pull the oil dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, then check the level sits between the minimum and maximum marks. Top up if needed with the correct grade specified in your owner’s manual. Inspect the coolant reservoir when the engine is cold and ensure the fluid reaches the marked level. Check washer fluid and refill it so you can always clear dirt, bugs or salt spray from your windscreen.
Inspect tyres, wheels and steering feel
Walk around your car and examine each tyre for visible damage, bulges or embedded objects. Check tread depth using a twenty-cent coin; if the platypus bill shows fully, your tyres are dangerously worn. Measure tyre pressure with a gauge when tyres are cold, matching the pressures listed on your door jamb sticker. Incorrect pressure reduces fuel economy, shortens tyre life and affects handling. Notice any vibration or pulling when you drive, as these symptoms indicate alignment or balance issues that need attention.
Test lights, wipers, horn and safety gear
Switch on your headlights, indicators, brake lights and hazard lights, then walk around the car to confirm every bulb works. Replace any failed bulbs immediately because driving with faulty lights risks fines and accidents. Test your wipers across the windscreen and replace blades that streak, skip or tear the glass surface. Press your horn to verify it sounds clearly. Check that seatbelts retract properly and buckles click securely.
Listen, look and smell for early warning signs
Pay attention to unusual noises such as squealing brakes, grinding gears, clicking joints or rattling exhaust components. Spot any fluid puddles or stains beneath your car after it’s been parked overnight, as leaks indicate failing seals or damaged lines. Notice strange smells like burning rubber, oil, coolant or fuel inside or outside your vehicle. These sensory clues often reveal developing faults long before dashboard warnings appear.
Update your logbook and set reminders
Record each inspection in a physical logbook or smartphone app, noting the date, odometer reading and any issues discovered. Digital calendar reminders help you stay consistent with monthly checks, especially if you drive irregularly. Consistent records prove you’ve maintained your car properly, which supports insurance claims and resale value when the time comes to sell or upgrade your vehicle.
Tracking your monthly checks in writing creates a maintenance history that protects your investment and helps mechanics diagnose problems faster.
3. Service at 5,000–7,500 km
Your first scheduled service typically falls between 5,000 and 7,500 kilometres depending on your vehicle manufacturer’s specifications and your driving conditions. This service focuses on replacing consumable fluids and inspecting wear items that deteriorate during your car’s break-in period or normal use. Book this appointment with a qualified mechanic rather than attempting it yourself, as proper documentation maintains your warranty coverage and ensures professional inspection of critical components.
Change engine oil and filter
Fresh engine oil keeps your motor running smoothly by lubricating moving parts and preventing heat damage. Your mechanic drains the old oil, replaces the filter and refills with the correct grade specified in your owner’s manual. Synthetic oils last longer than conventional types but cost more upfront. Service intervals vary from 5,000 km for older vehicles or harsh conditions to 10,000 km for modern engines using quality synthetics.
Rotate tyres and check wheel alignment
Rotating your tyres extends their lifespan by evening out wear patterns across all four corners. Front tyres wear faster than rears on most vehicles due to steering and braking forces. Your mechanic moves tyres to different positions following the rotation pattern recommended for your car. Alignment checks prevent uneven wear and ensure your vehicle tracks straight without pulling to one side.
Inspect brakes, battery and drive belts
Mechanics examine brake pad thickness, rotor condition and brake fluid levels during this service. Battery terminals receive cleaning if corrosion appears, and voltage testing confirms the battery charges properly. Drive belts face inspection for cracks, fraying or looseness that signal approaching failure, though replacement rarely occurs this early unless damage exists.
Check underbody, exhaust and suspension
Lifting your car reveals problems invisible from above. Mechanics inspect the exhaust system for rust or loose components, scan suspension bushings for wear, and examine steering components for play. Road debris, corrosion and leaking fluids become apparent during underbody inspection.
Reset service indicators and review warranty
Your mechanic resets the service reminder light or indicator displayed on your dashboard after completing all tasks. Request printed records that document the service performed, parts replaced and any concerns noted. These records prove you’ve followed your manufacturer’s warranty requirements and support future insurance claims.
Keeping professional service records from qualified mechanics protects your warranty coverage and proves you’ve maintained your vehicle properly.
4. Service at 10,000–15,000 km
Your second major service occurs between 10,000 and 15,000 kilometres and builds on the earlier maintenance while addressing components that wear more slowly. This interval typically aligns with six months to one year of driving for most Australian motorists. Your mechanic performs deeper inspections during this service, examining parts that may not have shown wear at the first service but now require attention as your vehicle accumulates distance.
Replace engine air filter and cabin filter
Clean air filters protect your engine from dust and debris while keeping your cabin air fresh. Your mechanic removes the engine air filter and assesses whether dirt buildup restricts airflow, replacing it if contaminated. Blocked filters reduce fuel economy and engine performance. The cabin air filter removes pollen, dust and pollutants from air entering through your vents, and replacement improves air quality inside your car, particularly important if you suffer from allergies or drive on dusty roads.
Inspect brake pads, rotors and brake fluid
Brake components face significant stress and wear faster in city driving with frequent stops. Your mechanic measures remaining brake pad thickness and checks rotors for scoring, warping or excessive wear. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, reducing its effectiveness, so testing ensures the fluid maintains proper boiling point and condition. Catching worn pads early prevents rotor damage that costs considerably more to repair.
Check cooling system, hoses and radiator
Your cooling system prevents engine overheating by circulating coolant through the motor and radiator. Mechanics inspect rubber hoses for cracks, bulges or soft spots that indicate pending failure. Radiator fins receive cleaning if debris blocks airflow, and coolant concentration testing confirms adequate freeze and corrosion protection. Australian summer heat places enormous strain on cooling systems, making these checks vital.
Inspect steering, suspension and driveline
Steering and suspension components wear gradually through constant road impacts and turning forces. Your mechanic checks ball joints, tie rod ends and control arm bushings for play or deterioration. Driveline components including CV joints and universal joints face inspection for tears, leaks or excessive movement. Worn parts compromise handling and safety.
Review fuel economy and engine performance
Comparing your current fuel consumption against earlier records helps identify developing problems. Decreased economy often signals issues with sensors, filters or ignition components. Your mechanic uses diagnostic equipment to scan for stored fault codes that reveal hidden problems before they trigger dashboard warning lights.
Monitoring fuel economy between services helps you spot developing problems early, often before symptoms become obvious or expensive to repair.
5. Service at 30,000–45,000 km
Your routine car maintenance checklist reaches a significant milestone between 30,000 and 45,000 kilometres, where several major components require replacement or intensive servicing. This interval typically represents two to three years of driving for average motorists and involves deeper maintenance tasks that protect expensive components from premature failure. Your mechanic performs comprehensive inspections during this service, replacing parts that have reached the end of their designed service life regardless of whether they show obvious symptoms.
Flush and replace coolant if due
Most manufacturers recommend coolant replacement every 40,000 kilometres or two years, though long-life coolants may last longer. Your mechanic drains the old coolant completely, flushes the system to remove sediment and corrosion, then refills with fresh coolant mixed to the correct concentration. Degraded coolant loses its ability to prevent corrosion and maintain proper engine temperature, risking expensive overheating damage in Australian summer conditions.
Service automatic transmission if required
Automatic transmissions contain fluid that lubricates gears and operates hydraulic systems. Check your owner’s manual because some manufacturers specify transmission fluid changes at this interval, whilst others claim fluid lasts the vehicle’s lifetime. Replacing old fluid prevents transmission wear and maintains smooth gear changes and reliability.
Replace spark plugs and ignition components
Spark plugs wear gradually and affect fuel economy, engine smoothness and starting reliability. Your mechanic removes old plugs, inspects ignition coils and leads, then installs new plugs gapped to correct specifications. Modern iridium or platinum plugs last longer than traditional copper types.
Replacing spark plugs at recommended intervals maintains fuel efficiency and prevents misfires that damage catalytic converters, which cost thousands to replace.
Inspect and replace accessory belts
Serpentine belts and timing belts (if external) face inspection for cracks, glazing or fraying edges. Your mechanic measures belt tension and replaces any showing wear. Failed belts leave you stranded and potentially cause severe engine damage if timing components fail.
Deep clean interior, exterior and underbody
Professional detailing removes accumulated dirt, salt and grime that cause corrosion and deterioration. Your mechanic cleans underbody areas where mud traps moisture against metal surfaces, protecting your investment from rust damage common in coastal or rural Australian environments.
6. Service at 60,000–90,000 km
Your routine car maintenance checklist reaches another critical milestone between 60,000 and 90,000 kilometres, representing roughly four to six years of ownership for most Australian drivers. This service addresses major components that wear slowly but require replacement or intensive inspection at this stage. Several expensive repairs become due during this interval, particularly timing belts and suspension components that protect your engine and ensure safe handling. Your mechanic performs thorough diagnostics and replaces parts before they fail catastrophically.
Replace timing belt or timing chain components
Timing belts require replacement between 60,000 and 100,000 kilometres depending on your manufacturer’s specifications, whilst timing chains last longer but need periodic inspection. A failed timing belt causes immediate and catastrophic engine damage costing thousands to repair, making replacement at the recommended interval essential. Your mechanic replaces the belt along with tensioners and water pumps typically included in this service.
Inspect shocks, struts and suspension bushes
Suspension components deteriorate gradually through constant road impacts and weight bearing. Your mechanic examines shocks and struts for leaks or reduced damping, tests suspension bushes for cracking or perishing, and checks mounting points for corrosion. Worn suspension compromises handling, braking distances and tyre wear patterns.
Service differential and transfer case fluids
Four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive vehicles require differential fluid changes at this interval, along with transfer case servicing if equipped. These fluids lubricate gears under extreme pressure and temperatures. Your mechanic drains old fluid, inspects for metal particles indicating wear, then refills with manufacturer-specified lubricants.
Check wheel bearings and driveline joints
Wheel bearings carry your vehicle’s weight whilst allowing wheels to spin freely. Your mechanic tests for looseness or grinding noises that signal bearing failure. Driveline joints including CV boots and universal joints face inspection for tears, leaks or excessive play.
Plan for ageing parts and future repairs
Components like alternators, starters and air conditioning compressors approach their expected lifespan at this mileage. Budget for potential replacements and discuss your mechanic’s observations about parts showing wear but not yet requiring immediate attention.
Planning financially for age-related repairs prevents unexpected breakdowns and allows you to schedule work during convenient times rather than emergencies.
7. Seasonal checks for Australian drivers
Australia’s diverse climate demands different maintenance approaches depending on your location and the time of year. Your routine car maintenance checklist should adapt to seasonal conditions that stress different vehicle systems throughout the year. Coastal humidity, outback dust, alpine snow and tropical storms each create unique challenges that accelerate wear on specific components. Adjusting your inspection schedule and preparation tasks to match regional weather patterns prevents breakdowns during extreme conditions and extends your vehicle’s lifespan.
Prepare your car for summer heat
Summer temperatures exceeding forty degrees stress your cooling system, battery and tyres. Check coolant levels weekly during heatwaves and inspect hoses for heat damage or brittleness. Test your battery because extreme heat accelerates internal corrosion and fluid evaporation, leading to sudden failures. Increase tyre pressure checks to twice monthly since hot roads and air temperatures cause pressure fluctuations that affect handling and fuel economy.
Get ready for wet season and storms
Heavy rain and flooding require functioning wipers, proper tyre tread and clear drainage channels. Replace wiper blades before the wet season begins and verify your windscreen washer system works perfectly. Clear leaves and debris from bonnet drainage points and door seals to prevent water intrusion and rust formation. Check that your lights work correctly because visibility drops dramatically during storms.
Adjust for cold mornings and alpine trips
Cold weather thickens engine oil and reduces battery cranking power and tyre grip. Switch to lower-viscosity oil if you regularly drive in freezing conditions. Carry emergency supplies including blankets, torches and warm clothing when travelling through alpine areas during winter months.
Protect your car from dust, dirt and corrosion
Dusty conditions clog air filters and accelerate engine wear through contaminated oil. Replace engine air filters more frequently if you drive on unsealed roads regularly. Wash your car monthly to remove salt, mud and corrosive materials that accelerate rust formation, particularly underneath where you cannot see damage developing.
Store your car safely if you drive less
Cars driven infrequently face flat batteries, seized brakes and deteriorating seals. Start your vehicle weekly and drive for at least fifteen minutes to maintain battery charge and circulate fluids. Consider a trickle charger if you leave your car parked for extended periods.
Regular short drives keep batteries charged and prevent brake components from seizing during extended storage periods.
8. Before a road trip checklist
Long trips place extra demands on your vehicle beyond daily commuting, particularly across Australia’s vast distances and remote regions. Your routine car maintenance checklist becomes even more important before embarking on extended journeys where breakdowns mean isolation and expensive recovery costs. Complete these checks at least one week before departure so you have time to address any problems discovered during inspection without delaying your travel plans.
Inspect tyres, fluids and cooling system
Check tyre pressure and tread depth on all four tyres plus your spare, increasing pressure slightly if you’re carrying extra weight. Top up engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and windscreen washer fluid to maximum levels. Inspect cooling system hoses for softness or cracks that might fail under sustained highway speeds and heat.
Check lights, wipers and glass
Test every light on your vehicle including headlights, indicators, brake lights and number plate illumination. Replace worn wiper blades and fill your washer reservoir completely. Repair any windscreen chips before they spread across the glass during long-distance driving.
Pack tools, spares and emergency gear
Carry a spare tyre, jack, wheel brace and tyre pressure gauge. Include jumper leads, basic tools, duct tape and cable ties for roadside repairs. Pack water, snacks, a first aid kit, torch and blankets for emergencies in remote areas.
Plan fuel, rest and charging stops
Map fuel stations along your route, particularly through outback regions where services are sparse. Schedule rest breaks every two hours to maintain alertness. Electric vehicle drivers must plan charging stops carefully given Australia’s limited infrastructure outside major cities.
Check insurance and roadside assistance
Verify your insurance covers interstate travel and remote areas before departure. Confirm your roadside assistance membership remains current and understand coverage limits for towing distances in rural locations.
Confirming your roadside assistance coverage before long trips prevents nasty surprises when you need help in remote areas with expensive recovery distances.
9. When to see a mechanic
Your routine car maintenance checklist helps you manage regular upkeep, but certain situations demand professional attention immediately rather than waiting for scheduled service intervals. Recognising warning signs early prevents minor issues from becoming dangerous or expensive repairs. Modern vehicles contain complex systems and electronics that require specialised diagnostic equipment and training beyond basic DIY maintenance. Knowing when to seek professional help protects your safety, preserves your warranty coverage and ultimately saves you money by addressing problems before they cause secondary damage to related components.
Watch for dashboard warning lights
Dashboard warning lights signal problems detected by your car’s onboard computers. Illuminated check engine, brake or oil pressure lights require immediate professional diagnosis because they indicate serious faults that could damage your vehicle or compromise safety. Flashing warning lights demand urgent attention, often meaning you should stop driving and arrange towing to prevent catastrophic failure.
Notice changes in noise, feel or smell
Strange sounds like grinding brakes, knocking engines or whining transmissions indicate mechanical problems needing diagnosis. Unusual vibrations, pulling to one side or spongy brake pedals affect handling and safety. Burning smells or fuel odours warn of dangerous leaks or overheating components requiring immediate inspection.
Know which jobs you should not DIY
Avoid attempting repairs involving brake systems, steering components or airbags without proper training and equipment. Electrical diagnostics, timing belt replacements and transmission work demand specialist tools and expertise that prevent expensive mistakes.
Choose a trustworthy mechanic in Australia
Select mechanics with proper qualifications and good reputations verified through reviews and recommendations. Request written quotes before authorising work and ensure they use quality parts with warranties.
Talk to your insurer after major repairs
Contact National Cover when accidents or significant damage occur before authorising repairs. Your insurer guides you through claims processes and approved repairers, ensuring work meets standards and maintains your policy coverage.
Contacting your insurer before major repairs prevents claim rejections and ensures repairs meet insurance standards and warranty requirements.
Stay on top of maintenance
Following this routine car maintenance checklist protects your investment and prevents expensive breakdowns that disrupt your life. Regular inspections catch small problems early before they escalate into major repairs that leave you stranded or cost thousands to fix. You’ll enjoy better fuel economy, safer handling and longer vehicle lifespan when you maintain your car according to the schedules outlined above. Set calendar reminders for monthly checks and book services at the recommended mileage intervals, keeping detailed records of every inspection and repair.
Proper maintenance also supports your insurance coverage when you need to make claims. National Cover specialises in comprehensive motor insurance for private, rideshare, commercial and fleet vehicles across Australia. Get a competitive quote from National Cover today and protect your well-maintained car with insurance that matches your driving needs.
