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Read moreCar maintenance: when, how and expert tips
The experts at Complexe VW 440 present everything you need to know about vehicle maintenance.
Whether you want to learn more about monthly upkeep, annual service, or how mileage affects your vehicle's condition, we are here to help.
The experts at Complexe VW 440 present everything you need to know about vehicle maintenance.
Whether you want to learn more about monthly upkeep, annual service, or how mileage affects your vehicle's condition, we are here to help.
Overview
Car maintenance can be mainly broken down into monthly tasks and annual tasks. You should generally follow the recommendations in your vehicle's maintenance schedule.
At least once a year, you should replace the air filters and change the engine oil on your car. On average, annual car maintenance costs about $1,000.
Each month, also address any dashboard warning lights.
When should you do maintenance on your car?
Monthly maintenance
Some inspection and maintenance procedures should be performed about once a month. Although Volkswagen Canada recommends always following your vehicle's maintenance schedule, here are the main tasks to complete each month:
- Check tire pressure and tread wear
- Check fluid levels (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid)
- Address the maintenance indicated by dashboard warning lights, if any
Annual maintenance
At least once a year, there are several maintenance tasks you should complete to keep your vehicle in good condition. Here are the recommendations from your experts in Laval:
- Replace engine oil and filter
- Replace air filters (cabin and engine)
- Clean and lubricate your brakes and rotors, and replace pads if needed
- Rotate the tires
- Check the battery's condition
Maintenance by mileage
Although mileage intervals can vary according to your vehicle's service manual, if you drive a lot, it is often recommended to perform the annual services every six months, or even more frequently.
Ideally, you should consult the vehicle's maintenance schedule to learn how to maintain your car.
Car maintenance: the essential steps
Check fluid levels (oil, brake fluid, etc.)
Wait until the engine is off and has cooled since the last use. Then, under the hood of your car, check the levels of engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid.
Tire care
Monthly, make sure your tires are at the correct pressure (the pressure shown on the tire) and that they are not overly worn.
Annually, rotating the tires, meaning swapping the front and rear tires, helps create more even wear, since front tires typically wear faster than rear tires.
In Québec, seasonal tire changes are an excellent time to perform this rotation.
Inspect the brakes
Although a “soft pedal” and other symptoms of worn brakes can be noticed while driving, it is important to inspect your brakes at least once a year, even if your car seems to brake normally.
The key is to ensure the brake pads still have a reasonable thickness and to check the condition of the rotors.
Replace the filters
The oil filter as well as the cabin and engine air filters should be replaced at least once a year.
The oil filter, in particular, must always be replaced during the oil change so you do not contaminate the new oil.
Battery maintenance
How do you maintain a car battery? At least once a year, you should check the battery's condition using a multimeter, clean the terminals, and protect them from corrosion with products designed for that purpose.
Gas car vs. electric car maintenance: what are the differences?
How do you maintain an electric car? It is fairly simple. Electric vehicles offer an advantage in terms of maintenance cost and effort.
Electric motors mean you do not have to change engine oil or replace the engine air filter, and regenerative braking generally has positive effects on brake condition over the long term.
How much does car maintenance cost?
How much money should you plan for car maintenance? It depends on your car's model and the service provider you choose.
However, a 2025 Consumer Reports survey indicates an average of nearly $1,000 per year in maintenance costs, with entry-level models often below that.
Mistakes to avoid for proper car maintenance
It is important not to neglect oil changes. You should follow the manufacturer's recommendations for both oil grade and change intervals.
Among regular maintenance tasks, the oil change is the step that can have the most serious consequences if neglected.
Can you maintain a car yourself?
Yes, most car maintenance tasks can be carried out by you. However, make sure you know exactly what you are doing so you do not damage anything.
If in doubt, feel free to trust experts on the North Shore of Montreal to service your vehicle.
Tips to extend your car's lifespan
To extend your vehicle's lifespan, follow the maintenance schedule set by the manufacturer and do not hesitate to ask an automotive technician for advice if you notice an issue with your vehicle's behaviour or the sounds it produces.
For experts who know Volkswagen vehicles inside and out, visit Complexe VW 440 in Laval, your Volkswagen dealership on the North Shore of Montreal, near Montreal-North and Terrebonne.
You can take advantage of our financing solutions and our Volkswagen special offers in Laval to find your next vehicle.
In the meantime, here is a summary of the steps to maintain your vehicle:
| Monthly maintenance | Yearly maintenance | General tips |
|---|---|---|
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