What are some typical things that cars routinely need to have maintained at 100,000 miles? (The vehicle in question is a 2006 Ford Escape SUV)
Some starter ideas:
Flush out the engine Flush out the coolant Flush out the brakes
Check brake pads/rotors Check all other fluids
Change spark plugs Change filter Change belts
I know it needs an oil change and tire rotation too.
Any other important things I am missing?
Posted by TomDavidson (Member # 124) on :
There is a service manual -- sometimes it's part of the owner's manual -- that was sold with your vehicle that includes a recommended schedule of services. Seriously.
Posted by MattP (Member # 10495) on :
For most vehicles you can just Google the info as well.
Posted by Wingracer (Member # 12293) on :
I don't know about the escape but Ford SUVs are pretty notorious for wearing out front end parts. Ball joints and tie-rod ends could need replacing if they haven't been already. Same with front wheel bearings if it has in the rotor style but being a 2006, it's probably a sealed hub so leave them alone unless there is a problem.
I do NOT recommend a flush of the transmission. If an automatic makes it 100k, leave it the hell alone. Having the pan dropped and the filter replaced is always a good idea but again, do NOT have it flushed.
Posted by Kwea (Member # 2199) on :
yeah, sometimes only the dirt and grip is holding the gears together
Posted by Nick (Member # 4311) on :
What Tom said is the best advice. Specifically addressing your points you listed:
Flushing the engine isn't needed. Just change your oil regularly.
Flushing your cooling system isn't needed either unless there was something that contaminated your cooling system like a blown head-gasket. Draining and filling your radiator per the maintenance schedule is all that's needed.
Flushing your brakes is only needed if the manufacturers call for it. A lot of german makes recommend it. Honda does as well. It's only for moisture absorption, it's a time-based thing, not mileage.
Rotating the tires and checking brake linings and rotor/drum condition should be done every 5k or so. Fluids should be checked every oil change. The rest should be listed in your maintenance schedule.
In short, don't let anybody sell you anything the manufacturer didn't recommend and steal your hard-earned dough.
I see that all the time. I'm a professional mechanic at a dealership.