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Car maintenance log for DIY drivers
A maintenance log is the cheapest car tool you'll own. It tells you what's due, proves care when you sell, and catches small problems before they get expensive. Here's what to track and a log you can copy.
Intervals below are common rules of thumb. Your owner's manual wins — check it for your exact car.
Monthly 10-minute check
- Tire pressure (cold), including the spare — use the door-jamb sticker, not the tire sidewall.
- Tread depth (penny test or gauge) and uneven wear.
- Engine oil level and color on the dipstick.
- Coolant, brake fluid, and washer fluid levels.
- All lights: headlights, brake lights, turn signals.
- Wiper blades streaking or chattering.
Typical service intervals
| Item | Common interval | DIY? |
|---|---|---|
| Engine oil + filter | 5,000–10,000 mi (synthetic) or per oil-life monitor | Yes |
| Tire rotation | 5,000–7,500 mi | Yes, with jack stands |
| Engine air filter | 15,000–30,000 mi | Yes, usually tool-free |
| Cabin air filter | 15,000–25,000 mi or yearly | Yes |
| Wiper blades | 6–12 months | Yes |
| Brake pads | Inspect at each rotation | Intermediate |
| Brake fluid | Every 2–3 years | Intermediate |
| Coolant | Per manual (often 5 yr / 100k mi on newer cars) | Intermediate |
| Battery | Test yearly after year 3 | Yes (free tests at many parts stores) |
Copy this service log
| Date | Odometer | Service | Parts / fluids (brand, part #) | Cost | Next due (mi/date) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Tips that make a log useful
- Write the odometer every time — it's how "next due" works.
- Record part numbers so the next purchase is one search.
- Keep receipts in one envelope or folder behind the log.
- Write down odd noises with the date and mileage; mechanics love that.
Same idea, for your house
If you like logs like this, the home maintenance checklist and the free fall home checklist do the same job for your home.
A printable Car Care Log pack is planned. For now, this page is free to print and use.