30k Mile Maintenance Checklist
A comprehensive 30,000-mile car maintenance checklist to ensure vehicle longevity, safety, and peak performance through detailed inspections and fluid services.
Overview
Summary and key details for this checklist.
The 30,000-mile mark is often considered the first 'major' service for modern vehicles. While early oil changes are routine, this interval introduces deeper inspections of the cooling system, drivetrain, and suspension components to ensure the vehicle is aging as expected.
For a DIY enthusiast, this checklist typically takes 3 to 5 hours depending on experience and tool availability. A professional shop can usually complete these tasks in 2 to 3 hours using a hydraulic lift and specialized diagnostic equipment.
Printable Checklist
A clean, scannable checklist view. (You can export/print from the sidebar.)
| Item | Priority | Who | Time | What to check (Pass/Fail) | If failed (Next step) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Oil & Filter | Required | Shop/DIY | 30-45 min | Oil level at 'Full'; no leaks at plug | Change oil and replace filter |
| Engine Air Filter | Required | DIY | 5-10 min | Filter media is white/grey, no debris | Replace with new filter |
| Cabin Air Filter | Recommended | DIY | 10-20 min | No moldy smell; filter is clean | Replace filter; clean housing |
| Tire Rotation | Required | Shop/DIY | 20-30 min | Even wear across all four tires | Rotate tires; check alignment |
| Brake Pad Thickness | Required | Shop/DIY | 15 min | Pads > 3mm thickness | Schedule brake pad replacement |
| Brake Fluid Level | Required | DIY | 5 min | Level between Min/Max; clear color | Top off or flush if dark/dirty |
| Coolant Level/Condition | Required | DIY | 5 min | Level in reservoir is correct | Top off with correct OEM coolant |
| Tire Pressure (PSI) | Required | DIY | 10 min | Matches door jamb sticker (cold) | Adjust pressure; check for leaks |
| Battery Terminals | Recommended | DIY | 5 min | No corrosion or white powder | Clean with wire brush/solution |
| Wiper Blades | Recommended | DIY | 5 min | No streaking or torn rubber | Replace wiper inserts or blades |
| Serpentine Belt | Required | Shop/DIY | 10 min | No cracks, fraying, or glazing | Replace belt immediately |
| Transmission Fluid | Recommended | Shop/DIY | 10 min | Correct level; no burnt smell | Consult manual for service/flush |
| Suspension Boots | Required | Shop | 15 min | No tears in CV boots or ball joints | Replace damaged boots/joints |
| Exhaust System | Recommended | Shop/DIY | 10 min | No holes, heavy rust, or rattling | Repair leaks or replace hangers |
| Exterior Lights | Required | DIY | 5 min | All bulbs (brake, turn, head) work | Replace burnt-out bulbs |
| Fuel System Inspection | Recommended | Shop | 15 min | No visible leaks or fuel odors | Inspect lines and connections |
| Steering Linkage | Required | Shop | 15 min | No excessive play or loose boots | Tighten or replace components |
| Spare Tire Pressure | Optional | DIY | 5 min | Inflated to sidewall max PSI | Inflate to proper pressure |
| Drive Shaft Boots | Required | Shop | 10 min | No grease leakage or cracks | Replace boot or assembly |
| Parking Brake | Required | DIY | 5 min | Holds vehicle on an incline | Adjust cable or service rear brakes |
Use this table as a workflow guide. Start with the 'Required' items first to ensure the vehicle is safe and mechanically sound before moving to 'Recommended' or 'Optional' tasks.
Check off each item as you complete it. If an item fails the check, refer to the 'If failed' column for the immediate next step. Keep this record in your glovebox for future resale value.
Notes
Extra context, cautions, and helpful tips.
After completing your 30,000-mile service, it is vital to document your work and dispose of materials responsibly to protect both your vehicle's value and the environment.
- Record the date and exact mileage in your service log.
- Keep receipts for all parts and fluids purchased for warranty proof.
- Take used motor oil and filters to a certified recycling center.
- Reset the 'Maintenance Required' light on your dashboard.
- Re-check fluid levels after the first 50 miles of driving.
- Check wheel lug nut torque if tires were rotated.
- Note any 'watch items' like thinning brake pads for the 35k check.
- Browse similar checklists for 60k miles or Tire Maintenance.
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FAQ
Common questions about this checklist.
Start from the complete car maintenance checklist, then narrow down by mileage, interval, and season.