90k Mile Maintenance Checklist
A comprehensive 90,000-mile maintenance checklist focusing on fluid longevity, brake safety, suspension integrity, and critical rubber component wear for high-mileage reliability.
Overview
Summary and key details for this checklist.
At 90,000 miles, many factory-installed fluids and rubber components are reaching their engineered limits. This service is more intensive than a standard oil change, focusing on deep-system health to prevent leaks and mechanical breakdowns. Expect a DIY session to take 3–6 hours depending on your experience, while a professional shop typically requires a full morning or afternoon to complete the full suite of inspections and replacements.
The primary goal of this checklist is to identify 'wear and tear' items that are often overlooked during 30k or 60k intervals, such as differential fluids, spark plugs, and suspension bushings that may have hardened over time.
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 min | Oil level and color; no leaks | Change oil and filter |
| Engine Air Filter | Required | DIY | 5 min | Filter is white/grey; no debris | Replace filter |
| Brake Fluid Condition | Required | Shop/DIY | 15 min | Clear/amber color; moisture <3% | Flush and bleed system |
| Coolant/Antifreeze | Required | Shop/DIY | 20 min | Correct level; no cloudiness | Flush and refill system |
| Serpentine Belt | Required | Shop/DIY | 10 min | No cracks, fraying, or glazing | Replace belt and tensioner |
| Tire Tread Depth | Required | DIY | 10 min | Depth > 4/32 inch; even wear | Replace tires; check alignment |
| Brake Pads & Rotors | Required | Shop/DIY | 30 min | Pads > 3mm; no rotor scoring | Replace pads and/or rotors |
| Spark Plugs | Recommended | Shop/DIY | 45 min | No heavy carbon or electrode wear | Replace all spark plugs |
| Transmission Fluid | Recommended | Shop | 45 min | Red/Pink color; no burnt smell | Service or flush transmission |
| Battery Terminals | Required | DIY | 10 min | No corrosion; tight connections | Clean with wire brush; tighten |
| Cabin Air Filter | Recommended | DIY | 10 min | No dust buildup or odors | Replace filter |
| Wiper Blades | Recommended | DIY | 5 min | Clean sweep; no rubber tearing | Replace blades |
| Suspension Bushings | Recommended | Shop | 20 min | No visible cracks or play | Replace control arms/bushings |
| CV Axle Boots | Required | Shop/DIY | 15 min | No tears or grease leakage | Replace CV axle or boot |
| Exhaust System | Optional | Shop/DIY | 15 min | No holes, heavy rust, or rattles | Patch or replace components |
| Differential Fluid | Recommended | Shop/DIY | 30 min | Fluid level at fill plug; no leaks | Drain and refill fluid |
| Power Steering Fluid | Recommended | DIY | 5 min | Level between Min/Max; no leaks | Top off or flush if dark |
| Exterior Lights | Required | DIY | 10 min | All bulbs functioning | Replace bulbs |
| Fuel Lines | Required | Shop | 15 min | No cracks, softness, or leaks | Replace damaged lines |
| Timing Belt (if equipped) | Required | Shop | 2+ hours | No cracks; check service history | Replace immediately (critical) |
Use the table above as your primary roadmap for the 90k service. Items marked as 'Required' are essential for safety and basic operation, while 'Recommended' items focus on long-term reliability and comfort.
Check off each item as you complete it. If you are performing this service yourself, keep receipts for all parts and fluids purchased to maintain your vehicle's service history for future resale.
Notes
Extra context, cautions, and helpful tips.
Completing your 90,000-mile service is a major win for your vehicle's longevity. Follow these final steps to ensure the job is fully closed out.
- Record the date and exact mileage in your service log.
- Reset the maintenance required light via the dashboard menu.
- Dispose of used oil and coolant at an authorized recycling center.
- Re-torque lug nuts after 50 miles if tires were removed.
- Check fluid levels again after one week of driving.
- Note any 'watch items' (e.g., thinning brake pads) for your next 5k checkup.
- Inspect the spare tire pressure while you have the tools out.
- Clean the engine bay to make future leak detection easier.
- Browse similar checklists like 100k Miles for upcoming needs.
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FAQ
Common questions about this checklist.
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