Maintenance list for next week's servicing

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I am taking my '99 Corolla in for its' maintenance servicing next week and want some input on my list. Are there any items I am missing?
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I recently changed the oil myself with Mobil 1 5w-30 and an OEM filter.
The car has 126,000 miles.
The list:
1.Change engine coolant
2.Change auto trans fluid
3.Replace spark plugs
4.Replace PCV valve
5.Inspect drive shaft boots, CV axles, and tie-rods.
 
For me it always depends on the car.
Some cars have inherent weakness areas that need to be looked into more regularly.

Saturns need PCV and throttle body cleaning a lot.
I found with my Maxima that the VIAS (variable intake runner) needed lubricating periodically or the butterfly would stick.

You get what I mean.
Everything else you've got covered.
 
Originally Posted By: bigmike
How about the brakes? Have you changed the brake fluid?


I have never changed the brake fluid; is it something that wears out? My Dad has owned numerous vehicles and has never flushed and refilled the brake lines. I guess I follow in his footsteps in this regard. However, I have wondered if I should perform this as a normal maintenance item.
 
Originally Posted By: Vikas
Timing belt or chain on that model?


I believe this engine has a chain. I replaced the main drive belt a couple years ago; it is still nice and tight with little wear.

I forgot to mention that I replaced the air filter when I changed the oil a month ago.
 
Last edited:
Originally Posted By: synthetic_crazy
Originally Posted By: bigmike
How about the brakes? Have you changed the brake fluid?


I have never changed the brake fluid; is it something that wears out? My Dad has owned numerous vehicles and has never flushed and refilled the brake lines. I guess I follow in his footsteps in this regard. However, I have wondered if I should perform this as a normal maintenance item.

I never thought about brake fluid either, until someone here explained that the fluid is always collecting water and then you brake system can rust. Either lines or calipers, etc...
So if you plan to keep the car a long time then changing the fluid can save on brake parts.
 
Originally Posted By: synthetic_crazy
Originally Posted By: bigmike
How about the brakes? Have you changed the brake fluid?


I have never changed the brake fluid; is it something that wears out? My Dad has owned numerous vehicles and has never flushed and refilled the brake lines. I guess I follow in his footsteps in this regard. However, I have wondered if I should perform this as a normal maintenance item.


It's a good idea to change it every 2-3 years. However, if you've had brake work done, the brake fluid might have been changed already so be sure to check any records. Otherwise, I'd recommend doing it.

BTW, most of the items on your list you could do yourself or with the help of someone at minimal cost. That decision is up to you if you want to tackle some of these things or take it somewhere.
 
fluids, PCV valve, spark plugs, and filters.
That's it, aside from any problems that might pop up.
The drive belt tensioners on those like to get weak and rattle sometimes.
They've gone thorugh 2 revisions.
 
Brake fluid for sure. Its hydroscopic, and absorbs water as it ages...reducing the boiling point significantly. This can lead to a spongy pedel, among other things...especially if you work the brakes a lot.

Power steering fluid is another good one. But instead of going through the hassle of a full flush, just get in the habit of using a turkey baster to suck the fluid out of the reservoir every oil change. Read the manual and find out the total system capacity, then you'll know how much progress you make with each reservoir drain and fill. On my car, I've done this since new...and the fluid is as fresh as day one. Note, once you get the system reasonably clean...it would be fine to only do this procedure every other oil change, or even every 3 changes depending on your interval. I like to at least remove have the system capacity every year and exchange with fresh fluid.
Not sure what type of fluid your Corolla takes, but IIRC Toyota uses ATF (at least they did in the past). Use a synthetic variety if you can that meets the ATF specs required.

At that mileage a fuel filter replacement wouldn't be a bad idea...assuming its a user serviceable item.
If there are any vacuum lines on the car, inspect them. They can age pretty quickly compared to other tubing under the hood, and you'll still find them on modern cars for various actuators and whatnot.

Also while you're under the car looking at the suspension, check out the swaybar endlinks if your car has any, and look at the swaybar bushings themselves.
 
Brake fluid (if using dot3, switch to dot4)
Lube hinges, hood release, and locks
Lube and test parking/e-brake cables
 
Brake fluid attracts moisture which can cause rust in your brake lines and other brake components. Should be changed every other year.
 
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