Hi folks,

I'm thinking about rewriting part of the FAQ to identify a minimum, bi-annual maintenance cycle. This would be for those who have already gone past their 3 year/ 36,000 mile warranty. My thinking is this should be something along this line:

FREQUENCY
- late spring
- late fall

Items:
- change oil and filter, 5W-30 in spring either 5W-30 or 0W-20 in fall
- change air filter
- clean throttle plate using any of these (list of safe cleaners)
- bottle of injector cleaner (list of safe products)
- check brakes, inner and outer for wear and rust
- check check tire pressure and wear
- SPRING: check alignment
- SPRING: new windshield wipers and RAIN-X treatment
- FALL: check dust covers
- FALL: install radiator or inlet blocks
- FALL: check block and pan heaters
- FALL: replenish non-freezing window washing fluid
- FALL: check safety equipment and flashlight (replace batteries!)

I'm thinking along the lines of a simple check-list that folks can do themselves or take to an independent shop. The list should shadow the Toyota check lists but identify specific, 3d party products and parts sources for the frugal.

This is a 'community' effort so I'm looking for suggestions for the update.

Thanks,
Bob Wilson

 

Fall: Clean and relubricate caliper slide pins.

Wayne

 

I would change the oil based only on mileage or in the case of a very limited use (stored) vehicle, once a year.