The truth about maintenance, and what the manufactures tell you vs what you need to know

Dave talks about the hard truth about manufacturers maintenance schedules. It makes sense for the manufacturer not the owner. Listen and share with your family. Maintenance is always cheaper than repair!

[@typhoon320i]

A valuable piece of information I learned in school as a mechanic was "lifetime fluid means as long as the powertrain warranty"

[@jeffkoe310]

lol but sad.

[@ryans413]

Lifetime fluid is a bunch of BS every fluid breaks down overtime

[@user-mf5to8mb3h]

What lifetime warranty really means is that you will be working on it for the rest of your life if you cheap out on maintenance.

[@PR0XYL1NK]

same rules go for lifetime snapchats lol

[@flailios]

What happens after a "lifetime" if we listen to the dealer? It dies, true story. :-)

[@simontracey3920]

People seem to think vehicles can last for ever with no maintenance and get annoyed when it fails. Never ceases to amaze me.😮

[@jimbothegymbro7086]

never underestimate idiots, whenever something is made idiot proof the idiots get dumber

[@mplslawnguy3389]

Or they’re the “new vehicle every 3-4 years” type. Buying a used vehicle is scary. There are so many used vehicles for sale that have been neglected. Even those “certified” used cars. That “certified” label is often just BS. A friend just bought one and the engine blew the first week.

[@lynxstarautomotive208]

Well you can blame our industry for that. It has slowly removed the maintenance expectations out of vehicle ownership. We don’t grease anything anymore. We are using less and less serviceable components (most newer cars don’t even use a fuel filter). We are extending basic service intervals. Hell many late model vehicles don’t even bring a basic dipstick tube to check fluid level/condition. And when 💩 does hit the fan, consumers are taught to discard, and replace the entire vehicle. 🤷‍♂️

[@mplslawnguy3389]

@@lynxstarautomotive208 It blew my mind when I heard some newer German cars (can't remember the make) don't have an oil dipstick. So you're basically relying on the computer to check your oil level, and forget about doing your own oil changes. Sickening.

[@MrRGM10]

Toyota fans love that statement hard facts

[@syken8695]

My family gets ticked off on me for constantly doing maintenance on a car. ‘It’s too often!’ - they say. Well personally, I don’t think it’s too often. I change transmission fluid every 30000 miles, I do oil change every 5000 miles, I change cabin and engine air filters every 7500 miles, replace spark plugs and ignition coils every 100k miles, top up all fluids. I inspect brakes once in a while, add air to my tires. I go to a shop to repair the vehicle because I dont have a lift to raise the car in the air. For something small, I do my own repairs. For something bigger like the struts and shocks or tire swap I go to the shop. But I keep the vehicle in check all the time. It’s my tool to get everywhere so I need to take good care of it. You mess it up, it’s on you when the technician gives you a huge repair bill. When I do repairs, I read and watch the videos multiple times to make sure I remember how to do the repair. Because sometimes, when your vehicle breaks down, you’re on your own, so that’s that. And in order to save money, in my case, I must learn how to do simple repairs myself, because I don’t want to be a clueless fool and panic when the car breaks down. I had own my vehicle for 7 years now, when I bought it used. It had its share of problems - AC stopped working, back brakes blew up, PCV valve broke down, Suspension parts broke down, front brakes were 100% gone and I was still driving without knowing, when I didn’t check at first, camshaft and crankshaft sensors were replaced, MAF sensor replaced, Rear wheel bearings replaced, and many more including the regular maintenance like oil changes and stuff. You got a car, take care of it so it can take care of you.

[@TENNOM]

In the US I need it for transport, to and from work, groceries, in case of emergency. I’m a single guy so I need my ride to be reliable and in shape, therefore, I take care of it

[@ryans413]

My cars 20 years old and it’s showing it’s age technology wise but it still runs and drives the transmission is original the engine is original. Coolant been changed every 100,000 it’s the Dexcool that everyone hates I’ve had absolutely no issues with it. The car almost has 200,000 on it so I’ll have to change the coolant agin here soon. Oil gets changed every 5,000 the brake fluid has been changed every 20,000 no leaks in the system ABS works just fine. Power steering fluid I change ever 20,000 as well very easy to do just take off the return line start the car move the wheels lock to lock and let the pump pump out the old fluid. The battery has been changed every 4 to 5 years the serpentine belt gets changed as soon as it starts making noise or I see cracks. Wiper blades I change on the daily as soon as they start streaking there garbage. Washer fluid is always topped up. Car gets cleaned inside and out regularly helps keep rust from forming once rust starts car is garbage. The AC still works all the parts are original. Brakes are important and I recently did those new rotors pads and discs and the back wheels got new drums shoes and hardware. Tires are important to I recently got good brand names all season tires. I like doing the maintenance especially on an older car just to prove to people a car can last forever with proper maintenance.

[@overcastgabriel]

@@ih8momjokes1certain cars are very sensitive to trans fluid, like Mazda skyactiv , the new 10 speeds from gm and ford, the zf 8 speed in dodge and bmw , me personally a 240$ trans fluid change is a hell of a lot cheaper than a 6-10k transmission

[@theskyizblue2day431]

@@ih8momjokes1that’s only true if you never change it

[@cprooks]

The Only Thing You're Wrong About Is The Air Filters. Dude That's Way Too Fucking Often

[@MrDhalli6500]

As a helicopter mechanic in the Marine Corps I can not tell you how much I agree with this guy. Most of our time we were performing preventative or phase maintenance on the helicopters, didn't matter if the part was good or bad, if it had such and such amount of flight hours on the part it got replaced. mostly fluids, oils, grease's and filters.

[@dacat8171]

It is the so-called 'safe life' construction philosophy. The thing with automotive is that nowadays cars are built to last only for 7 years. You cannot win that maintenance race in the long run.

[@Ginx-pe4si]

Exactly. I have a truck that I maintain that's 15 yrs old and it's perfectly fine but the radiator is part plastic, the hoses are 15 yrs old, the pump is 15 yrs old...so I replaced them all.

[@Mach141]

Aircraft maintenance is not even in the same ballpark as auto maintenance. Everything is done on a schedule and constantly inspected because lives are on the line. None of it is optional.

[@MrDhalli6500]

@@Mach141 I don't get your point. They're just different levels of preventative maintenance. Sure air craft preventative maintenance is more in depth, but that's not my point. My point is WHYyyyyyy it's done not how in depth it's done.

[@Mach141]

@@MrDhalli6500 My point is you can choose to do your autos maintenance whenever you want, not following the manufactures suggestions at all, and still have great results and a longer lasting car. Maybe you just focus on your particular vehicle models problem areas and ignore the rest. None of this is possible with an aircraft. Hope that makes more sense

[@reubenmorris487]

I tried to tell my boomer parents about this with their brand new BMW X9. The oil level "light" came on shortly before the year was up for the first oil change. I told them that their driving qualifies as "extreme" and to change it every 6 months like I do with my VW. They scoffed and said, "People don't do that..." I told them...but they don't want to listen. I only fix jets for a living.

[@gureno19]

As long as they sell it within 4 years and the warranty period, they'll be fine 😂

[@D3nn1s]

Bmw x9? :D All i can see are concept cars so far

[@robertbell525]

​@@gureno19very true, they only care about the experience of the first owner who is their customer. And since most people lease or trade, they don't see the long term damage being done.

[@gureno19]

@@robertbell525 literally the only brand that I'd trust with a long term (10-15years) vehicle purchase is Toyota or Lexus.

[@steveclark..]

@@gureno19 I agree. I live in the UK and have travelled through Europe many times, BMW, Mercedes etc are very common but I wouldn't have one, certainly not a modern one, I'll take a Japanese make any day. I do wonder when/if they will cheap out on us though, with bad design and poor quality parts. Practically every product you can buy has taken that route, nothing lasts, kettle, washing machine for example, it's all built to fail sooner rather than later.

[@Brian_srh]

I've always told my kids advice is free, take all you can and disregard the rest. If only there were more honest shops like this around. Great job Dave.

[@jediflip2515]

Advice may be free but it isn't always good. Hope you taught them discernment haha

[@tomm1109]

I called a shop to inquire about fixing the AC on my old volvo 740 many years ago. The guy told me on the phone that often its just a bad ground. I went outside, connected a ground to the battery and the AC housing and it worked!!! I immediately drove down to the shop, found the guy I talked to and gave him a tip $.

[@aluisious]

Take my advice, I'm not using it.

[@Splarkszter]

​@@tomm1109Awesome! People like him and you make the world an awesome place!

[@JJPJack]

As the Car Care Nut says, "oil changes are a lot cheaper than a new engine" and that goes for every fluid. You can easily tell the difference between a car that does easy routine maintenance and ones that don't

[@user-me3er7lm1o]

My daughter and her husband just bought a new vehicle each. My daughter is following my advice and changing fluids regularly. Every 5k for oil, 30k for tranny fluid, etc, etc. Her husband is going by the dealer recommendations of every 10k for oil and never for tranny fluid. Ive talked to him twice trying to explain exactly what was said in this video but to no avail. He even became a smartass and said this isn’t the 1970’s anymore and if the dealer says to do it, then that’s what hes gonna do. In about 5 years I am going to be really interested to see who starts having problems and who doesn’t.

[@hokie9910]

What kind of cars are we talking about?

[@captaintoyota3171]

Yeah if he is on dirty roads or high load or any extreme conditions he should do 3k on oil. Trans fluid can last 50-100k miles depending on auto manual 5/10spd etc. But yeah "dealer says so" ok dealers also refuse to recall KNOWN issues if its cheaper to setlle lawsuits. WE ALL know they do this

[@jonhansen4745]

Be sure to warn all of your son-in-law's friends to never purchase one of his used vehicles...

[@carlosoliveira-rc2xt]

Firstly no manufacturer says to never change the transmission fluid. Secondly changing synthetic oil every 5000 miles is a waste of money and environmentally irresponsible and an old wives tale. Thirdly I've been using synthetic oil since 1998 and I can guarantee I know more about it than you. A big problem I find is that people use synthetic but use a regular filter ( non reinforced ) for extended drain intervals. Synthetic oil is good for 30,000 km drain intervals but a good reinforced ( synthetic filter ) must be used so that the filter doesn't go into bypass. Please stop with your uneducated advice as it does no one any good.

[@richcombs4805]

​@@carlosoliveira-rc2xt really....so about that '18 Camry of mine where in the winter with 2000mi on an oil change I found the level just a smidge high and odor wasn't normal....yeah, what if I had gone to 10,000mi with that oil? Bad things.....per a tribologist...because I didn't know until I had it analyzed that I had dilution going on and the viscosity had gotten to the bottom of the range at 100C. So your statement might be safe for a highway-only vehicle where oil analysis is done at 5k to prove everything is on the money...but most folks can't afford that ESPECIALLY WHEN CHANGING THE OIL IS LESS EXPENSIVE THAN THE ANALYSIS!!! I'm an engineer working in heavy API rotating machinery and I've met with Shell engineers and I've made a vehicle go to 400000 that still got 43mpg. Your advice is highly misleading!!!

[@tdc9136]

I have a 2012 Accord with 121,000 on it. I change my oil every 3500 miles at 50%-60% on the reminder. At the same time I pull the drain plug on the trans and change 3.5 quarts of fluid. The Owners Manuel says change every 30,000 miles. I'm a firm believer in PM. I treated all 3 gens of my Dodge 5.9 Cummins the same way. I also change my oil in my Chevy K10 once a year because I don't drive it that much, maybe 1K miles a year. I grew up with the saying, "Pay me now or pay me more later". I also do regular brake fluid, power steering fluid and coolant flushes.

[@andreahighsides7756]

You should calculate how much extra you’ll be spending over 5 or 10 years. 3,500 mile transmission fluid changes is probably way overkill unless you’re towing with that Honda lol. Seriously though, you may be spending an extra $5,000 over the ownership of this car for little benefit. Do the math, try to find a good middle ground. Preventative maintenance is great but money is what it comes down to, and it could be a lot of money.

[@tdc9136]

@@andreahighsides7756 I'm 65 years old. I've had more vehicles in my life including semi trucks than I can count on my fingers and toes plus your fingers and toes. I've NEVER put an engine, transmission or any drivetrain component in any vehicle ever...and I have the money so it's not an issue. I believe in overkill when it comes to maintenance to things I own. Plus I live in the desert and 115 degrees in the summer is a vehicle killer.

[@andreahighsides7756]

@@tdc9136 that’s good! If you’ve got the money then it makes sense to make it last. One day these will be relics of history

[@fortheloveofnoise9298]

My car leaks oil so I never have to change it, just add 😂 (I do change the filter though)

[@mplslawnguy3389]

⁠@@andreahighsides7756He said 3,500 mile oil changes and 30,000 mile transmission fluid changes. Some transmissions actually do call for 30,000 mile intervals. I go 50-60k personally.

[@luistorres6130]

Every town in US needs a Dave 👏🏻

[@daveaver2804]

Finding a trustworthy mechanic is like having a family doctor you trust. I never argue with his suggestions for future potential issues. We run 2013-2015 vehicles.

[@benjamintresham9649]

I’ve been a Mechanic for 30 years now and the advice you give is 100% correct and experience is the teacher not a book and blokes like you are making a good stand about the big manufacturers lies. Well done

[@DinDooIt]

I agree 100%, cut the manufacturer maintenance schedule in half and you'll be doing everything you can to keep your car going. I have a 2006 dodge 2500 with the cam eating 5.7, I use redline 5/30 and an extended filter (RP 30-8A), 3k mile oil changes since new and it still runs like new @389k miles. Oil & filter changes every 3k. Trans fluid & filter changes every 25k. Differential fluid changes every 25k. Transfer case fluid changes every 25k. No major repairs thus far. Take care of your vehicles and they take care of you, just stay away from the fancy gadgets in vehicles nowadays, less equals more. P.S. I refuse to purchase anything newer than the 06 I have, it's already beyond my abilities to repair the electrical systems. My 76 F250, 78 Corvette and my 87 square body are much easier and cheaper to repair.

[@blainebigger8332]

Look up Uncle Tony's Garage, he basically tells u why the cam gets eaten...... it's from constant idling.... there isnt enough splash at idle in the crank to hit the lifters, which eats cams..... cop cars were notorious for eaten cans because they idle a ton....... just a heads up, watch ur idle time 👍👍

[@DinDooIt]

@@blainebigger8332 Virtually no idle time for me except the few minutes to warm up. I've sent out oil analytics periodically and they returned an analysis that shows the oil is good for 7k mile oil changes but, I still do the 3k mile changes. Peace of mind costs more I guess, lol.

[@mr8610]

I have the same truck and run 10,000 mobile 1 and change it once a year. As well as never changed the transmission fluid. Just crossed 200,000 miles and haven’t had a problem since new. Just use quality products. Over maintaining is definitely a thing.

[@DinDooIt]

@@mr8610 Expect problems soon with your lack of maintenance, being cheap and thinking things will last is definitely a thing too. Take off your diff cover, I bet the fluid is silver and full of metal, I also bet your tranny fluid is burnt up, dirt brown and no longer red, and no longer working as it should be.

[@budlanctot3060]

​@blainebigger8332 uncle Tony is a hack, especially about the Hemi oiling "issue".

[@jamestamu83]

Have changed the oil in all my vehicles every 3,000 miles and never had an issue in over 30-years. Have friends with new cars that only get changed every 10,000-miles b/c that's what the factory recommends. Penny wise and pound foolish. Of course, they just lease a new vehicle every 2-3 years and never see the long term damage. And they never own the car, so always making a car payment. SMH. Like your videos! Thanks for the tips.

[@danieljohnson4418]

Given the advancements in oil additives and detergents, I would argue that changing the oil every 3,000 miles is excessive. However, I also wouldn't advise changing it every 10,000 miles. There seems to be consensus in the automotive repair profession that 5,000 miles is the best interval.

[@Vennillion]

Oil isn’t everything though james, unless you’re driving toyotas only

[@ghostwrench2292]

I’ve done 10k oil changes on my 20 year old car with 170k+ miles since the car was new. I use full synthetic only and when I was inside the engine about 10k miles ago, it was clean as can be. No sludge whatsoever and all rod bearings were in impressively good condition.

[@andrecampbell4532]

@@ghostwrench2292if everything was good why’d you open the motor?

[@bertblue9683]

It took me years to accept 5,000 mile intervals. I'll never go longer, never.

[@alessandroserrao9422]

That's a golden piece of advice. I've seen this only on japanese manufacturers user guides. On heavy use engine oil and filter must be changed twice the recommended interval (1 year), so every 6 months. Honda, Toyota, Subaru, Daihatsu, all recommend this.

[@jamesrichardson645]

Interestingly, our Ford Falcons made in Australia also recommended this.

[@modifierle]

Dave, couldn't agree with you more. My 2015 Silverado was maintained at the dealer at the scheduled intervals for years and the transmission ate itself at 110k, the engine lifters 1k after that, both just outside of GMs powertrain warranty. The manufacturer's don't care, they just want to sell more vehicles and they know people will just keep buying them. That's why from now on I am doing the maintenance more often than what is recommended, to make sure the oils and other fluids are nice and clean and hopefully keep things from wearing out so quickly.

[@crazyryan2689]

I love old classic trucks. I have a '79 Ford F-150 with a 5.0 that I rebuilt in my garage. I made sure the block was cleaned inside the water jackets and all the oil passages were clean. I've been driving it now for 4 years and the coolant has been changed once every year. About 2 months ago, I had to replace the water pump. When I used a flashlight to look as far into the block as I could, I didn't see any rust at all. Maintenance is a small price to pay to keep an engine running at its peak performance!

[@charlesfrascona2073]

When I was 8 or 10 years old, I got my first dirt bike and my dad told me “always schedule your pm or your equipment will schedule it for you “

[@lobsterbisque7567]

I was fortunate, My dad taught me how to change the oil & filter when I was 12y/o, and by 13, it became my responsibility to stay on top of the oil changes of all the family's cars since. I got my driver's license and bought my first car at 18. I later landed a job at an oil & fluid change shop when i turned 30, and learned even more. I've driven nothing but used, old japanese cars and the neglect the previous owner have subjected these cars to is frightening! I bought my current daily driver in 2020: an '02 camry built in japan with the 2AZ engine. Sat under a tree for 10mos. before I got it. It required a lot of routine maintenance: Oil & filter change, Transmission flush & filter, Coolant Flush, radiator, thermostat, Plugs, Coil Packs, PCV Valve, Valve cover gasket, Mass airflow sensor, air filter, Belts, Hoses, Rotors, pads, And a full set of tires. Thankfully, the engine wasn't leaking any fluid, or burning any oil so I knew I could run synthetic oil. As soon as I got the car home, I performed an oiling system flush using new oil and filter. But during the flush, I gently drove the car for 10mi. on a road with a low speed limit(35MPH) after letting it idle for 15mins first. Followed immediately another oil change this time using Pennzoil's High Mileage synthetic with pure plus technology(which has an amazing detergent package & has natural gas as a base instead of crude oil which also makes a huge difference in keeping the internals clean) & and WIX XP filter instead of the cheap oil & filter used for the flush. Changing the oil & filter every 5k mi., and flushing the lubrication system once a yr. The first time I drained the transmission(which was done before the engine flush drive), the fluid was very dark, and had a slight burnt smell. So I performed a honda style transmission flush, driving the car 100mi. in between each drain & fill. With a sum total of 3 drain & fills. Since I bought the car to be a delivery vehicle at the time, I was averaging 100mi./day anyways(Thankfully, no longer a delivery vehicle). On the 3rd & final drain & fill, I dropped the pan, and replaced the transmission pan gasket, filter, and added a full bottle of Transmission Treatment by Lucas Oil to the new ATF. Which really brought the transmission back to life. Now it shifts seamlessly and I won't have to perform another drain & fill on the transmission for at least another 15k mi.. Overall, I spent little over $1000 for all the replacement parts & fluids which also includes a full set of new tires, and a new radiator. It took roughly a week to get everything done, including waiting on the parts to show up in the mail, getting the new tires swapped, & flushing the transmission. But It was worth all the work, b/c it drives like new even with 220k mi. It has easily been one of the best daily drivers I've ever owned, and it's still a joy to drive. It may be considered too old to most people's taste, but IDC, it's all around cheap to own, and it's never given me any problems since I did all the maintenance.

[@jeedwards1981]

I dont think you mentioned the mileage it had when you got it?

[@lobsterbisque7567]

@@jeedwards1981 It had 190k mi. when I bought it, it's at 247k mi. now

[@Vanguardkl]

Yes i use shell helix, exact same Pennzoil gtl fluid. Never touching anything else. It's the best for my Kia before that my dad uses now @240000km and my Merc cla200 now at 100k km

[@lobsterbisque7567]

@@Vanguardkl Nice!! The pure plus platinum synthetic has done wonders for my old japanese cars. The fact that even the vapors have cleaning properties the natural gas base is what really sold me on their synthetic oil. Project farm did an engine oil performance tournament. and the only oil that outperformed the pure plus synthetic was amzoil. I'm just glad my dad taught me how to change the engine oil at a young age, and the importance of changing the oil on time.

[@jirensentry7609]

"They don't care! They're just trying to get that thing through warranty. You wanna get that thing through the full life of that car. You double up on your oil changes... use the synthetic blend, but change it twice as often." Best advice I ever got about cars.

[@jamescalkins8803]

Thanks Dave. I sent a link for this video to my wife. I got her a new Tundra (last year for the V8) and have had a low key argument going with her about oil change intervals. I like your simple idea of cutting the recommended service interval in half. I've also located a local family-owned shop, where the owner was a Toyota dealer service manager for 20 years, with good reviews. We'll try them out. I appreciate honest service, and I'm happy to support a local business. I just wanted to let you know that your video helped inspire me to make a change that should benefit us and our local business community.

[@DavesAutoCenterCenterville]

Great comment, appreciate that !

[@dannyzamudio1252]

​@@DavesAutoCenterCentervillehi dave do gasoline additive works such amsoil p.i etc

[@richcombs4805]

​@@dannyzamudio1252 Dave and Lake Speed Jr. Won't argue with me telling you to add Chevron Techron every 3000 miles. How do I know? Lake advised this when he found dilution going on in my '18 Camry. I'm embarrassed to admit I had been using generic gasoline...which, has the bare minimum federal detergent added. Using top tier gas and that additive and there's a reason: if you look up the EPA license for it, you'll find an enormous list of other companies that are licensee's rebranding it and selling it, which includes....Toyota!

[@i-am-that-what-i-am]

Your wife argues back about this? Eff that, there's no way in the world i would tolerate that

[@greghelms4458]

Totally agreed, but the dealerships 1000 dollaring people to death every time they come in and not concentrating on what they came in for, with all the flushes and extras, and duplicate flushes and extras is extremely ridiculous. I know. I lived 30 years of it. Especially the last 15. Constantly getting berated to “upsell more”. It’s utterly ridiculous to epic proportions. Pulled many intakes and heads on cars that had multiple “fuel system services” where the backs of the valves were still coked up badly. Pulled transmissions with multiple flushes where the spool valves were still mucked up. Don’t believe the hyped up pics of the Wynns, and other companies flush products the service advisor shows you. It’s all baloney and they’re just getting decent spiffs, not to mention beefing up their customer pay repair order average. Guaranteed the service manager made their average a huge part of their pay plan. Half the time the guys who do those flushes dump the chemicals in and don’t even use the exact equipment provided to do the flush, or the guy has a drawer full of the chemicals. I’m pretty jaded I guess because I got to hate turning wrenches and all that goes along with dealership life but I’m not lying. Any honest tech will tell you he’s seen it all.

[@lanemorrow7417]

This is why people don't trust dealers. Its amazing to me why dealers don't understand this. The last time I went to the dealer I was sitting in the waiting room which was busy and I heard service advisors come into the room and tell people who had less than 20k miles on their vehicles that they needed engine and cabin filters at least 3x. I had to sit there and bite my tongue because let's face it, you don't need an engine air filter in 20k miles. Everyone said okay, do it. That's hundreds of dollars worth of filters that were almost definitely not needed. Its difficult to find honest shops anymore. Very difficult.

[@busman2050]

20,000 for air filter is reasonable. My old one at 20,000 was caked upon the intake side

[@busman2050]

My cabin filter at 15,000 was also dirty and need changing g

[@kirstenspencer3630]

Wise words of car care. Now find a good shop and let them extend the life of your car. I did fleet service and PREVENTION of problems is the key here. Avoid the quick oil change places like COVID !

[@ghlewis]

I had brake fluid loss after using one of these places. I'm positive that someone put the cap back on loose. I agree with the wisdom in this statement.

[@mekanikman2297]

I specialize in BMWs, and on that transmission note, the funniest shit is that ZF (the transmission manufacturer that BMWs been using for over a decade) recommends changing oil at a 60,000km interval. On top of that, people completely forget the differential fluids and the transfer case fluid.

[@calebspaeth4287]

and... its pretty complicated. There are roundabout 9 liters of transmission fluid in a ZF 8HP. If you just drop the pan you only get 4 liters out. Experts flush the whole damn thing with a special scan tool and use up roundabout 12 liters for the job.

[@bradofwar5960]

No not at all, 60000 miles not 60000km. I'm at 100000km and still shifts fine.

[@mekanikman2297]

@@bradofwar5960 you’re correct, they recommend between 60,000 and 80,000 miles. Regardless, doing it earlier will always be better. Just because your transmission shifts well now doesn’t mean not to do your transmission fluid. The problem with them is that by the time you have an issue come up it’s too late. Preventative maintenance is key.

[@danparden8103]

i was told the fluid was near imposable to change in a zf8hp, it was so easy one of the easiest ive ever done lol

[@danparden8103]

i also use amsoil signature tranny fluid every 30k miles shifts beautifully

[@ex8280]

Problem with mechanics, is, they look at my 2000 tacoma, and immediately refused to do any work on it. It's too old, and they don't want to be liable for any issue that pops up, just because it's old. So for now, youtube is my mechanic, and DAve is the closest thing to a real mechanic I have. LOL.

[@andreahighsides7756]

I’ve never heard of this. Perhaps try a reputable local shop, not owned by a corporation. I used to work with many shops and a year 2000 car was common for almost all of them.

[@ryans413]

Those are your everyday mechanics that just do basic maintenance things. You have to shop around and find a shop that specializes on working on older cars and knows what there doing. It might cost more but you’re paying for that experience.

[@LAactor]

Yeah what these other people are saying. Toyota trucks are easy in that era. Doesn't even have a carb right? You're going to baff00ns. Local Indy shop will do it. Where are you? Even better is find a Toyota Lexus specialist. If that isn't around find a Japanese specialist. Doesn't matter if the mechanics are white black Asian or whatever. But they just work on Toyotas Hondas Nissan, etc.

[@Moondog66602]

I'd rather work on 1000 old vehicles, than one new one.

[@QuangPham-hm7fm]

He making moneyboff you bro

[@holdover88]

Excellent advise & analogies there!. Another thing to note about manufactures and their ever increasing service intervals, is that they want to make their listed cost of ownership lower. This is something buyers consider, and a lot of perceived reliability comes from this metric.

[@DavesAutoCenterCenterville]

Well said!

[@bobw7018]

I always tell my customers this same thing. Shorter oil change intervals, more frequent preventative maintenance. I explain it like this, I'm here to help YOU keep YOUR car going, I'm not in it to get all your money. The manufacturer designs their maintenance plans around a plan to sell new cars when these start having too many avoidable issues. Oil changes are easy and cheap, most fluid changes are. Getting people to understand WHY they're important though? that's another story.

[@tomm1109]

I don't know, I see shops still telling people to change the oil every 3000 miles. That was ok in the time of carbs but way overkill today. Then again I had a BMW with a 13,000 mile interval. I would recommend changing it a little more often but those cars are worthless after 100k miles anyway so I saved my money and did 13k.

[@bobw7018]

@@tomm1109 Do you know WHY manufacturers are saying go longer distances? The idea is to lessen the "cost of ownership" by more infrequent oil changes. The flip side is, that causes accelerated wear internally. OR premature failures in some where oil consumption is a common thing (GM, Hyundai, and Mopar just to name a few) with the thought that when it wears out sooner, you'll buy another car. Yes modern oils are good, but not THAT good. Sludge still builds up, filters still cause issues, people don't check oil regularly, all of which brutally impact the longevity of any engine.

[@sandych33ks1]

People think if my car isn't over heating the coolant is good. Flushing / changing your coolant is a very important maintenance maintenance issue...

[@fastinradfordable]

My 1981 vw rabbit has ORiginal coolant reservoir with no gunk. It’s probably only had coolant changed 6 times the last 42 years.

[@DL101ca]

Long life coolant only needs to be changed every 5-6 years under normal use, providing there's no issues with cooling system.

[@sandych33ks1]

@@DL101ca I agree and that was my point but most people think it lasts forever. Then they have heater core issues etc... Can't fix stupid

[@markchidester6239]

Mine has an oil change indicator that uses driving conditions to tell you when to change it. It took 9k miles to set the alert. I just change it every 5k. Easy indicator is the odometer. 40k, 45k, 50k and so on.

[@joe6096]

Quit following your stupid indicator!!!!! That’s what Dave just said!!!! Change it every 3,000-5,000 miles and forget the indicator!!! You left the factory oil in your engine for 9,000 miles? Are you that stupid???? A new engine has loose metal shavings and crumbs that wear during the break-in period!! On a brand new engine you need to change the oil at 1500 miles, 3,000 miles, 5,000 miles, then you can go up to 5,000 miles after that.

[@DavesAutoCenterCenterville]

Thanks for sharing

[@FiddlerOnTheRoof2024]

Sir. You make me miss my Dad so much. I love your videos. Thank you.

[@scottamy6496]

I drive a 2001 Honda Accord coupe to work, it’s my daily driver to get back and forth to my job to keep the miles off my 2017 Silverado, but it’s a fantastic little car that I personally maintain to keep it that way! I just recently replaced the timing belt, water pump and all associated belts, tensioners and even motor mounts at 180,000 miles! It’s the 3rd timing belt and with just shy of 200,000 miles it runs just as good as it did with 10,000 miles! I change the transmission fluid every 30,000 miles and as the transmissions were the weak point on this era of Honda I keep a very close eye on it and change it way more than the recommended frequency, but it’s been worth the time and small investment of money!

[@jeedwards1981]

What trans fluid do you run? Ive heard the redline D4 is really good for those older hondas.

[@seagullsbtn]

My truck's manufacturer says 10k between OC and well over 100k on the transmission. Not going over 5k on OC and 50k on ATF. Taking the manufacturers numbers and halving them got me 250k trouble free miles.

[@rickj1983]

You are the reason I subscribed to this channel. You're a engine surgeon and really care, it shows and you tell it like it is, good or bad.

[@jordancook1668]

I will say about transmission fluid replacement, do it as often as you like but I don’t believe in replacing trans fluid once you’re well past due for the first one. In other words, if it’s at 100k and it’s never been replaced, I would probably skip it at that point, because there’s a damn good chance you’ll have problems soon after, the ship has sailed at that point. Lots of times that new fluid and worn clutches will not play nice together, and I’ve seen a fair number of issues after replacement of well-worn trans fluid on a well-worn transmission. If you’re going to do it, start at 30 or 40k and keep after it. That overdue trans probably will fail prematurely, no doubt, but I’d let sleeping dogs lie. Now cue 15 “experts” who will tel me I’m full of shit. On the oil front, yeah the more frequent, the better. Another major contributor to oil wear is short trips, low RPM use, cold temps, and direct injection. But if there’s one thing you can do, it’s take an extended trip as often as you can. Get that crankcase good and hot so you can cook off that excess moisture and fuel vapor. If it’s a diesel, you’ll be able to burn off some soot, get the valves good and hot, the EGR and DPF will get good and hot. Get some revs in. Truth is, engines should be run hard regularly. Even suspension and brakes benefit from that. Good firm braking keeps brake dust and road grime buildup down. A spirited drive moves ball joints and bushings through their full range of motion. Just a few tips that I’ve seen help quite a bit over the years. Machinery is best when used for what it was designed for, and properly maintained. Pretty simple formula, really.

[@jeedwards1981]

Thats old school knowledge. My gfs RAV4 had 130k on it when we met and I started maintaining her vehicle. It was fine and shifted smoother and better than before. I think if the car was ran hard and the fluid has tons of clutch material you may be correct.

[@jeffreyhurst9552]

Some sound advice in all that but I’d still want to drain or flush the old transmission fluid, but then I’m just a produce clerk at Publix. If I had a shop like Daves nearby, I’d probably follow his advice either way. I do take my commuter motorcycles out on a ten mile run on the interstate occasionally for just the reasons you gave.

[@DavidGarcia-vh3ul]

My mechanic friend told me the EPA gives auto manufacturers credits for designing cars and trucks that are low empact on the environment. And that's why now you're told you don't have to change the fluid on your transmission or 10k oil changes. My 2014 Ford Focus runs like a champ and it hit 162k trouble free miles today. I change the oil about every 3,500-4k miles and the oil service light comes on every 10k liles.

[@jerrysgardentractorsengine2243]

Here’s the problem with not being able to check/change your transmission fluid: it’s going to burn up eventually and you’ll be stuck with shifting and performance issues Ask me how I know

[@TheJorgSacul]

2003 VW Passat 1.8 T... transmission did burn up for just that reason. I'd still be driving that car today if it'd had a dipstick or at least SOME reasonable method to check the tranny fluid.

[@raymondfellers9430]

And what's the environmental impact of junking a car at 100k miles instead of 300k? Bet the EPA buried that study.

[@jeedwards1981]

Does that have the dreaded powershift dual clutch trans? If so, had any problems with it?

[@craigwood6666]

One of the best videos everyone should see. I totally agree. We have 287k on our 2006 Tahoe with a 5.3 and a 4L60E.

[@AnthonyJ350]

Thank you for making this video and educating people how important maintenance is! 🙂

[@DavesAutoCenterCenterville]

Our pleasure!

[@badmechanic91]

This is such a good video. Someone should make a DVD of it and include it with every car purchase! I don't know how many times I've had someone come to me and ask me about a big bill they might have to pay to see if it's true or just a mechanic trying to rip them off (understandable but still) and then my first question is "How are you on maintenance?" Which is usually followed with "What do you mean?" and then I reply "Have you looked at your manual and done the required maintenance that is in there?" And pretty much every time the answer is, "I didn't even KNOW that was in there!" So not only are they not doing what you suggested which is 100 percent FACT, they aren't even doing the recommended manufacturer maintenance. This video (if people take it to heart) will save folks A LOT of money.

[@SpiderMechanicMike]

I've always told my customers that yeah maintenance is expensive right now but would you rather take care of maintenance now or replace parts and pay more down the line? Maintenance is key to both saving money and extending the life of the vehicle

[@tysonjames2723]

Thank you I hate paying for the maintenance it drives me nuts 🥜 but you make a point and I will change my behaviour. I just feel every time it goes in it comes back with something bigger. Thank you it was a great explanation.

[@eric9095]

Dave, you sir are a national Treasure. I could spend all day watching your content and spend the next implementing what I have learned from you. Thank you sir!

[@bobreighnheart5071]

This is a great video, read your manual people. I asked the dealership when my plugs should be changed on my 2.0 turbo they said "ooh not until 100k miles" turns out its every 40-45k mile gained 2.5 miles per gallon, and my car only has 48k miles on it. Read the manual

[@barryhuddlestun3098]

You should always do what ever maintenance you can. Required or not. If you take care of your ride. It will take care of you. Get a shop you can trust. If you need to budget maintenance your mechanic is always willing to go the extra mile when it comes to safety. They will always work with you. Great mechanics are out there. Go find them. They don't look for tips. They look for things that need to be fixed. Your appreciation is all they want.

[@1marcelfilms]

Sure after going to the same place to get ripped off many times they maybe once in a while "help you out" haha

[@floydwilliams3321]

So true maintenance, maintenance, maintenance and more maintenance. You will get your money out of whatever it is.

[@markdanielczyk944]

I always change my oil every 3,000 miles. The radiator is flushed, trans, axles, transfer case, brake fluid serviced every other year(25k). My old truck lasted me 20 years, 246k miles, (towed once for a fuel pump)my friend is still driving it!

[@lpg12338]

Outstanding! 👍

[@az7az7]

Great advice and evidence. I always also consider the fact that if taken to the extreme, every time a system is opened for maintenance there is a chance of something not being done quite to spec, so it’s a balance of enough, but not too much.

[@kervinonyoutube1780]

This is the stuff that we want. All of these other mechanic shows don't do much mechanic work. You are a professional thank you for your knowledge never stop making videos 🔥

[@DavesAutoCenterCenterville]

Wow, thanks!

[@lpg12338]

Exactly! 👍

[@daveshepherd7582]

I had a little 4cyl toyota pickup that I serviced every 3k miles and even at 75k miles I would debate weather I should even be changing the oil it looked so good!

[@l.n3187]

Buying my first ever car, i immediately was worried about oil changes and servicing, nobody mentioned it to me when I was learning to drive. My first car I have changed all of the fluids, replaced filters and timing belts and my car feels and drives better because of it.

[@andreahighsides7756]

Awesome! I remember how fun it was doing that with my first car. Assuming it’s a used car check out the owners forums for common problems, it can really help get ahead of impending issues. Like my first car was an old passat, a rainwater drain in the engine compartment would get plugged with leaves over the years and eventually flood water into the cabin footwells, destroying the ECU ($$$). Super easy to prevent once I read about it, a lot of cars have weird special issues like that as they get older.

[@ryans413]

And you learned something doing the maintenance it’s fun especially if you have a driveway or garage you can do most of this maintenance yourself.

[@missingremote4388]

That is the first thing they do when buying a used car. Change the oil and buy 4 new Bridgestone Potenza 17 inch tire LOL

[@jthonn]

Sir, you are 100% correct. If anyone argues with that, well I will be nice and not say it. I freaked out when they did away with the transmission dipstick, now I about lost it when some models did away with the oil dipstick. How stupid is that?

[@andrewwilkinson5220]

You are 100% correct. They do not care about anything except that warranty period.

[@nathancurran612]

💯. I recommend routine oil testing it is cheap. Will tell you condition of the oil, and how dirty it is. My SOS results indicate that 2/3 the OEM intervals has the oil at life or carbon levels are too high. All depends on driving conditions. Preventative maintenance is always cheaper and more convenient than reactive maintenance.

[@abstracts2004]

Another thing about oil changes. If you drive your vehicle a short distance every time that you drive it and never get out on the highway for more than 15 miles or 20 minutes, you should change your oil every 3 K. The moisture that will build up in your oil because of those short trips with the engine never getting hot enough for long enough will cause issues. That goes for flex fuel/E85 users as well.

[@danherrick5785]

How could moisture(water) enter the engine when it it sealed?

[@varmastiko2908]

@@danherrick5785Air intake. The moisture is in the induction air.

[@danherrick5785]

@@varmastiko2908 How does that get into a sealed oil pan? What your talkin about explodes in the cylinders...

[@varmastiko2908]

@@danherrick5785Through the oil film covering the cylinder walls.

[@wyndnra1n]

Engines are not sealed and are open to atmosphere via the PCV/intake system. When the vehicle is stored and not ran frequently, temperature changes can cause moisture condensation within the engine.

[@aaroneaton4849]

100% agree with "double" oil changes and transmission fluid flushes!!!!!

[@bradbarley6639]

Absolutely a great video! As a 31 year automotive service professional I couldnt agree any more with you. I wish every vehicle owner watched this. Most of them just think we are "trying to rip them off" when we tell them the real facts.

[@cosmicpsyops4529]

You give off Tom Green vibes. I love your videos! Utah!

[@2078smith]

I tell my friends & family members all the time, its no such thing as lifetime when it comes to vehicle fluids. But, some of them never believes me, until their car start messing up.

[@wk7060]

Dave, you are so right about preventive maintenance importance, but for some reason, many owners just do not get it.

[@MarkTrades__]

Increasing replacement/maintenance frequencies on fluids & rubber components has to be the single most-impactful action anyone with a piece of equipment can take in regards to making their equipment last & perform. From industrial machinery in manufacturing where I got to learn from 30-40 year machine repair & maintenance skilled tradesmen to my own experience with my newer vehicles - it has been the lesson I have learned. In addition to wanting to sell you a new car, all of these little maintenance changes they manufacturers are making are also motivated by: -meeting emissions+mpg requirements (the lower viscosity oils) and -reduced maintenance costs ("our car is cheaper to own & requires less maintenance!") by simply extending intervals. A great example is toyota's included 2-year maintenance on new toyotas. I looked at the maint. schedule for a corolla hatchback within that timeframe. Guess what you get with that awesome "free maintenance"? Like 1-2 oil changes and 1-2 tire rotations 😂. Toyota has the audacity to call this "toyotacare" and make it a cornerstone of their marketing. At the root though, the issue is that people in society have lost appreciation for how complex & amazing the engineered things in our daily lives are & the fact that these things like cars deserve to be respected in regard to their ability to end your life in the event of a mechanical failure.

[@jeedwards1981]

Toyota is the new GM, lots of BS out of that company.

[@rafaelbetancourt3551]

Great video! It’s DO difficult to convince people that maintenance is key. People think oil changes are a waste of money, until it’s too late down the road (engine burning 1 quart of oil every 3k ) We need to bring back to school basic auto repair

[@skachor]

It really doesn't help when some garages sell unnecessary additional services that don't actually do much of anything. Like the good ole hot oil flush.

[@fredproctor6973]

The ole money grab with the dealers.

[@IraFuse_422]

Dave is spot on, thank you for speaking your mind. If you don't trust a certain mechanic/dealership, get a second opinion. There are some bad shops/mechanics/technicians out there, but there are also many good ones.

[@munozinni]

Hola señor Dave … you’re totally right about the maintenance there is a saying “ If you don’t invest in your wellness, you gonna have to invest on your illness “ or something like that but the same applies to everything in life your home, your vehicle or your physical health 😢…Saludos!!!👋😃👋

[@carpballet]

The REAL moral of that story is don’t plow with a truck

[@Keeter94]

I just feel like 3000 miles is too soon for an oil change especially when my car owner, manual says every 7500 don’t get me wrong I would never wait 7000 miles to do in oil change but I think like 5000 is the sweet spot.

[@antonisautos8704]

It's 3000 if you're not on the highway a lot. If you're driving the car in the city. That 3000 miles is a lot more engine hours than 3000 on the highway every day. Most people put their car in extreme driving conditions without even knowing it. Short trips at low speed all the time is very hard on engines. If you're taking a trip from NYC to LA and you spend 45HRS at 70 most of the time... you're oil probably isn't that bad but will need changing soon. Spend 1500 miles in NYC traffic at 15 to 35 MPH. That oil is probably worse off than the NYC to LA trip

[@robertmoore4637]

I’ll put my experience on this. My dad was an ase mechanic for 35 years and engine builder and GM teacher. He told me to drop 1/2 a quart of atf in a few days before and drive it like normal ( this is usually wot a lot) before I change the oil. I have never opened this engine except drop the oil pan to replace the o ring on the pick-up tube. A bit of nasty in the pan and I popped the valve covers just to look. Clean as I was shocked at how clean. 03- 5.3 chevy express with 549,000. Still runs like a top. Had to finally retire it bc all the freaking paint fell off

[@peterrabbit2719]

Should have washed and waxed once a month.

[@robertmoore4637]

@@peterrabbit2719 who does that to a work van? But your right.

[@davidwell686]

I was looking for a used car for my daughter a few years ago and was stunned how few people are maintaining their car. I looked at Lexus, Honda, Toyota, Chevy. Time and time again, few oil changes, other fluids n not changed, not even air filters. Amazing.

[@Dante_S550_Turbo]

The story part is really good info. I was a kid wrenching on cars and the neighbor needed a new coolant hose because it was leaking. They were cheap ppl so beyond the part they provided and my work they weren't going to buy any more parts. I dug in there and replaced the coolant hose, everything was completely dry rotted. Everything under that hood that was rubber really needed to be replaced. I made them aware and they scoffed at me. A day later some of the other smaller hoses started to leak and they blamed me for it, knowing they would refuse buying any more parts. Some band-aids can open up the flood gates and ppls logic and reasoning go out the window. They went to a professional shop and then tried to bill me for the work/ lines they needed, which they refused to replace when i was in there. XD

[@ralphriffle1126]

Great advise Dave. Thank you for taking the time to teach us

[@DavesAutoCenterCenterville]

Very welcome

[@chuckcampbell3927]

🛫📖🛬 Words of wisdom brother Dave. I truly wish that every vehicle owner in America could hear and watch this video. Well said and to the point. The majority of dealerships in my area are guilty of aiding and abetting in design obsolescence coupled with consumer procrastination. Most dealers are selling finance paper and they don't care about what vehicle they sell; It's all about the finance. GOD Bless 📖🛐✈️🐆🐝🐝🐝

[@shoktan]

I’ve got nearly 200,000 miles on my BMW X3 and I get the oil changed a minimum of 4 times a year. The computer will tell me when it needs it and I immediately make an appointment for my mechanic. It’s just now starting to get more serious age-related issues (various gaskets and sensors have been replaced) but still runs great. A few hundred bucks a year on maintenance is well worth it.

[@robertkwiatkoski1292]

Sor, much respect comming your way from Eastern N.C. I have an old 1993 7.3 Idi, have never found a good diesl mechanic . Ever! Just left it for repairs. No lie 3.5 months. Wanted to replace the front end steering components. it got greased. Had a fuel leat at 1 of the injectors, now it's worse.Had to unhook the parking break as it got stuck. Asked to check and replace breaks if necessary. New front breaks, didn't even check the rear breaks, just told me to work/ jiggle the emergency break if it was a problem. Our area used to be a sleepy/ quiet ocean front string of towns. Now it's crazy busy and in all things it apperas to me that C,D and F quality work, attitudes are/is acceptable on everything. Maybe I'm just getting old. Not the way i was raised. Once again. my respect to you and what you do.

[@Dreccomel193]

“Get a good shop!” You make it sound like it is that easy. I have been looking for years to the point I learned to work on my car or truck. Even after paying a shop for a diagnosis, whatever issues existed before I conducted the repairs. The issue was still there! SMH! For that service, I can do it myself and save the 150 USD fee.

[@wishbone20t]

406,000 miles on my 2015 Volkswagen TDI (diesel) Passat. I've never changed the oil in less than a 30,000 mile interval, I've gone as far as 45,000 miles. I've never done any pre-maintenance, flushes etc. other than timing belts. I've never had an issue or repair related to a lack of pre-maintenance. I still drive the car 1,200 to 1,400 miles per week. The car still looks great. I get lots of compliments and drives like the day I drove it off the lot. The car has lasted 2.5 car lifetimes at this point, I don't know if it's a superior vehicle or just luck. Please no hate, I'm just sharing facts.

[@buzuxi]

You change your motor oil every 30k miles????

[@jeedwards1981]

Prob because its a deisel. Diesel engines are and have to be built to a stronger specification due to the sheer nature of the high compression and heat.

[@jpesicka999]

You obviously topped Off the oil in between changes right?

[@ProjectKneepads]

This is like the dentist telling me to floss more. He benefits from my failure to do so, but he's telling me because he knows my quality of life will be better because he's seen too many people who have problems because they didn't do what he's telling me to do. What a boss.

[@fastinradfordable]

I change my oil twice when it’s due. And twice as often. That way my 450,000 tdi still has crystal clear oil.

[@nativeoutdoors1780]

It's crystal clear in a diesel? Your lying broh

[@tessitori]

My 03 tdi never has had crystal clear oil! How does your?

[@drazengoranovic1]

@@tessitori by talking BS

[@tessitori]

@drazengoranovic1 I heard of 1 Tdi with crystal clear oil at 5000 miles and he was running a propane blend. I would love to have Crystal clear oil ....

[@importdoc7]

I’ve run a European repair shop for 34 years. I have this conversation with customers all the time. Maintenance maintenance maintenance, pay me now or pay me later. Enjoy your channel. It’s all about the relationship with the customer. Build yourself a reputation for doing good work and charging an honest and fair price. Nothing more satisfying than a happy customer and knowing that you performed the job right the first time.

[@ryanhernandez156]

I’ve been a mechanic for 14yrs couldn’t explain it more clear I’ve worked for 3 corporate companies I’m back at my original shop where I started I wish I had a owner of shop like you if I ever move to Utah from Houston I will definitely be applying Mr.Dave

[@gregfisher216]

Good advise Dave ! Noah told folks ,it gone rain, but they didn't listen ! till it started raining ! Folks these days especially us older folks who remember changing the oil in your car for 15 ,20 bucks. Now a days , it can run over a 100 Bucks! Folks will say I can afford that. But when the engine blows, or the heads look like chocolate cake frosting and they now they are looking a 2500 + bucks to fix the engine. Makes a 100 bucks look like Boutonniere money!

[@jkramer4716]

Good job Dave! Good job! Yes, yes, yes, maintenance is everything if an individual wants their vehicle to last. Keep telling the people Dave about maintenance. Some people you can tell hundreds of times about maintenance of their vehicle and for some reason they let it go in one ear and out the other. I always like when working on a customer vehicle that takes real good care of their vehicle because I have so much more respect for him/her and their vehicle!

[@smedleybutler1969]

About 2 years ago I started changing the oil on 5 cars for all the members of my family spring and fall about every 6 months,I now change ATF fluid in the transmissions every 4th oil change! coolant flushes and brake fluid changes! I had a failed transmission in my daughters 2012 Suburu Imprezza with a CVT and also in my 2002 Honda Odyssey in the past and I will do all I can to stop that from happening in the future! I learned how to do all my own maintenance its much cheaper and I only use the best fluids!

[@fortheloveofnoise9298]

Switch them all to manual transmissions, it should be illegal for cars to not have a manual.

[@bastiaansnijder5317]

Dave , preaching to the converted. After 35 years as engine service manager at CAT , maintenance is second nature. Used to do numerous maint seminars for customers. Apply same practices to my 5 Toyota diesels in Thailand and Australia. Half the recommrnded intervals for all fluids. For large engines such as Cat use oil analysis to finetune intervals. It pays off in a big way!

[@sjanzeir]

My daily driver has a synchronous double-barrel carburetor, a brass radiator, an oil-cooled ignition coil, points and condenser, and a five-speed manual transmission. I change the oil, use quality coolant that I change every year, and dump a fuel system cleaner into the tank every few fill-ups. Even with well over 450,000 miles, the vehicle hasn't given me any major trouble. And it's French!

[@_D.I.G_]

just subbed, awesome content, honestly one of the reason why i stopped working as a mechanic in a dealership was because we were un truthful about maintenance and basically stealing peoples money when the warranties ran out. horrible practices, the dealerships arent on your side and why would they be? I own two cars one is a ford escape that have 390 thousand miles on it and I tow my 2400 lbs boat with it and never had an issue with the trans. The other has well over 200k again, never had any issues with them because the maintenance is done like clock work.

[@zeroelus]

I can't remember on which shop YT channel I saw this from but basically some brands will do their maintenance schedule based on expecting their customer to be a lease customer for their (luxury) car and want them in the fewest times possible so that they get the idea of "wow what a good car I only ever took it once to the dealership" or stuff along that mentality. It makes sense through that lens, but agree 100% that if you're getting this type of content on YT, you're probably trying to keep your car running as best as it can for the longest it can. In which case those extended intervals are not good. Seen so many mechanics and engine teardowns where a small leak/extended service intervals ended up doing the engine in.

[@louisgarofalo3355]

so much valuable info ive learned over the years summarized in a few min, any non gearheads should be playing this on repeat

[@vintagehaynesflute]

I change the oil on my Mercedes every 5000 miles or twice a year with the temperature change (spring/winter) when the dealer suggests every 10 thousand miles. Spark plugs and coolant every 36 thousand miles and transmission flush every 50,000 miles. I know Mercedes ranks near the bottom for reliability but I think my maintenance schedule (rather that Mercedes factory recommendations) keeps from having problems that others have had. It’s expensive but not as expensive as a new engine ($25,000)! Bravo Dave!!

[@kleenk8]

Sage advice. I have my synthetic oil and filter changed every 4 thousand miles. Change out the sealed transmission fluid and filter every 40 thousand miles, and same for the coolant every two years. All OEM products. My 2006 purrs like a cat. Do components fail? Yes, but I control what I can by preventive measures and it works for me. Seeing the top of my engine during a valve gasket replacement, with the motor looking like new on the inside, is a great feeling.

[@alexmatthews2332]

Fluids and filters are the most important things! I run a tree and lawn service, have never replaced an engine. Fuel additives are important too! 420k miles on my 5.9 cummins, 200k + on the transmission, not sure if it was built when i bought it or not but its still fine!

[@ChevySS1968]

SPOT ON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! People mostly just shake their heads when I tell them I change oil/filter every 3-5k... they say 10k or 15k is the 'new normal' for these synthetic oils.

[@tman4915]

Couldn’t agree more. I bought a brand new 19 Dodge Journey. I change the oil every 3000 miles even though it says 5000 I change the transmission fluid every 30,000 miles even though it says every 60,000 and I just recently changed the coolant at 50,000. I know Chrysler’s get a lot of hate, but I feel as long as you change the fluids and filters quite often you should hardly have any issues with it. Everything nowadays is built, poorly and cheap. Built to sound not built to last. The only huge disappointment I had with this dodge was my transmission went out at 36,000 miles. Chrysler fixed it no questions asked and haven’t had a problem with it since knock on wood it doesn’t go out again.

[@spectech73]

for 33 years I have cut the manufacturer maintenance schedule in half. In 33 years I have never experienced a single engine issue. This man speaks the truth!!

[@missadda8890]

I almost learned this info the hard way my 2012 Camry started the dreaded Torque Converter shudder around 45mph at 78000 miles even though I had the firmware update under warranty when the car did not have any symptoms luckily my local transmission shop did a transmission service and the car drives like new they took a photo of the fluid and it was jet black , you are absolutely correct I salute your professionalism and honesty.

[@mikebee6530]

Thank you for being so honest sir. I'm gonna remember this forever

[@youfixitatvutv]

Just did my 60k service on my Ram 1500 8speed. It's amazing that the manufacturer says it never needs maintenance for it's lifetime. Well that lifetime will be short without proper fluid/filter services.

[@AlexKost-tq6bj]

Amen. More people need to hear your wise words.

[@JoshStout-wf3ry]

Reminds me of a guy that said his 01 f250 5.4 said the coolant was fine only 30k on truck he trashed the motor over a coolant flush .. but I use amsoil coolant in my 09 ram 5.7 dump a gallon out put a gallon in every year. Also have 2.7tt edge st and 17 ats 2.0t caddy it's amazing what good fuel and oil does on di turbos .. I'm in love with you I want to work for ya welder fabricator mechanic 30 years you are so knowledgeable I love ur machining ability..

[@catsupchutney]

I crewed on a sailboat with a propane leak. It had old cracked hoses. Like your story, I was trying to convince the owner to replace all the supply hoses. She was hearing none of it. That boat was a death trap.

[@Don-jz7or]

Hey Dave!! I have always changed oul and filter at 3000 miles. No matter what brand of vehicle or brand of oil. I have never lost an engine or tyranny yet. Oul is still your cheapest mechanic !!! Keep up the good work and videos!! Your the best!!

[@DrYosh2]

I totally agree! In automotive and small engines, I'd much rather put my time and effort into a well maintained machine. Yes, I make money either way. Changing abused parts or doing maintenance. But its really nice working on equipment for people who actually care about their stuff. I like seeing happy customers with a top performing machine.