The 50K Mark
 

Ok so I recently hit the 50K mark and I was wondering if anyone could give me some advice on the types of services I should start to perform on my car. All opinions are welcome. Thanks in advance!!

-Ant

RE: The 50K Mark
 

Transmisson oil and filter change is all that I can think of on today's modern cars.

Have you checked your owner's manual?

Maybe fuel and air filters?

RE: The 50K Mark
 

Air Filter:
I have a K&N intake on the car, I'll be cleaning that later today.

Fuel Filter:
I'll have to look into the fuel filter that was a good call I"m sure thats a do-at-home service.

Transmission:
The Tranny filter and oil was done not too long ago, however the fluid in the converter was not removed, just a simple pan drop and filter change w/refill, so perhaps it maybe time to look into that service as well.

Cooling System:
Perhaps a drian and refill with new dexcool, maybe a new thermostat.


would it be better to just do a coolant flush?

-Ant

RE: The 50K Mark
 

My friend who owned a radiator shop for 30 years says the safest thing to do is just disconnect the upper hose and run water from a garden hose through it for 15-20 minutes.

I've never had a problem.

RE: The 50K Mark
 

I know on the 06's and 07's, the fuel filter is listed as a "non-servicable item"... and it's inside the gas tank...

dunno about your 05 though...

RE: The 50K Mark
 

Damn, I'm almost there myself, 47k I think, which will probably last about a month...

RE: The 50K Mark
 

06monteSS is correct, the fuel filter is in the tank. Granted an older car, but on my 96 Grand Prix it was in the tank, on the top. Best way to do it is with a lift and something to lower the tank (can't recall the correct name of the tool). Also, do it on an empty tank. I tried it on that Grand Prix, but once I un hooked the fuel lines the fuel starts to pour out even after following a service manual's suggestions to make sure all gas was out of the engine side. I ended up putting it back together and paying someone to do it.

I'm pretty sure the manual "claims" the colling system is good to 100k miles. However, it's such a cheap and easy DIY job, that it can't hurt. I have heard good things abotu the garden hose method as well. Also if you're doing it the thermostat is a must do b/c sometimes they seize up and it's only abotu a $7 part last time I checked - might as well do it while your'e in there, and not waste any more coolant coming back for it.

RE: The 50K Mark
 

I think I may just do the cooling system early just to get it out of the way. Cant hurt.

-Anthony