Ford Explorer Maintenance Schedule

What is a Maintenance Schedule?

No matter the make or model, every car comes with a specially designed maintenance schedule. A maintenance schedule lists all the essential services a vehicle needs and when. Even between the same brands and model years, services may take a left turn, so it’s best to review your guide to your car.

Check Every Month

Every month you should check the oil level in your car. Since you most likely won’t need an oil change, if your car is somewhat low, we can top it off for you, or you can purchase motor oil at your discount retailer or an auto parts store.

Check Every Six Months

All brakes can be inspected, including your standard brakes, the parking brake, and the anti-lock braking system. It’s best to top off the coolant and windshield wiper fluid as well.

Every 7,500 Miles

An oil change for your Explorer should be done around the 7,500-mile marker. Your car may not feel like it’s moving slower, but debris and dust collect in the oil, which taints the performance. The oil lubricates all the moving parts under the hood, so a fresh batch and a new filter will improve it again.

What to Check Before 10,000 Miles

Some areas of your car should be checked before your odometer reaches the 10,000-mile mark. If a service technician spots anything out of the ordinary, they can resolve it at this time.

Tire rotations should be completed within this timeframe. A tire rotation consists of switching the front and rear tires, so that they wear out evenly and produce a smooth ride.

Although most manufacturers recommend that brake pads can last up to 50,000 miles, it’s a good idea to get a service tech to measure them starting now. That way, you’ll know when it’s time for a new set for your Explorer.

Check Every Three Years

New brake fluid should be put into your Ford Explorer after three years. This lubricates all the parts that make up the braking system so that no parts grate against each other instead of moving smoothly.

Check Between 20,000 Miles

At this milestone, the cabin air filter should be replaced. Like your oil, the filter collects all the dirt, debris, and allergens from the outdoors. With a new filter, you can breathe cleaner again.

Replace at 100,000 Miles

Spark plugs should be replaced around 100,000 miles. The spark plug performs a simple yet vital function for your car: It sends an electric jolt that activates the air-fuel mixture, turning your Ford Explorer engine on.