Maintenance services are usually recommended either by mileage or time. The last several articles I have mentioned that time and time again. We will use oil changes as an example to be performed every 3 months of 3,000 miles. So which is it? Time or mileage?
Most people average 15,000 miles a year and now since the Covid-19 Pandemic the average person is now driving a lot less. The statistics from US Dept of Transportation shows that based on the first half of 2020 at least 20% less. So the quick answer would be whichever comes first, the time or the mileage.
The less you drive your vehicle the more extreme driving conditions your vehicle is facing. The more extreme the driving conditions the more often it needs service. Fluids, rubber, gaskets and seals can deteriorate by time and lack of use. Not driving a car long enough to warm up properly, or to get the fuel system cleaned out by driving at a freeway speed, or to keep the seals and gaskets lubricated with circulating fluids can cause further issues. Seals and gaskets that are not lubricated will become dry then they shrink and crack, this can cause leaks. The fluids can also break down and not do the job of lubricating, cleaning and conditioning of the system they are designed to work in.
If you want to keep your vehicle in tip top shape, maintain it, take care of issues when they are small and follow the mileage or time whichever comes first motto. Happy Motoring!