My car has low miles (~15k, 2 yrs) and I do autox and track occasionally. Should I go by the maintenance by miles or by time? How much different does that make?

 

Time AND miles are both important for different parts of the car. Rubber parts (Belts etc...) such as belts wear out over time as much as they do due to wear. Oil viscocity can also break down slowly over time, so changing that out every 3 mos can be a good idea as well. I usually go by the "Whichever comes first" rule. Cant be too careful you know?

 

I do an oil change every 10,000,000 engine revolutions.

 

Ed is correct, IMHO. Whichever comes first... Although I also drive low milages, and think every 6 months is probably ok for oil IF you haven't exceeded the 3750 miles.

 

A mechanic once told me..... even if the car is sitting and not being driven, dust and contaminants can get into the oil. If the car is sitting for long periods of time (ie: for the winter) the oil should be changed when the car is taken out of storage.


The service rep at the dealer where I bought my S ( He also owns an S and is a member of this board ) told me that the oil in our car starts to break down and consume it's self at 2000 miles esp when living in VTECH Land (Extreme Heat). He suggested to me to have the oil changed at 2000 miles when driving habits are at high RPMs.

 

I agree with whichever comes first. I once asked the service department the same question and they told me not to worry about time, only follow the "miles" schedule!!

 

OK- Here's my serious answer for the low-mileage user.

Time:

Brake fluid
Clutch fluid
Accessory Belt
Coolant
Brake inspections (not garaged)
Motor Oil - If you do short trips (<5 miles summer, <10 miles winter)

Miles:

Engine Air Filter
Micron Filter
Transmission Oil
Differential Oil
Spark Plugs
Valve Adjustment
Brake inspections (garaged)
Motor Oil - If you do longer trips