100k miles is commonly thought of as the major service for every vehicle but what does that entail? What are the benefits and what happens if it's not done?
 

What is the 100k service?

The 100k service is the service that is done at 100,000 miles, but seriously though, what is it?

The services recommended by the manufacturer at 100k vary by vehicle but some common examples are spark plugs, fuel system/induction cleaning service, timing belt, valve adjustment and more. Some vehicles have their major service slightly offset from 100k miles in order to make them coincide with a regular oil change. It is always best to consult your owners manual or a trusted automotive repair shop to find out what is recommended for your vehicle, but here is a common example:

2012 Honda Pilot 105k Service

• Replace Spark Plugs
• Replace Timing Belt
• Inspect and Adjust Valve Clearance
• Replace Automatic Transmission Fluid
• Replace Engine Oil and Oil Filter
• General Maintenance Inspection

What Are The Benefits of the 100K Service?

All of the services involved in 100k are designed to extend the life of the vehicle and prevent premature failure. Replacing vital fluids in the vehicle keep the engine and transmission lubricated and running smoothly, preventing premature wear. Replacing spark plugs and timing belts make them much less likely to fail, reducing the risk of leaving you stuck on the side of the road. Finally, any general maintenance inspection by a qualified mechanic can help find minor issues before they become major ones.

What Happens if the 100k Service is Not Done?

Maintenance is the difference between a reliable vehicle and an unreliable one. In many cases, the 100k service can be the difference between an engine and vehicle that lasts a bit over 100,000 miles and one that goes to 200,000 and beyond. Old spark plugs in particular can cause misfires that can leave you stranded or damage the catalytic converter, another expensive component of the vehicle. Timing belts and valve clearance adjustments can actually be the difference between a running engine and a failed one. Poor valve adjustment can lead to premature camshaft wear, requiring costly internal engine repair. If the timing belt breaks, the synchronization between the valves and the crankshaft is lost and the valves can hit the pistons. This not only would leave the car immobile but could destroy the engine internally, requiring an extensive rebuild or total engine replacement.

Proper vehicle maintenance is essential for the efficiency, reliability and longevity of your vehicle. The 100k service is a major part of keeping your car on the road and money in your pocket!

Time to schedule your 100k service? You can do that here.