Dear Driving for Dollars, I just bought a new car and was reading through the owner's manual when I noticed it says that my warranty may be voided if I don't have the car serviced every 10,000 miles. Do they really enforce this? Does this mean I have to keep proof for several years that I've met the requirements? Or is this all just to scare me into keeping it lubricated? -- Frugal FrankDear Frank, Always follow the manufacturer's oil-change schedule and keep receipts in a file. While it's unlikely you will ever refer to them, they will be worth their weight in gold if you have major engine problems related to lubrication failure.Toyota has had a run of problems with some engines failing due to sludge in the system. Some owners have had problems getting replacement engines without documentation of regular, on-time oil and filter changes. But don't go overboard and change oil more often than recommended by the manufacturer -- that's just wasting money.This weekIt's all about cars and your cashDo you have to agree to arbitration to buy a new car?How much or how little should I put on my "car-for-sale" sign?Can warranty be voided for not meeting maintenance schedule? advertisementRelated Links:What's best: Repair an old car or buy new?5 sweet luxury cars under $35,000Don't let a car go unfixed in a car recallRelated Articles:Buying a car in SeptemberReturning a lemon carAuto loan rates
Dear Driving for Dollars, I just bought a new car and was reading through the owner's manual when I noticed it says that my warranty may be voided if I don't have the car serviced every 10,000 miles. Do they really enforce this? Does this mean I have to keep proof for several years that I've met the requirements? Or is this all just to scare me into keeping it lubricated? -- Frugal Frank
Dear Frank, Always follow the manufacturer's oil-change schedule and keep receipts in a file. While it's unlikely you will ever refer to them, they will be worth their weight in gold if you have major engine problems related to lubrication failure.
Toyota has had a run of problems with some engines failing due to sludge in the system. Some owners have had problems getting replacement engines without documentation of regular, on-time oil and filter changes. But don't go overboard and change oil more often than recommended by the manufacturer -- that's just wasting money.
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