I have a 2002 Tacoma and just had it in to the dealership for the 5000 mile maintenance as described in the service manual. THe dealership did an oil change, inspection and rotate/balance the tires. Afterwards, they informed me to return in 3000 miles for another oil change. I replied that my owner's manual said oil changes every 5000 for "sever" driving and 7500 for "normal" driving. I was told that this was wrong and that oil shold always be changed 3000 miles but for all other service the manual was correct. What gives? Should I go every 3000 miles for a change or what? HELP

 

Yes, do yourself a favor and keep with the "old school" service interval of 3,000 miles.

Here is the deal. When you purchase a car, the sticker in the window is going to tell you an estimated amount of money youll need to spend for maintenance per year. The manufacters are trying to lower the advertised amount of money youll need to spend per year. Do NOT fall for this Bull˟˟˟˟.

Every 3000 miles - Change oil and filter.

Every other oil change - Rotate your tires ( front to back ) and inspect the brakes.

Every 15000 miles change your Drive train fluids ( diff's, trans, transfer case oils. )

Every 30000 miles change the coolant and spark plugs ( non-platnuim tips plugs)

Every 60,000 change the timing belt and inspect the water pump.

Thats my suggestion.

Jay

 

The service manager just phoned me to "clarify and misunderstandings" I might have had with his technician. He stated that the 3000 mile was a good "rule of thumb" but to keep my warranty I just needed to follow the 5000 in the manual. However, he went on to tell me that if I wanted the truck to last and ever considered adding a TRD 'charger to the truck, I had better change the oil every 2500 miles. What gives? I thanked him for his call and consern -- but it sure seemed strange to me.

Thanks for that quick reply above, I think I will stick to a 3000 mile oil change schedule and just do all other maintenance by their book.