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BRAKES AND ROTORS
Nearly all cars these days have front disc brakes. Front brakes usually wear out more quickly than the rear brakes (which could either be disc or drum brakes), so they need to be changed more often. You need to change brake pads when they get too thin, especially if they begin to make a persistent metallic squeaking or grinding noise when you press the brake pedal. But noise alone isn't always the best indicator, so it's best to anticipate when this will happen by periodically inspecting the thickness of the brake pads.
Note: If the front end of the car vibrates when you apply the brakes, your brake rotors may be warped. If the rotors appear grooved or uneven, they may be scored. In either case the rotors may also need to be replaced or "turned" on a brake lathe by a professional.
CAR SERVICING
Car owners usually become aware of the need for routine maintenance at certain mileage intervals. These intervals are described in the owner's manual.
Changing your oil every 3,500 miles as "recommended" by the quick oil change chains and car dealerships is typically necessary. Again, look to the owner's manual for proper scheduled car maintenance intervals.
Some vehicles will even have a reminder display indicating that a service, typically an oil change, is required at a certain mileage point.
Still other vehicles will use a "maintenance minder," which will only become illuminated when the work is actually required. A computer in the car's engine makes a calculation based on a number of factors that more accurately determine the time at which oil begins to break down.