How often should I service my Acura?
In most cases, follow Acura’s Maintenance Minder: routine service is typically every 7,500 miles or 12 months for normal driving, with more frequent intervals—about 5,000 miles or 6 months—if you drive under severe conditions. Always check the dashboard display and your owner’s manual for the exact schedule for your model and year.
Understanding Acura's Maintenance Minder
Acura cars equipped with Maintenance Minder monitor your driving habits and vehicle performance to determine when service is needed. The system uses data from the odometer and trip patterns to prompt maintenance, and it may display A or B schedule indicators. A represents a standard maintenance visit (oil change and basic inspections), while B adds additional tasks such as tire rotation and a broader inspection. The Minder adapts to how you drive, so the recommended interval can vary from one car to another.
Before you rely on a fixed mileage, note that the Minder is designed to tailor service needs to actual use. You may still see advisory indicators if fluids are low or wear is detected, even between routine milestones. Keep an eye on the display and consult your owner’s manual for model-specific guidance.
The following list outlines typical maintenance tasks these Minder prompts commonly cover:
- Oil and oil filter change when the system indicates (and at each required interval)
- Tire rotation and wheel alignment checks
- Brake system inspection and fluid level checks
- Inspection of belts, hoses, lights, wipers, and suspension components
- Replacement of cabin and engine air filters as recommended
Following these steps helps maintain engine efficiency, braking performance, and overall reliability, while supporting warranty coverage and resale value.
Recommended service intervals
Below are the general cadence categories you’ll commonly see referenced by Acura’s Maintenance Minder and owner guidance. The exact timing will depend on your model year and driving conditions, so always defer to the Minder and your manual.
- Normal driving: about every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. This typically includes an oil change, basic inspections, and tire checks.
- Severe driving or challenging conditions: about every 5,000 miles or 6 months. Conditions such as frequent short trips, extreme temperatures, heavy traffic, towing, or dusty environments can shorten intervals.
- Major service milestones: around 30,000, 60,000, and 90,000 miles (items vary by model). These visits involve more comprehensive inspections and replacements (for example, additional filter changes, fluid checks, and component inspections). Always refer to your model’s schedule for exact tasks.
The Minder will guide you toward the exact tasks and timing for your car, and a dealer can confirm model-specific requirements.
How to use the Maintenance Minder in your Acura
To stay on schedule, use the onboard Maintenance Minder and digital tools available for your model. The steps below help you maximize accuracy and convenience:
- Check the dashboard display regularly for maintenance codes and reminders
- Refer to the owner’s manual for what A or B codes mean on your specific model
- Use the My Acura app or dealer service history to track past work and upcoming needs
- Record service dates and mileage so you can plan ahead and avoid lapses
Keeping the Minder up to date helps ensure you don’t miss important services and supports optimal performance and warranty compliance.
Factors that can affect service timing
Several conditions can accelerate or delay maintenance needs beyond the baseline intervals. Consider these factors when planning service:
- Driving style and frequency of short trips
- Climate and temperature extremes
- Terrain, towing, and heavy payload usage
- Road conditions, dust, and humidity
- Odd or unusual warning lights or sensor readings
When in doubt, rely on the Maintenance Minder and consult your Acura dealer for a model-specific plan tailored to how you drive.
Bottom line
For most Acura owners, a cautious starting point is service every 7,500 miles or 12 months under normal conditions, with more frequent checks if you drive aggressively, tow loads, or operate in harsh environments. Use the Maintenance Minder as the primary guide, supplement it with dealer guidance, and maintain thorough service records to protect performance, reliability, and resale value.
Summary
Acura’s Maintenance Minder personalizes service intervals based on how you drive. Regularly consult the Minder, perform routine tasks like oil changes and tire rotations as prompted, and schedule major services at roughly 30k, 60k, and 90k miles or as advised for your model. Under severe conditions, expect shorter intervals. Keeping up with these practices helps maintain reliability, safety, and long-term value.
