What is the Honda maintenance schedule?
The Honda maintenance schedule is typically centered around Honda’s Maintenance Minder system, with oil changes around every 5,000 miles (about 8,000 km) or six months, plus tire rotations and inspections at that interval. Exact items and timing vary by model, year, and driving conditions.
The Maintenance Minder uses a coding system (A and B, and sometimes numeric cues) to tell you what needs service and when. It considers engine data and driving conditions to guide maintenance, but your owner’s manual provides model-specific details and there are variations across Honda’s lineup. Keeping a maintenance log and following the dash prompts will help preserve performance and resale value.
How the Maintenance Minder Works
Most Honda vehicles built in the late 2000s onward use the Maintenance Minder to flag upcoming service. The system analyzes how you drive and the engine’s condition, then displays A or B service codes (and, in some models, a numeric countdown) to indicate what maintenance is due and when.
What the codes mean
A service code typically covers the core items needed at that interval, while a B code adds more comprehensive checks and replacements. The exact items tied to A or B can vary by model, so consult your owner’s manual or a Honda dealer to see the precise checklist for your car.
Typical service milestones
The following are general mile-marker guidelines that apply to many Honda models. Exact items and timing depend on the engine type, model year, and driving conditions, so always verify with the owner’s manual or dealer.
5,000 miles (about 8,000 km) — A service
- Oil and oil filter change
- Tire rotation
- Brake inspection and fluid level checks
- Inspection of belts, hoses, lights, wipers, and steering components
- Maintenance Minder reset after service
Regular A service is the foundation of Honda’s maintenance approach and is designed to keep the engine running smoothly between longer intervals.
10,000 miles (about 16,000 km) — B service
- Oil and oil filter change
- Tire rotation
- Air filter check or replacement (engine air filter) and cabin air filter inspection/replacement as needed
- Brake inspection and fluid checks
- Fluid level checks (coolant, transmission, brake, power steering)
- Multi-point inspection of major systems (tires, steering, suspension, exhaust, and drivetrain)
The B service adds more thorough filtration and system checks beyond the basic A service, helping catch wear before it becomes a problem.
15,000–30,000 miles — filters and inspections
- Engine air filter replacement (if not done at 10k) and cabin air filter replacement
- Brake fluid check/flush as recommended by model and usage
- Coolant level and condition check; top up or replace as needed
- Battery condition check; corrosion and charging system assessment
- Belts and hoses inspection; belt replacement if wear is detected
During this range, many Hondas begin periodic replacements of consumables and more extensive inspections to maintain long-term reliability.
60,000–100,000 miles — major maintenance items
- Spark plug replacement (engine-dependent; many models around 100,000 miles)
- Transmission fluid service for automatics (intervals vary by model; commonly around 60,000 miles or as recommended)
- Timing belt (if applicable) or timing chain inspection/maintenance (belt-driven engines typically between 60,000 and 100,000 miles)
- Coolant replacement (often around 100,000 miles)
- Drive belts/serpentine belt replacement if needed
- Water pump replacement may be performed in conjunction with timing belt replacement on some engines
As engines and transmissions have evolved, some models have maintenance intervals that differ considerably. Always verify with your owner’s manual for model-specific milestones and procedures.
How to follow the schedule for your Honda
To stay on track, follow the Maintenance Minder prompts in your dash display and consult your owner’s manual for model-specific intervals. If you’re unsure, your Honda dealer or trusted mechanic can pull the exact service plan for your VIN and driving habits.
Summary
Honda’s maintenance schedule centers on the Maintenance Minder system, with a common core service at about 5,000 miles (oil change and basic inspections) and additional steps at 10,000 miles and beyond. Over the life of the vehicle, expect filter replacements, fluid services, and major component checks at longer intervals (60,000–100,000 miles) depending on model and driving conditions. For accuracy, always refer to your owner’s manual and rely on the dash codes as your primary guide to service needs, keeping a detailed maintenance log for best results.
