A closer look reveals that thirty percent failed due to worn belts and hoses. It gets worse. These statistics help remind us to change the oil each season and rotate the tires every six months or as recommended in the owner's manual. There's wheel alignment, cooling system, brakes and other systems and components needing periodic attention. The owner's manual is a good place to start.
Some car companies go so far as to break their service recommendations down month by month.
The Council suggests reading the owner's manual carefully then keeping track of all maintenance. If you keep good records you won't duplicate any maintenance procedures. And a well cared for car, with maintenance records to prove it, is worth a lot more in trade than the same car in average condition.