[ZairLovesAccord]

Hey guys,

I just picked up a 2015 Accord EX-L from my buddy’s grandma. Car runs smooth and feels new, but she honestly couldn’t remember the last time stuff was done (oil, trans fluid, brake fluid, etc.).

I do have receipts but I’m not sure how to read them or line them up with what Honda says needs to be done. Oil life shows 100% right now, but I know that doesn’t mean much.

I’m 20, brand new driver, and I wanna keep this car forever (shooting for 300–400k kms). I can do basic DIY with YouTube, but don’t wanna mess up the important stuff.

So should I just start fresh with all fluids, or go through the receipts and piece it together? Any advice from experienced Accord owners would really help.

Thanks.

 

[ActnJksn]

Unless you know for sure, I'd go fresh fluids. That's what I did.

 

[DerekWildstar]

Unless you know for sure, I'd go fresh fluids. That's what I did.

I concur. Fresh fluids (and filters) to bring it into a known state, then start following a maintenance schedule (I use the maintenance minder, although others create their own schedule... the important thing is to be following some type of routine/schedule). Once you're into a routine, then also keep an eye out for any issues that my crop up along the way - fix small problems before they become major concerns.

And then just drive it - good luck!

 

[WiiMaster]

Well, what's the current mileage (or "kilometrage" as the case may be)?

 

[ZairLovesAccord]

Unless you know for sure, I'd go fresh fluids. That's what I did.

Which all Fluids From the top of my head, i Guess Oil, trans fluid, brake fluid, Coolant and maybe windshield washer?

 

[ZairLovesAccord]

Well, what's the current mileage (or "kilometrage" as the case may be)?

It has 81k kms on it. Translating to about 50k miles.

 

[Iirot]

An oil analysis would give you some insight regarding the engine's health. I use Blackstone, but I think most of the reputable labs are as good.

Also, if it has the four cylinder engine it wouldn't hurt to install an oil catch can since it only has 50k miles.

 

[mtts60]

Which all Fluids From the top of my head, i Guess Oil, trans fluid, brake fluid, Coolant and maybe windshield washer?

Yes, and in that order.

The windshield washer fluid is only replaced when you need to.

 

[ZairLovesAccord]

Yes, and in that order.

The windshield washer fluid is only replaced when you need to.

Thanks. Would you recommend buying those fluids myself and hand them to the mechanic to do the labour or just take my car and let the mechanic do everything?

 

[mtts60]

Not all shops will allow owners to provide the parts because the shop can't warranty them.

Since you're new to this, I'd say you can handle changing the oil and oil filter. Maybe the transmission fluid too, but it doesn't have a dip stick to check the level (you remove a 'check bolt'), so it's a bit more complicated to get proper level. Coolant also isn't hard but if you don't purge the air bubbles out after filling, you can have problems.

So, again, since you're new at this, the coolant and brake fluid may be best left to a shop.

 

[KW2004Accord]

By changing all the fluids you are establishing a baseline. Is it a 2.4 or V6 engine ? Make sure the coolant is Honda oem, Zerex Asian Blue or Peak (blue) brands as they have the exact same formula (mixing different kinds of coolants can ruin the heater core which can be very expensive to replace). Don't get talked into a "all makes all models" brand that many shops use. Honda transmission fluid only instead of a shops brand that they carry like BG, Mighty, etc. NO transmission "flushes" where they use a machine, a drain / fill only. They can measure the water content in the brake fluid to tell if you need it changed (usually every 3 yrs.). Air filter & cabin filter you can do yourself, just note the orientation when you take the old one out. Check the condition of the serpentine belt.