At Arnie Bauer Buick GMC, we know that regular oil changes and tire rotations are the basics of keeping your vehicle running smoothly. But what about the other services your Buick or GMC needs to stay reliable for years to come? Around 30,000 miles, it’s important to start considering key preventative maintenance like brake fluid flushes, coolant service, filter replacements, and transmission fluid flushes. Ignoring these services can lead to costly repairs down the road — and even shorten the life of your vehicle.
Whether you drive a Buick Encore GX around Matteson or a GMC Sierra for work, these often-overlooked maintenance items are just as important as the basics in keeping your vehicle performing at its best.
1. Cabin & Engine Air Filters
Dirty filters reduce airflow, hurt fuel economy, and make your HVAC system work harder. Cabin air filters keep dust, pollen, and contaminants out of your vehicle’s interior, while engine air filters protect your engine from harmful debris. These should be checked regularly and replaced as needed — especially if you drive in dusty or rural areas around Matteson and the surrounding Chicagoland suburbs.

2. Brake Fluid Service
Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which can lead to corrosion in your brake system and reduced stopping power. We recommend a brake fluid flush every 30,000 miles or 2–3 years (depending on your driving habits) to keep your brakes performing safely — especially during Illinois winters when road salt can speed up corrosion.
3. Cooling System Service
Your engine’s coolant doesn’t just keep it from overheating; it also protects against corrosion inside your radiator and engine block. Over time, coolant breaks down and loses its protective qualities. Starting around 30,000 miles, flushing and replacing it helps prevent overheating, freezing, and costly engine repairs.
4. Throttle Body Service
A dirty throttle body can cause rough idling, poor acceleration, and decreased fuel efficiency. Cleaning it ensures smooth airflow into the engine, which improves performance and helps your Buick or GMC run like new.

5. Transmission Service
Transmission fluid keeps your gears shifting smoothly, but it breaks down over time — especially if you tow, haul, or drive in heavy traffic. For most Buick and GMC models, we recommend a transmission flush around 30,000-60,000 miles to help avoid expensive transmission repairs later.
5. Fuel System Cleaning Service
Over time, carbon deposits can build up in your fuel injectors, intake valves, and combustion chambers, reducing engine performance and fuel efficiency. A fuel system cleaning service helps remove these deposits, ensuring proper fuel flow and cleaner combustion. This service can improve acceleration, restore lost power, and even help lower emissions.
We recommend considering a fuel system cleaning around 30,000 miles or sooner if you notice sluggish performance, rough idling, or decreased gas mileage. Keeping your Buick or GMC’s fuel system clean not only enhances performance but also helps extend the life of your engine.
Why Choose Arnie Bauer Buick GMC for Maintenance in Matteson, IL
Our certified technicians use GM-approved parts and fluids to ensure your vehicle stays in peak condition. Plus, we keep detailed service records, so you’ll always know what’s due next.
Schedule Your Maintenance Today

Not sure if it’s time for your next service? Schedule a free multi-point inspection at Arnie Bauer Buick GMC and our certified technicians will check your fuel system — along with brakes, filters, fluids, and more — to see if any maintenance is needed. It’s a quick, no-cost way to catch issues early and keep your Buick or GMC running like new.
Don’t wait until you have a breakdown. Stay ahead of problems with preventative maintenance at Arnie Bauer Buick GMC in Matteson, IL. Call us today or schedule online to keep your vehicle ready for every mile — from daily commutes in Matteson to road trips across Illinois.
📍 Arnie Bauer Buick GMC
5525 Miller Circle Dr. Matteson, IL 60443
708-938-3137
Frequently Asked Questions About Buick & GMC Maintenance in Matteson, IL
Q: How often should I flush my brake fluid?
A: Most Buick and GMC models should have their brake fluid flushed every 2–3 years or as recommended in the owner’s manual. At Arnie Bauer Buick GMC in Matteson, we inspect your brake system during routine service and let you know when it’s due.
Q: When should I replace my cabin air filter?
A: Typically every 12,000–15,000 miles, but sooner if you notice reduced airflow or unpleasant odors. Driving in urban traffic, dusty conditions, or pollen-heavy seasons may require more frequent changes.
Q: How do I know if my throttle body needs cleaning?
A: Common signs include rough idling, poor acceleration, and decreased fuel economy. Our technicians can inspect and clean it during a scheduled service to restore performance.
Q: When should I schedule a transmission flush?
A: For most Buick and GMC vehicles, we recommend between 60,000–100,000 miles, or sooner if you tow, haul, or drive in stop-and-go traffic.
Q: Can I combine multiple maintenance services in one visit?
A: Yes! We often recommend bundling services like oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid flushes to save you time and keep your vehicle in peak condition.


