PMS

            No, it’s not the Premenstrual Syndrome but, rather, the Periodic Maintenance Service of a vehicle.

            What is PMS? – the latter

            It is an essential SERVICE performed PERIODICALLY to a vehicle in order to MAINTAIN good performance and find problems before they become serious.

            It will aid in:

                    Good fuel economy
                    Long vehicle life
                    Driving enjoyment
                    Safety
                    Reliability

            The service interval is determined by the odometer reading or time interval – generally, every 5,000 kilometers or three (3) months, whichever comes first.

            More frequent PMS is required for severe road conditions (operating on rough, muddy, or dusty roads) and/or driving conditions (repeated short trips – less than 8 kms., extensive idling, low speed driving for a long distance, or continuous high speed driving for over 2 hours).

            To comply with the warranty coverage (for brand new cars), the PMS must be done by any of the manufacturer’s authorized dealer (casa).  Otherwise, it may void the warranty.  The warranty period is 3 years or 100,000 kilometers, whichever comes first.   To save on  PMS cost, some car owners go to lower rated shops, especially after the warranty period.

            For more detailed and specific maintenance schedule and procedures, the Owner’s Manual must be consulted and referred to; as they vary depending on the manufacturer’s specifications and the type and use of the vehicle.

            My car (Innova J – VVTi) has already reached 45,000 kms (2 years and 4 months old). The PMS was performed yesterday (June 6) by Toyota Makati, Inc.  I used to bring my car for PMS to Toyota Commonwealth – where I purchased the car.  Since I work in Makati, I now preferred Toyota Makati to perform the PMS, for convenience.  I’d just bring my car at the appointed date and time and leave the car while it is being serviced then proceed to my office to work.  I’d return in the afternoon and redeem the car.