(April 3, 2012) MISSISSAUGA, ON — Subaru Canada, Inc. has announced the introduction of a brand new 500,000-kilometer (310,685 miles) maintenance schedule for Subaru owners. According to Subaru's Canadian sales data and R.L. Polk Canadian registration data, 95.4 percent of Subaru vehicles sold in Canada over the last 10 years are still on the road today.

With these statistics in mind, Subaru Canada developed an extended maintenance schedule reflective of the needs of older vehicles.

"Similar to other auto manufacturers, we used to advise customers to follow the maintenance schedule up to 160,000 kilometers (100,000) and then start back at 6,000 kilometers," said Richard Marsan, Director of After Sales Planning and Strategy. "But just as a 66-year-old doesn't have the same metabolism as a 6-year-old, a vehicle with more than 160,000 kilometers does not have the same maintenance requirements as a newer vehicle."

This new comprehensive schedule was introduced after looking at data that suggests some vehicle owners cease following the recommended maintenance schedule after the warranty period ends.

"Manufacturers insist that customers follow a proper maintenance schedule when the vehicle is under warranty because it reduces warranty costs," said Marsan. "It surprises me that some customers neglect their vehicles once they are responsible for the full cost of vehicle repair. Especially since we know a well-maintained vehicle will rarely fail and require expensive repairs."

Subaru owners can download the new 500,000-kilometer maintenance schedule at Maintenance Guide.