Auto Repair Questions

[Schneed10]

I'm known for a few things around these Warpath parts; I can hit you over the head with mad salary cap info, and I'm a grumpy old fart in the morning.

But one thing I know absolutely squadoosh about is auto repair. So if you got knowledge in this area, hit me over the head with it!

My wife and I own a 2001 Pontiac Grand Am (6 cyl) with 58,000 miles, and a 1999 Toyota Camry (4 cyl) with 88,000 miles.

First question: Your car comes with a maintenance schedule, showing what needs to be done every 5000 miles. I certainly understand that oil changes need to be done every 3000-5000 miles, brake pads need replacing, tires need rotating, belts need replacing, etc. But what else is necessary? Maybe someone can go through this list and tell me what's really needed:

Transmission fluid flush
Brake fluid flush
Power steering fluid flush
Fuel injection system cleansing

Second question: What other tasks are really necessary to perform on your car on a routine basis?

Third question: Are there any tasks that are commonly believed to be necessary, but really aren't needed?

Fourth question: The Pontiac just needed new brake pads and rotors. What causes the rotors to need replacing? Is there a way to avoid this?

Fifth question: If you're someone who does his own car repairs, please don't answer this one. If you take your car to mechanics/dealerships for repair, how often do you experience a repair bill over $300? How often for over $500?

Just trying to learn more and do my best not to get hosed. Thanks guys.