Do pedals need to be serviced?
 

I'm using Shimano SPD mountain bike pedals and have done "zero" maintenance on them in the last five years. Do I need to do anything special to keep them going for as long as possible?

TIA...

If it feels like they're adjusted properly and smooth, they're probably fine.

I use vintage pedals, mostly kkt or Campy. I always fully overhaul them when I first get them. And only service them if they lose their adjustment, like in a pedal strike.

It depends on the pedal, as others have said. When I get a bike for general service, I do inspect pedals for bearing adjustment, and often recommend a re-build and relubrication.

If I'm selling a set, then I do service them beforehand.

Shimano SPDs are very durable pedals and don't require a lot of maintenance. They do get to a point though, where an overhaul makes a noticeable difference. Over the summer I serviced two or three pairs that have been in use pretty constantly for about five or six years.

If the axle turns smoothly and there's no play, they don't need service. I have some 35 year old Dura-Ace PD-7400 pedals that have never been serviced and they're just fine. Shimano included the special wrench to open and adjust the bearings, but I've never had to use it.