At how many kilometers should a sedan undergo its first major maintenance?
3 Answers
Generally, vehicles need to undergo a major maintenance when they reach 30,000 kilometers. The relevant details are as follows: 1. Typically, vehicles should be cleaned every 5,000 kilometers, and the air filter must be replaced every 10,000 kilometers. Major maintenance is based on minor maintenance. 2. Major maintenance requires replacing components such as the engine oil and oil filter, air filter, fuel filter, power steering fluid, and spark plugs. Additional information is as follows: 1. Most sedan engines use a spin-on oil filter, which is a non-cleanable, disposable filter. When changing the lubricating oil, the oil filter must also be replaced; otherwise, it may affect the quality of the lubricating oil. The replacement cycle for engine oil and oil filters is generally also 5,000 kilometers. 2. Currently, most car engines use a dry-type air filter with a paper filter element, which is lightweight, low-cost, easy to replace, and highly efficient. It should generally be cleaned every 5,000 kilometers. During cleaning, the filter element should be taken out and gently tapped on the end face, and compressed air should be blown from the inside out to remove dust from the element. Avoid washing it with gasoline or water. The air filter must be replaced every 25,000 kilometers.
I've been driving sedans for over a decade, and the first major maintenance is usually most appropriate when the car reaches around 10,000 kilometers. After purchasing a new car and going through the break-in period, the parts gradually adapt to operating conditions, and a comprehensive check-up is needed at the 10,000-kilometer mark. This includes changing the engine oil and oil filter, cleaning the air filter, inspecting brake pads and tire wear, tightening chassis bolts, etc. Don't delay it too long—I remember my first car didn't get serviced until 15,000 kilometers, and we discovered a minor suspension issue. Early maintenance helps prevent problems and avoids the hassle of breaking down. Daily driving habits also affect maintenance timing. If you frequently drive on highways or in city traffic jams, parts wear out faster, so it's advisable to schedule a visit to a reliable repair shop sooner rather than later.
When I first bought my car, I was quite confused about when to start the first major maintenance. After consulting friends and checking online forums, the general consensus was that it's usually reliable to do it after 10,000 kilometers. After the break-in period of a new car, the system stabilizes, making it quite necessary to perform a comprehensive maintenance, such as changing the engine oil and filters, and checking the electrical equipment. I personally did mine at 12,000 kilometers, and the technician also adjusted the transmission system, which worked out well. Beyond this point, fuel consumption may slightly increase, and minor issues can accumulate easily, so don't neglect regular maintenance. Especially for new drivers, developing a maintenance habit early on makes driving more reassuring.
