
Secondary maintenance is a maintenance operation centered on inspection and adjustment for motor vehicles that have traveled a certain mileage. The mileage at which secondary maintenance should be performed varies among different brands and models, and the specific interval should be determined according to the maintenance manual of the particular vehicle model. The purpose of secondary maintenance is to maintain the good working performance of various components, mechanisms, and assemblies of the vehicle, ensuring their normal operation between two secondary maintenance sessions. The main content includes the following aspects: 1. Engine section: Inspect cylinder pressure or vacuum, clean carbon deposits in the combustion chamber and grind valves if necessary, adjust valve clearance, and check for oil leaks from oil seals and the rear bearing of the crankshaft. 2. Clutch and transmission section: Check the effectiveness of the clutch and the bolts of the bottom cover, adjust the free travel of the pedal, and apply grease to the pedal shaft.

I've been paying attention to maintenance since I bought my first car. The second-level maintenance is usually done when the car has run between 15,000 to 20,000 kilometers, which varies from person to person. If you often drive long distances or use the car in dusty environments, the interval may need to be shortened to around 12,000 kilometers; if you mainly drive short distances in the city, it can be appropriately extended to 22,000 kilometers. The purpose of maintenance is to thoroughly inspect the engine system, replace the oil filter and air filter, and also check the brake pads and tires. During my last second-level maintenance, I discovered a problem with the brakes, and it became much safer after timely repairs. Don't forget, regular maintenance not only extends the vehicle's lifespan but also avoids the risk of breaking down halfway. I recommend new drivers carefully check the owner's manual, which contains specific mileage suggestions, as this can save a lot of repair trouble.

With over thirty years of driving experience, the mileage for secondary maintenance depends on the vehicle model. For regular family cars, it's typically done every 15,000 to 18,000 kilometers; off-road or high-performance vehicles may require it as early as 10,000 kilometers due to faster engine wear. My own old car had it done at 20,000 kilometers, where fluids were replaced and the suspension system was checked, preventing a potential minor issue. Beyond mileage, timely checks are also necessary during significant weather changes, such as inspecting the air conditioning system before the rainy season. Experience has taught me that neglecting maintenance leads to higher repair costs—like the time a missed service resulted in bearing damage, costing thousands to fix. Developing the habit ensures smoother running and fewer problems.

The standard for secondary maintenance is every 10,000 to 20,000 kilometers. This range can be adjusted based on the manual and personal usage: it can be appropriately extended for short-distance driving, while shortened for aggressive driving. Maintenance includes replacing the oil filter, air filter, and chassis inspection. Maintaining the interval ensures safety and efficiency.


