Can You Continue Driving Without Maintenance When It's Time for Car Service?

[McPaislee]

You can continue driving. However, it's necessary to check various filters and replace those that are severely worn out as soon as possible. It's also best to perform maintenance on time. Below are some relevant details about car maintenance: 1. Brake Fluid Replacement: The brake fluid must be replaced every two years or 50,000 kilometers, and the brake warning system and brake booster should be inspected. For manual transmission vehicles, the transmission gear oil should be replaced every 12 months or 5,000 kilometers. 2. Precautions: If the maintenance reminder light comes on, it's best to perform maintenance as soon as possible. If vehicle malfunctions are detected and resolved promptly, it can also help improve the vehicle's resale value.

[JaylaLynn]

I've been driving for over a decade, and I used to forget about maintenance too. Actually, delaying it by 200-300 kilometers is temporarily manageable, but don't make it a habit. When engine oil deteriorates, its lubricating effect diminishes, leading to increased internal engine wear. I've seen someone spend tens of thousands on major repairs because of this. A clogged air filter can cause fuel consumption to skyrocket, and not changing the cabin air filter fills the car with dust. The braking system demands even more attention—expired brake fluid can lengthen stopping distances. Once on a rainy day, I almost rear-ended someone because of this. The safest approach is to set reminders on your phone and get your car checked around its maintenance schedule. Don't let your beloved vehicle work while sick.

[ErinRose]

I have a deep understanding of car maintenance. Last week, my neighbor's car exceeded the service interval by 2,000 kilometers, and the engine suddenly triggered a warning light, costing 800 yuan just for the tow truck. Short-term delays won't cause immediate breakdowns, but deteriorated engine oil accelerates carbon buildup, which can lead to piston ring sticking over time. If tire rotation isn't done promptly, uneven wear on the four wheels can be particularly dangerous at high speeds. Mold growth in the air conditioning system affects health, and worn-out brake pads can damage the brake discs when pushed to their limits. The maintenance intervals set by manufacturers are scientifically based, so it's best for regular car owners to stick to the schedule. If you really can't make it on time, try to keep the delay within 500 kilometers to avoid the consequences outweighing the benefits.

[LeNorah]

I often encounter delayed maintenance when repairing cars. A car can still run without maintenance, but it's like drinking expired milk—just because you don't get sick immediately doesn't mean it's safe. Engine oil oxidizes after six months, reducing its fluidity and increasing engine wear. Clogged filters lead to insufficient air intake, causing the engine to consume more fuel. Degraded coolant performance may cause the radiator to overheat, especially during summer heat. I recommend at least checking fluid levels—wipe the dipstick clean and reinsert it to check. If it's below the minimum mark, go immediately—don't gamble with your engine.