Car Maintenance by Mileage or Time?
2 Answers
Whichever comes first. Here are the relevant details: 1. If the car is driven infrequently and the mileage hasn't been reached, maintenance should still be performed on schedule at the 4S shop when the time comes. If the car is driven frequently and the mileage is reached first, maintenance should be done without delay even if the scheduled time hasn't arrived. 2. Car maintenance intervals - Engine oil (1) Mineral oil, Time interval: 6 months; Mileage interval: 5000Km (2) Synthetic oil, Time interval: 8 months; Mileage interval: 8000Km~10000Km 3. Car maintenance intervals - Transmission oil (1) Manual transmission oil, Time interval: 5 years; Mileage interval: 100000Km (2) Automatic transmission oil, Time interval: 3 years; Mileage interval: 60000Km 4. In all cases, whichever comes first applies.
I drive quite frequently, and the mileage has long reached the maintenance standard, so I basically follow the mileage for maintenance. For example, in my last maintenance record, I drove 8,000 kilometers before changing the oil and oil filter. The technician at the shop said that changing it on time is generally fine, but if the car sits idle for too long without being started, the oil may deteriorate over time, affecting engine performance and leading to carbon buildup. So, I’ve concluded that if you drive a lot, you should mainly focus on the mileage, but occasionally check the last maintenance date to ensure it doesn’t exceed six months. Maintaining your car promptly does save a lot of hassle—don’t wait until the warning light comes on to take action. Neglecting it not only affects performance and lifespan but also leads to higher repair costs. Overall, be flexible and consider your driving habits—balancing both factors is the safest approach.
