Does a car need maintenance after driving 5,000 kilometers?
3 Answers
Yes, a car requires maintenance after driving 5,000 kilometers. The maintenance items include: 1. Inspecting and tightening the connection between wheels and hub nuts; 2. Adjusting idle speed and idle mixture pedal clearance; 3. Checking the tightness of engine cylinder head screws; 4. Replacing engine oil, oil filter, air conditioning filter, and air filter; 5. Verifying whether all fluids meet standards; 6. Ensuring the proper functioning of lights, chassis, and braking systems. Maintenance refers to the preventive work of regularly inspecting, cleaning, supplying, lubricating, adjusting, or replacing certain parts of the car. Its purpose is to keep the car clean, maintain normal technical conditions, eliminate hidden dangers, prevent faults, slow down the deterioration process, and extend the service life.
My family car is mainly used for commuting, and the 5000-kilometer maintenance is quite particular. I remember the mechanic once told me that the first maintenance for a new car is usually recommended around 5000 kilometers, mainly involving an oil change and oil filter replacement, as the engine break-in period generates some metal debris. For example, most Japanese car maintenance manuals specify a mandatory 5000-kilometer service, while German cars can often last up to 10,000 kilometers. Last time, I waited until 5500 kilometers for maintenance, and when I picked up the car, I noticed the air filter was already black. I suggest not just focusing on the mileage—if you often drive on gravel roads or face heavy traffic, it’s better to check the brake pads and tires by 4000 kilometers.
It's indeed time to consider maintenance at 5,000 kilometers. As a seasoned driver who's owned three cars, I insist on changing the oil every 5,000 kilometers, especially for turbocharged models. The engine is like the human heart - prolonged oil neglect leads to sludge buildup, and repairs will cost far more than routine maintenance. Last week, when inspecting my friend's 5-year-old SUV that had delayed maintenance, the oil had nearly turned to sludge. I recommend simultaneously checking the coolant and brake fluid conditions, as summer heat can cause moisture evaporation. Remember, maintenance isn't just about oil changes; technicians will also use diagnostic scanners to check for trouble codes and identify potential issues in advance.
