Does a car that is rarely driven still need maintenance every six months?
4 Answers
Even if a car is rarely driven, it still requires maintenance every six months. Below is a detailed introduction to car maintenance items: 1. Engine oil and oil filter replacement: This primarily involves the maintenance of the lubrication system, whose main function is to effectively lubricate various components of the car engine to prevent excessive wear. The oil filter's role is to remove various impurities from the engine oil, ensuring the normal operation of the lubrication system. The oil filter should be replaced along with the engine oil during an oil change. Under normal circumstances, a car should undergo maintenance every 5,000 kilometers. 2. Air filter replacement: The air filter's function is to filter the air before it enters the cylinders, removing impurities, dust, sand, and other foreign particles. The cleaning and maintenance of the air filter depend on the usage environment. The gasoline filter is typically replaced every 20,000 kilometers. 3. Spark plug replacement: Spark plugs are consumable parts and should be replaced every 20,000 kilometers. Additionally, components such as brake fluid, transmission oil, battery, throttle body, fuel injectors, and brake pads are all part of the inspection items during routine maintenance, and their maintenance depends on usage conditions.
I used to have a car that sat unused for several months. At the time, I thought I could save money by not maintaining it so frequently. But when I tried to start it one day, the engine wouldn't turn over. After towing it to the repair shop, the mechanic found the engine oil had degraded into a butter-like consistency that couldn't properly lubricate the engine, and the battery was completely dead. They explained that fluids like engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant begin oxidizing and breaking down after about six months, regardless of whether the car is driven or not. Tires can also develop flat spots from prolonged parking, potentially causing uneven wear. Since then, I've made it a habit to get basic maintenance every six months - even if it's just an oil filter change and battery voltage check - to avoid such unpleasant surprises. It's like giving your car regular check-ups; it doesn't cost much but provides great peace of mind.
Vehicle maintenance shouldn't solely rely on mileage. I've seen numerous cases where time factors prove more critical. Engine oil deteriorates by absorbing moisture over time, reducing lubrication efficiency; brake fluid with absorbed moisture lowers its boiling point, increasing brake failure risks; batteries self-discharge rapidly, facing high depletion risks after just six months of inactivity. Underinflated tires deform and wear out – these issues occur even without driving. Biannual standard maintenance can promptly identify such problems, including fluid condition checks and basic carbon deposit cleaning. Prevention is always better than regret – don't gamble with safety risks.
Even if you drive your car less, regular maintenance is still necessary. Common issues like oil degradation, fluid aging, and battery discharge can occur. Checking these every six months can prevent faults and save you money. Don't be lazy.
