Does exceeding the maintenance mileage by 500 kilometers have any impact?
2 Answers
Generally, exceeding the maintenance mileage by 500 kilometers is not a big issue. However, if the car is still under warranty, it's important to adhere to the maintenance schedule outlined in the manual. If maintenance is overdue, the dealership has the right to refuse free warranty repairs and claims. Here is some additional information: 1. Car maintenance: Also known as vehicle upkeep, it refers to the regular inspection, cleaning, replenishment, lubrication, adjustment, or replacement of certain parts as a preventive measure. Car maintenance primarily involves the engine system, transmission system, air conditioning system, etc., aiming to keep the vehicle clean, ensure normal technical conditions, eliminate potential hazards, prevent malfunctions, and extend the vehicle's lifespan. 2. Engine oil: Engine oil is generally categorized into mineral oil, semi-synthetic oil, and fully synthetic oil. Mineral oil typically needs to be changed every 5,000 kilometers or 6 months; semi-synthetic oil every 7-8 months or 7,500 kilometers; and fully synthetic oil every 10,000 kilometers or 1 year. If the oil is not changed for a long time, it can deteriorate, reducing its lubricating properties. This prevents the oil from forming a protective film on engine components, thereby increasing engine wear.
I've been driving my own car for fifteen years, and occasionally exceeding the maintenance interval by 500 kilometers really isn't a big deal. I remember once I forgot about the schedule during a business trip and drove 600 kilometers before changing the oil—the engine still ran smoothly without any noise. Delaying maintenance by a few hundred kilometers for a short period won't immediately break the car; the main issue is that the oil may thicken, affecting lubrication, and aging may slightly increase engine friction. But don't make it a habit—if you consistently exceed the limit, carbon buildup or accelerated wear can shorten the vehicle's lifespan. I recommend checking the dipstick color regularly; if it turns black, get maintenance done soon. Setting a reminder on your phone calendar is a good idea—don’t neglect it just because work gets busy. Overall, just like people, cars need proper care when it's due. A small occasional delay can be overlooked, as long as you make up for it afterward.
