How many kilometers can a car drive after a normal maintenance?
3 Answers
Major maintenance is usually performed every 50,000 to 60,000 kilometers, while the air filter is replaced every 10,000 to 20,000 kilometers. Minor maintenance at 5,000 kilometers mainly involves changing the engine oil and oil filter. Below is an introduction to routine car inspections: Air Filter: Proper installation of the air filter can reduce wear on components such as cylinders, pistons, and piston rings. Generally, it should be cleaned every 5,000 kilometers and replaced every 10,000 kilometers. Oil Filter: Correct installation of the oil filter prevents impurities from mixing into the engine oil during operation, avoiding wear on moving parts and clogging of oil passages. The oil filter must be replaced whenever the engine oil is changed; otherwise, it may affect the quality of the lubricant. The replacement cycle for both engine oil and the oil filter is typically 5,000 kilometers. Fuel Filter: Proper installation of the fuel filter prevents impurities and moisture mixed into the gasoline during storage, transportation, and refueling from causing cylinder wear. To ensure optimal engine performance, the fuel filter should generally be replaced every 20,000 kilometers or once a year.
Having driven for over 20 years, maintenance intervals really depend on the situation. When using mineral oil, I stick to changing it every 5,000 kilometers because the oil degrades quickly, leading to carbon buildup in the engine—especially with frequent stop-and-go city driving, which demands more frequent maintenance. Switching to full synthetic oil makes things much easier, allowing you to comfortably go 10,000 to 15,000 kilometers, but only if your driving is smooth and you do a lot of highway driving. Time is also a factor—oil deteriorates after about six months, so maintenance is necessary even if mileage hasn’t been reached. Don’t underestimate oil quality—high-grade synthetic oil not only extends intervals but also improves fuel efficiency and reduces engine wear. I make it a habit to regularly check tires and brakes to prevent potential issues. After maintenance, the car runs smoother, has fewer problems, and stays safer.
As the primary family car user, I take maintenance very seriously. New car manuals generally recommend maintenance every 10,000 kilometers using full synthetic oil. Since we mostly drive in congested urban areas for daily school runs, putting high load on the engine, I typically change the oil every 8,000 kilometers. For older cars using mineral oil, I follow the manual's recommendation of maintenance every 5,000 kilometers. Maintenance isn't just about oil changes; technicians also inspect critical components like filters and brake fluid to ensure safe family trips. Don't delay maintenance to save money, as engine repairs cost much more. With today's advanced oil technology, high-quality synthetic oils can maintain stability over longer distances, but adjustments should be made based on road conditions.
