How many kilometers should a car be serviced generally?
2 Answers
Generally, a car should be serviced every 5,000 kilometers. Below are the specific details about car maintenance: Types of Maintenance: During a "minor service," the oil filter and engine oil are replaced. For a "major service," the "three filters" are replaced, which include the fuel filter, air filter, oil filter, and engine oil. Depending on the vehicle's condition, maintenance personnel may also replace the spark plugs (typically after driving over 30,000 kilometers) and brake fluid (typically after driving over 40,000 kilometers). Below are additional tips for daily maintenance: Check the tires and their pressure. When driving on highways, before entering toll stations or rest areas, there will be a series of speed bumps on the road. Slow down before reaching the speed bumps to reduce tire wear. While driving normally, avoid sudden braking when safe to do so, as this can extend the lifespan of the tires and brake lights. Additionally, pay attention to the tire pressure. Proper tire pressure can reduce road vibrations, enhance driving comfort, and improve fuel efficiency.
I often discuss maintenance intervals with my friends. When I first bought my car last year, the manual suggested checking the oil and filters every 5,000 to 7,500 kilometers. I opted for a middle ground of 6,000 kilometers because I live in a big city with heavy traffic during my daily commute, which puts a lot of strain on the engine. If maintenance is delayed for too long, sludge buildup can affect performance. Once, I pushed it to over 7,000 kilometers before servicing, and the car started to shudder slightly when accelerating. In reality, maintenance cycles depend on driving habits and oil quality. Conventional mineral oil is recommended for changes every 5,000 kilometers, while synthetic oil can last up to 10,000 kilometers. If you drive mostly on highways, you can extend the interval slightly. I’ve also noticed that maintenance should be more frequent in hot weather, as the air conditioning system is more prone to issues in summer. Ultimately, it’s best to stay flexible rather than rigidly sticking to fixed numbers.
