
It is best to perform the second maintenance on a car after it has been driven for 10,000 kilometers or about a year. Below is more information about the second maintenance for a new car: 1. The maintenance items involve inspections and maintenance of dozens of components across multiple systems, including the engine, transmission, air conditioning system, steering system, braking system, suspension, body, and tires. The key items remain replacing the engine oil and oil filter. 2. During the second maintenance, both the air filter and cabin air filter need to be replaced. 3. For the second maintenance of a car, no other replacements or cleaning are required. Other inspection items, such as checking the coolant, brake fluid, tire pressure, etc., are generally free of charge.

The mileage for the second maintenance really depends on your car's specific condition. I remember my car's second maintenance was done at around 16,000 kilometers. The manual generally recommends doing it between 10,000 to 20,000 kilometers, with variations among different brands. German cars might require it a bit earlier, while Japanese cars are more flexible. Don't delay it too long, as exceeding this range can accelerate engine wear and cause fluid degradation, affecting performance. Personally, I prefer doing it a bit earlier because city driving conditions are harsh, and the air filter tends to clog easily. I recommend regularly checking the dashboard warning lights or using an app to track mileage, so you don't miss critical maintenance milestones and can extend your car's lifespan.

The second maintenance for a car is usually done between 12,000 to 18,000 kilometers. My car manual states that the second maintenance must be performed after 15,000 kilometers, which involves changing the engine oil and oil filter. To save some money, you can look for promotions at the 4S shop, but don't delay just to save a few bucks. Delaying maintenance can easily lead to increased fuel consumption, noticeable sluggishness when starting the car, and even weak acceleration. I usually consider the six-month interval as well; going over by a thousand or two kilometers is fine, but it's important to check the tires and brake pads. Book the service in advance to get all items done in one go, so it doesn't affect daily travel safety.

The mileage for the second maintenance varies from person to person. It is generally performed about half a year after the first maintenance, with a mileage range mostly between 10,000 to 15,000 kilometers. My own car had its second maintenance at 12,500 kilometers, and it felt noticeably smoother. The key factors are the oil quality and driving habits. If you drive mostly in the city, you might need it earlier. Ignoring maintenance can trigger warning lights, and thin engine oil can damage the engine. Regular maintenance saves money and extends the vehicle's lifespan.


