How Many Kilometers Should You Service Your Car?

[LeSienna]

Generally, cars should be serviced every 5,000 kilometers. This primarily refers to the lubrication system, which includes changing the engine oil, oil filter, fuel filter, and air filter. Engine oil should be replaced every 5,000 kilometers because it is nearing its usage limit, with reduced lubrication and viscosity. Failing to replace it can impair engine lubrication and affect the engine's lifespan. When changing the oil, avoid adding unnecessary additives or wear-resistant agents. New cars must be serviced at 2,300 kilometers for their first free maintenance. This includes changing the engine oil, the three filters, and the gear oil, which is crucial. The initial oil and gear oil contain fine metal particles from the break-in period, and not replacing them can damage the engine.

[SanAlan]

As a car enthusiast with years of driving experience, I have some thoughts on maintenance intervals. Generally, new cars are recommended for maintenance every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers, but it depends on the specific model and usage conditions. The manual specifies it clearly—my compact car required its first oil and filter change at 5,000 kilometers. For city driving with frequent traffic jams and higher engine load, oil degrades faster, so maintenance should be shortened to around 6,000 kilometers. Conversely, for steady highway driving, intervals can be extended to 8,000–10,000 kilometers. Skipping maintenance leads to carbon buildup in the engine, increasing fuel consumption and potentially damaging parts, which can be costly to repair. My neighbor once delayed maintenance, resulting in engine overheating issues that cost over 4,000 yuan to fix. Safety-wise, checking brakes and tires during each service is essential to prevent accidents. For older cars exceeding 100,000 kilometers, more frequent maintenance—ideally within 5,000 kilometers—extends lifespan and saves money in the long run.

[Hallie]

I believe car maintenance intervals vary based on driving habits. After driving an economy car for three years, my experience suggests a standard oil and filter change every 5,000 kilometers. If frequently driving on dusty rural roads or short urban trips, increase maintenance frequency to every 4,000–5,000 kilometers to ensure engine cleanliness and efficiency. New cars using synthetic oil may extend intervals to 7,500 kilometers, but older vehicles require shorter cycles. Neglecting maintenance can lead to failures and costly repairs, far outweighing the few hundred yuan spent on minor services. For safety, always check the air conditioning and cooling systems, especially before long summer trips in high temperatures. The manual is a treasure—consult it for adjustments every time. I service my car every 5,500 kilometers, maintaining stable performance and low fuel consumption.

[Elaine]

Maintenance frequency should be every 5,000 to 8,000 kilometers. Refer to the vehicle's manual for specifics. The first maintenance is typically around 5,000 kilometers, followed by oil changes and part inspections every 5,000 kilometers thereafter. Conditions greatly influence this; for example, city congestion may shorten the interval. Failing to maintain on time accelerates part wear.

[StJake]

The recommended car maintenance interval typically starts at 5,000 kilometers. The manual usually specifies maintenance every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers. Driving conditions such as frequent short-distance city driving may require more frequent maintenance, with oil changes recommended at 4,500 kilometers. Regular maintenance helps avoid costly major repairs and ensures safety.