How Often Should a 10-Year-Old Car Be Maintained?

[ORose]

For vehicles of this age, it's best to let them rest in the garage for recuperation. Below is relevant information about car maintenance: 1. First Maintenance: Some manufacturers determine the first maintenance based on time or mileage. The exact timing should be referred to the vehicle's user manual or warranty manual. The first maintenance is crucial and free, so be sure not to miss it to avoid affecting the car's three-guarantee issues. 2. Maintenance Items: The main maintenance items for a car include replacing engine oil, oil filters, transmission fluid, spark plugs, air conditioning filters, air filters, brake fluid, etc. However, not all items need replacement in every maintenance session; it depends on their service life. In addition, maintenance also involves inspection and upkeep of dozens of items across multiple systems such as the engine, transmission, air conditioning system, steering system, braking system, suspension, body, and tires.

[LaAngelo]

Having driven for nearly a decade, my experience tells me that cars of this age require more frequent maintenance to stay durable. Now, every 5,000 kilometers or every six months, I make it a routine to get a comprehensive check-up. Older cars aren't as easy to manage as new ones—engine oil degrades faster, and parts like belts and suspension wear out more quickly. I usually ask the mechanic to focus on the brake pads, coolant, and tire pressure to prevent sudden breakdowns. I remember last year when I delayed maintenance for three months, the fan belt snapped, leaving me stranded on the road and costing me a hefty repair bill. Since then, I've never dared to be careless again. If you don't drive much, at least an annual inspection is necessary, but if you frequently hit the highway or during colder months, a check every three months is advisable. In short, regular maintenance keeps your car running longer, saving you hassle and ensuring safety—don't lose big by skimping on small things.

[EmilyLee]

When driving a 10-year-old car, I always pay extra attention to safety, so maintenance cannot be neglected. It's generally recommended to have the car serviced every 6 months or every 5,000 kilometers. Key components of an older car, such as engine oil, the braking system, and the battery, may deteriorate. If not checked regularly, the risk on the road increases. I have a friend who drove for ten years and neglected maintenance, resulting in a minor accident due to brake failure. Later, he learned his lesson and now checks fluid levels and tire wear every quarter. Especially for brake pads, if the wear exceeds 50%, they should be replaced to avoid losing control at high speeds. The cooling system is also prone to overheating in summer, which can cause engine failure. Even if you don't drive much, it's essential to have a comprehensive inspection at least once a year. Spending a bit more on maintenance is always better than facing major repair costs—safety comes first.

[LaCooper]

My car is 10 years old, and I currently get it serviced every 5,000 kilometers for convenience and cost savings. If an older car isn't maintained regularly, it can develop more faults and expensive repairs. For example, not changing the engine oil can contaminate the engine, and repairs could easily cost over a thousand yuan. Each time, I choose a reliable shop to mainly replace the oil filter and inspect minor components. To save money, opt for maintenance during off-peak seasons when discounts are plentiful, or learn some simple checks like tire pressure inflation. If you drive less, stretching it to once a year is acceptable, but checking every six months is more reliable to prevent major issues.