How often should car maintenance be performed?
2 Answers
Car maintenance time depends on the specific situation: 1. Minor maintenance takes 30 to 40 minutes; 2. Major maintenance requires 2 to 3 hours. Car maintenance items include: 1. Checking and replenishing fuel and lubricants; 2. Cleaning the interior, exterior, engine, and chassis of the vehicle; 3. Checking the oil levels of the generator, transmission, rear axle, and steering gear; 4. Adding lubricating oil as required, ensuring all oil nozzles on various parts of the vehicle are fully equipped and effectively filled as specified; 5. Checking the connection and tightness of the steering gear, tie rods, drag links, and steering arms. The purposes of car maintenance are: 1. To keep the vehicle clean and in normal technical condition; 2. To eliminate potential hazards and slow down the deterioration process; 3. To extend the service life.
I've been driving for over a decade, and maintenance schedules mainly depend on mileage and vehicle condition. Most cars recommend maintenance every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers, or a comprehensive check-up at the repair shop every six months. But don't rigidly apply these numbers—check your car's user manual, as requirements vary by brand. I prefer changing the oil and checking brake pads and tires every 5,000 kilometers, especially when doing a lot of highway driving. If you drive frequently, the air filter and AC system also need regular cleaning to prevent dust buildup from affecting the engine. Don't skip maintenance just to save money—catching small issues early can avoid major repairs, making it a cost-effective safety measure. Remember to check antifreeze and wipers before rainy or cold weather. Keeping up with maintenance makes your car last longer—my experience is that being too lazy can lead to expensive repairs.
