How often should the four wheels of a sedan be maintained?
2 Answers
For a new sedan, the four wheels should be maintained three months after driving, and then every six months or 10,000 kilometers. The maintenance of the four wheels includes not only wheel alignment but also checking the braking system and the chassis of the car. Chassis issues generally fall into three categories: the braking system, wheel alignment, and abnormal noises. The braking system is a crucial part of the chassis, while issues such as pulling to one side, tire wear, or steering wheel shaking are related to wheel alignment. The following situations require wheel alignment: 1. After replacing new tires or repairing after a collision accident; 2. Unilateral wear on the front or rear tires; 3. The steering wheel feels too heavy or floats and shakes while driving; 4. The car pulls to the left or right when driving straight.
Having driven for over a decade, I've found that the key to four-wheel maintenance lies in tire rotation and alignment. Rotating tires every 10,000 kilometers is the safest practice to evenly distribute wear and prevent premature front tire failure or driving imbalance. If frequently driving on rough roads or highways where wear accelerates, inspections should be advanced to every 8,000 kilometers. Wheel alignment is typically checked every 20,000-30,000 kilometers or when steering wheel misalignment occurs—misalignment can increase fuel consumption and compromise handling stability. New car manuals provide recommended intervals; mine specifies tire rotation at 12,000 kilometers. Never overlook details like proper tire pressure, as these significantly impact overall maintenance outcomes. Regular care can extend tire lifespan by 2-3 years, avoiding extra repair costs. In summary, adhering to specifications ensures both safety and efficiency.
