How to Maintain a Car?
4 Answers
The maintenance methods for a car are divided into regular maintenance, periodic maintenance, and major maintenance. Regular maintenance refers to the routine maintenance performed every 5,000 kilometers, which includes changing the engine oil and oil filter, checking the fuel filter, air filter, etc. Each time, it is essential to inspect whether the brake discs and pads need replacement, whether the brake fluid needs replenishment, and the condition of the tires. Periodic maintenance is performed every 3 years or every 40,000 kilometers. In addition to regular maintenance, it also involves cleaning the fuel injectors, throttle body, and the vehicle's intake system, as well as replacing the transmission oil, front and rear axle oil, coolant, brake fluid, etc. The tire wear should also be checked, and tires should be replaced if necessary. Major maintenance is conducted after the vehicle has traveled 100,000 kilometers, involving a comprehensive inspection of the vehicle and replacement of parts as needed. This includes checking the wiring, transmission mechanism, etc.
I have over a decade of experience in car maintenance. The core principles boil down to three points: regularly change the engine oil and oil filter, especially after driving 5,000-8,000 kilometers; frequently check tire pressure and wear, particularly before highway driving—always measure the tire pressure; never neglect the brake system—if you hear any unusual noises, head to the repair shop immediately. Also, pay attention to topping up coolant and windshield washer fluid, which is especially critical during hot summers. I personally open the engine hood every week to check for leaks and wipe dust off the headlight covers, helping to spot minor issues early and avoid costly repairs. Remember to get a comprehensive inspection at a professional shop every six months—just like a health checkup for your car.
I find that young people tend to overlook basic maintenance the most. Many cars nowadays come with automatic maintenance reminders, but the oil life monitor should only be used as a reference—it's best to change the oil according to the manual's recommended intervals. The air filter is especially important; if your AC emits a strange odor, chances are the air filter is dirty. In smog-heavy cities like Beijing, it's advisable to replace it every six months. Check tire pressure frequently—underinflated tires not only waste fuel but also damage the suspension. Simple maintenance tasks can be done yourself, like changing wiper blades, which takes just five minutes. Maintenance isn't about serving the manufacturer; it's about driving safer and more comfortably.
Key components to focus on for driving safety maintenance. Brake pads must be replaced if thickness falls below 3mm, otherwise emergency braking becomes unreliable; tires require replacement when tread depth is less than 1.6mm; headlight bulbs should be changed if brightness decreases by over 20% - driving at night becomes too hazardous. I make it a habit to check brake fluid moisture content monthly, replacing immediately if exceeding 3%. Chassis rust is particularly common in southern coastal regions, making post-wash undercarriage rinsing crucial. These inspections can all be done independently, saving money while ensuring peace of mind.
