Is Car Maintenance Better Based on Time or Mileage?
4 Answers
Whether car maintenance should be based on mileage or time depends on different situations: 1. For frequent drivers, focus on mileage: Some car owners drive frequently, using their cars for daily commutes and weekend trips, accumulating high mileage. In such cases, maintenance should be scheduled based on mileage. 2. For infrequent drivers, focus on time: Some car owners drive very little, perhaps only a few times a month, covering just a few thousand kilometers a year. In these situations, maintenance can be scheduled based on time. If driving is minimal, maintenance can even be slightly delayed beyond the recommended time.
I've been driving for over a decade, and now mainly use my car for urban commuting, not driving very much. Time-based maintenance is a more reliable option for me because even if the car sits idle, oils and fluids will naturally age and deteriorate. For example, engine oil can oxidize into a sticky consistency after six months, affecting lubrication; brake fluid absorbs moisture, and over time, the brakes become less responsive. Even if tires show no wear, prolonged parking can cause cracking and deformation. I once experienced a situation where, after not driving for three months on a business trip, the battery was completely dead, making it difficult to start. I recommend a minor check every six months and a major inspection annually to avoid big problems. Friends who drive less should especially follow this advice—safety comes first, don't wait until a breakdown costs more to repair.
From a technical perspective, I understand that car maintenance should consider both time and mileage. Components not only wear out from extensive driving but also undergo chemical degradation over time. For instance, transmission fluid should be changed every 20,000 kilometers, but if the car remains unused for two years, the fluid can break down and damage components. Similarly, coolant may not leak but can corrode internal pipes. After consulting the manual, manufacturers typically recommend maintenance based on whichever comes first—time or mileage—for more comprehensive care. During an oil and filter change, I noticed the old oil had thickened, proving that time effects cannot be ignored. Therefore, it's advisable to tailor maintenance to driving habits: prioritize mileage for frequent long-distance driving and time for urban short trips, thereby extending the vehicle's lifespan.
In terms of safety, I feel more assured with regular time-based maintenance. Deteriorated oil may cause engine seizure, and aged brake fluid can lead to failure – I've heard reports of such accidents. As a car owner, protecting my family's safety is a responsibility. Even if the car is driven infrequently, checking oil levels, tire pressure, and cleaning dust every six months is worthwhile – spending a little to prevent major disasters. Example: My neighbor's car sat unused for a year, and the engine seized when he tried to drive it, costing thousands in repairs. My advice: Don't just go by mileage, time is a silent killer. During maintenance, also check wipers, headlights, etc., to ensure all functions are normal for worry-free driving.
