Is Maintenance Required When the Time Comes Even If the Mileage Hasn't Been Reached?

[LaMelanie]

Maintenance is required when the time comes even if the mileage hasn't been reached, because many components have a shelf life. Taking engine oil as an example, it circulates through the entire automotive system and comes into contact with air. Once poured out of the oil bottle, it will oxidize and deteriorate, even if the car isn't driven. For those who drive frequently, maintenance can be based on mileage. Some owners use their cars daily for commuting and weekend trips, accumulating high mileage, so they can follow the mileage-based maintenance schedule. For those who drive less, maintenance should be based on time. Some owners only drive on weekends or even a few times a month, covering just a few thousand kilometers a year. In such cases, maintenance should follow the time-based schedule. The standard maintenance interval is three months, but if the mileage is extremely low, maintenance can be done every six months.

[HaileyRose]

I think this issue is very practical, especially for commuters like me who drive to work frequently. Even if the mileage hasn't been reached when the time comes, it's essential to get the car serviced promptly. The reason is simple: the engine oil in the car gradually degrades and deteriorates over time. Even if you haven't driven much, the oil can absorb moisture and oxidize, significantly reducing its lubrication effectiveness and increasing the risk of engine wear. I once delayed maintenance by over three months and ended up with strange noises during startup. Later, I discovered excessive impurities in the oil, which nearly caused piston ring damage. Additionally, rubber seals and wire connectors can also age and corrode, especially when parked in damp environments like underground garages, making issues more likely to arise. The maintenance manual emphasizes following whichever comes first—time or mileage—as the benchmark. Don't try to save a little money now, or you'll end up paying much more for repairs later. Personally, I've developed a habit of checking my car's condition every six months, which gives me peace of mind while driving and helps detect minor issues early. In short, timely maintenance not only protects your car's lifespan but also saves you from unnecessary worries on the road.

[SadieMarie]

As someone with some mechanical knowledge, I must say both time and mileage are crucial indicators for maintenance. Even if the car is driven less, the engine oil exposed to air will oxidize and turn acidic, reducing its lubricating properties. Over time, sludge can deposit and clog oil passages, causing the engine to run roughly. Especially in areas with significant seasonal changes, winter increases oil viscosity while summer decreases it, leading to accelerated wear over time. Additionally, coolant and brake fluid lose effectiveness with time, affecting cooling and braking performance. My advice is to stick to scheduled maintenance regardless of mileage, such as a vehicle inspection every six months. This extends component lifespan and prevents costly sudden breakdowns. Regular maintenance is essentially giving your car periodic check-ups – prevention is always the most cost-effective approach.

[Amber]

I believe this issue is about safety first. The car must be serviced when the time comes, even if the mileage hasn't been reached. Think about it: when engine oil deteriorates and loses its lubricating properties, the engine may overheat or suddenly stall during high-speed driving, which is very dangerous. I've personally seen a friend's car nearly cause an accident due to neglected time-based maintenance, where aged brake fluid led to brake failure. The air filter can also accumulate dust and become clogged, affecting the engine's air intake efficiency. Sticking to regular maintenance can prevent these potential hazards and ensure smooth driving. It's recommended to have the car checked according to the manual standards every six to twelve months without hesitation. Safety is always more important than saving money.