Should Car Maintenance Be Based on Mileage or Time?
2 Answers
Car maintenance can be based on either mileage or time, whichever comes first. Car maintenance, also known as vehicle servicing, refers to the preventive work of regularly inspecting, cleaning, replenishing, lubricating, adjusting, or replacing certain parts of the car. It mainly includes the maintenance of the engine system, transmission system, air conditioning system, etc., aiming to keep the vehicle clean, maintain normal technical conditions, eliminate potential hazards, prevent failures, and extend the service life. Depending on the characteristics of the tasks and the execution conditions, car maintenance involves different methods: cleaning, inspection, replenishment, lubrication, tightening, adjustment, replacement, etc.
I've been driving for several years and realized that maintenance shouldn't just depend on mileage or time alone, but rather a combination of both. For example, my family car's manual recommends changing the oil every 5,000 kilometers or every six months, whichever comes first. Once when I was traveling frequently for work, I only drove 3,000 kilometers in six months, but I still changed the oil because oil deteriorates and absorbs moisture even when not in use. If I had waited until reaching 5,000 kilometers, the oil might have already degraded, potentially damaging the engine. Brake pads and tires mainly depend on wear and tear, which is more related to mileage; but coolant and brake fluid are more time-dependent and should be replaced every two years to prevent oxidation and corrosion. Personally, I make it a habit to get a quick check-up at the shop every six months—spending a little money now is better than paying for major repairs later, and safety always comes first.
