Should Car Maintenance Be Based on Mileage or Time?
2 Answers
Car maintenance is based on both mileage and time. Vehicle maintenance refers to the regular inspection, cleaning, replenishment, lubrication, adjustment, or replacement of parts related to the car. The scope of car maintenance includes: the engine system, transmission system, air conditioning system, cooling system, fuel system, and power steering system. The purpose of car maintenance is to eliminate potential hazards and extend the vehicle's service life. Minor maintenance is typically performed every 5,000 kilometers or every 6 months, while major maintenance is usually done every 20,000 to 30,000 kilometers or every 2 years. Routine maintenance items include the oil filter, air filter, and cabin air filter.
When I first bought my car, I was also torn between whether maintenance should be based on mileage or time. My situation is that I don’t drive much daily, just a few dozen kilometers per week for commuting. I asked the technicians at the 4S店, and they said it mainly depends on the recommendations in the maintenance manual—usually, whichever comes first should be followed. Mileage primarily affects parts like engine oil and filters that get dirty easily, while time is a factor because fluids can degrade and lose effectiveness over time. Now, I set a reminder to change the oil every six months or every 5,000 kilometers. For an old car that’s sitting idle, it’s important to check it if it’s been over six months, otherwise, the oil can dry up and cause parts to wear out, leading to costly major repairs later. From a cost-saving perspective, it’s best to replace things when needed to avoid small issues turning into big expenses.
