
You should go for car maintenance when the time comes even if the mileage hasn't been reached. Below are some car maintenance precautions: 1. Car engine maintenance: The car engine should be cleaned at the appropriate time. Prolonged use can form a thick layer of carbon deposits on the engine's surface, which can significantly corrode the rubber components in the engine. 2. Prevent evaporation of gasoline and water: In summer, temperatures are generally high. Therefore, gasoline and water evaporate more easily than usual. It is necessary to frequently check the water tank and fuel tank and add them promptly when they are low. 3. Pay attention to interior hygiene: Summer is the season when bacteria multiply the fastest, so the car interior should be kept clean, especially car seat covers, steering wheel covers, and car mats, which are prone to getting dirty. 4. Replace the car wipers: When driving in the rain, make sure the wipers are in good condition. Over time, the rubber blades of the wipers will age. To ensure good driving visibility in the rain, it is best to replace the car wipers every one to two years. 5. Update car mats: Good car cooling mats are an important choice for car sun protection during the hot season. Choose mats that are cool and not too slippery to avoid traffic accidents caused by body sliding while driving.

As a veteran driver with over 20 years of experience, I know that even if the mileage hasn't been reached, maintenance is still required when the time comes! Why? Engine oil deteriorates and degrades, just like expired milk—its viscosity decreases over time, reducing lubrication effectiveness and making the engine prone to wear. The oil filter can also become clogged, affecting intake efficiency. Last time, I delayed maintenance by half a month, and my car made a rattling noise upon startup, leading to costly repairs later. The manual clearly states the time-first principle, as certain components like coolant and brake fluid also break down over time. I recommend not skimping on these small expenses—regular maintenance keeps your beloved car running longer and smoother while avoiding safety risks like roadside breakdowns. Especially for cars parked unused in cities, aging issues worsen, making periodic checks on tires and batteries essential. In short, develop good habits—your car is like an old companion to us.

Car maintenance shouldn't solely focus on mileage; timely servicing is crucial. Fluids have expiration dates—engine oil absorbs moisture and oxidizes when exposed to air, losing effectiveness over time and causing insufficient lubrication that worsens metal friction inside the engine. Seals and rubber hoses may also harden and leak, regardless of mileage. The manual's rule of "whichever comes first: time or distance" is well-founded. I recommend adhering to the manufacturer's maintenance schedule. In daily driving, prolonged idling accelerates component degradation—for example, degraded transmission fluid hampers smooth gear shifts. Scheduling a maintenance check is hassle-free and prevents major repair costs. Ignoring time factors may save money short-term but accumulates risks like potential safety failures, impacting overall lifespan and resale value. Weighing pros and cons, early action is wiser.

As a commuter who drives infrequently, my car's mileage is often low. But I stick to scheduled maintenance. It's simple – engine oil degrades over time, losing its protective properties and potentially increasing engine wear. Filters also get clogged, affecting performance. Last time I delayed by two weeks, and the startup became noticeably rough. Regular maintenance prevents minor issues from escalating, saving future repair costs and tow truck hassles. Check your manual's recommendations and prioritize time-based maintenance – this habit is crucial.


