What are some tips for car maintenance and care?
2 Answers
Specific tips are as follows: 1. Do not wash the car immediately after exposure to the sun: The principle of thermal expansion and contraction means that after the car has been exposed to the sun, the sudden temperature change from hot to cold during washing can easily damage the paint. Frequent exposure to this can cause the paint to crack or peel. 2. Do not always wait until the fuel gauge light comes on to refuel: This may burn out the fuel pump, and when gasoline is insufficient, the fuel pump overheats, which can also affect its lifespan. 3. Turning the steering wheel to the limit: Many people don't realize that doing this frequently can damage the power steering mechanism. 4. Not straightening the wheels after parking: The steering linkage and suspension remain in a stretched state for a long time, which can lead to deformation and affect the normal performance of the steering system. In severe cases, the vehicle may pull to one side. 5. Frequently driving your car onto curbs: Doing this often can cause significant damage to the tires, especially the internal tire cords, as this is internal damage that is difficult to detect from the outside.
I just bought my car last year and have been particularly diligent about maintenance. I found that regularly changing the engine oil and oil filter is really super important—it needs to be done roughly every 5,000 kilometers. During the last service, the mechanic told me my cabin air filter had even started to mold, so now I take it out and clean it myself every six months. Then there’s tire pressure—I make it a habit to check it monthly with my own pressure gauge, especially before long highway drives, which helps save fuel and ensures safety. Washing the car also has its tricks; I never use laundry detergent and instead bought pH-neutral car wash soap to avoid damaging the paint. When driving, I also pay attention to gentle acceleration and avoid hard braking. Friends all say my car still looks brand new after three years. These small habits add up and can save a lot on repair costs.
