What are the basic car maintenance items?

[Ezekiel]

The regular maintenance items for cars mainly include the replacement of engine oil and oil filter, air filter, fuel filter and pollen filter, the maintenance/replacement of spark plugs, transmission oil and other related system inspection items and maintenance. 1. Engine oil and oil filter are mainly for the maintenance of the lubrication system. The main function of the lubrication system is to effectively lubricate various components of the car engine to prevent excessive wear. The function of the oil filter is to remove various impurities from the oil to ensure the normal operation of the lubrication system. The oil filter should be replaced together with the oil during an oil change. Under normal circumstances, the car needs to be serviced every 5000km. 2. The function of the air filter is to filter the air before it enters the cylinder, removing impurities, dust, sand and other foreign objects. The cleaning and maintenance of the air filter depend on the usage environment. The fuel filter is generally replaced after driving 20,000-25,000km. 3. Spark plugs are consumable parts and should be replaced every 20,000km. In addition, components such as brake fluid, transmission oil, battery, throttle, fuel injector, and brake pads are all inspection items during regular maintenance, and maintenance is carried out according to the usage conditions.

[MacWalter]

When I first bought my car, I knew nothing about it. Later, I learned some basics from my mentor. The most fundamental task is changing the engine oil and oil filter, which must be done regularly; otherwise, the engine is prone to carbon buildup. Tire inspection is especially important—check the tread depth and air pressure. I've seen tire blowouts, and they're extremely dangerous. The braking system also needs attention; replace the brake pads when they're worn thin, and changing the brake fluid every two years is the safest bet. Small items like the air filter and cabin air filter can be replaced by yourself, and they're cheap to buy online. Also, don't forget to check various fluids, such as coolant and power steering fluid, and remember to clean the battery terminals. Topping up the windshield washer fluid goes without saying, right? Anyway, don't skimp on maintenance—it can save your life in critical moments.

[DiFaith]

In my opinion, car maintenance can be divided into three main parts. The first part is the engine system, such as changing the engine oil and oil filter every 5,000 kilometers or so. For older cars, it's also important to clean the throttle body. The second part is the chassis and running gear, where tire rotation and wheel alignment are essential, and the suspension system should be checked by a mechanic for any unusual noises. The third part is the safety components, especially checking the thickness of brake pads and discs, and adjusting the handbrake travel. The air conditioning system should not be neglected, particularly replacing the cabin air filter before summer. Regularly check the headlight bulbs, and replace the battery every three years as its lifespan expires. Also, remember to replace the window seals if they show signs of aging to prevent water leakage during rainy days.

[VanEvan]

For daily maintenance, just remember a few key points: oil, water, electricity, tires, and brakes. 'Oil and water' refer to engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and coolant—check their levels and color regularly. Keep battery terminals clean, check tire pressure monthly, and rotate tires to extend their lifespan. Brake pads wear thin around 30,000 km; inspect the brake discs when replacing them. Replace the air filter every other maintenance session and the cabin air filter before each season change. Replace wiper blades immediately if they streak—they only cost a few dollars. When washing the car, rinse the undercarriage, especially in southern regions to prevent rust. Taking care of these small items can save you from major repairs.

[TravisLynn]

Last year, I finally got it figured out by going through the maintenance manual. The basics are getting a minor service every 5,000-10,000 kilometers, which includes an oil and filter change. At 20,000 kilometers, a major service is needed, covering things like transmission fluid and spark plugs. For daily checks: listen to the engine sound during cold starts, turn the steering wheel while stationary to check power steering fluid, and turn on the AC to sniff for any odd smells. Check tire pressure every three months—it only takes two minutes with a tire pressure gauge. Brake pads must be replaced when worn down to 0.5cm, and never ignore a brake warning light on the dashboard. After rain, remember to air out the car to prevent door hinges from rusting. Maintenance tasks follow a pattern—just stick to the manual and you'll be fine.

[OMarley]

I learned the hard way about car maintenance. The three filters must be replaced regularly: the oil filter goes with the oil change, a clogged air filter wastes fuel, and the cabin air filter affects respiratory health. Tire maintenance is the most overlooked—remove stones stuck in the tread promptly, and replace tires immediately if sidewall bulges appear. Brake system care focuses on rust prevention, as surface rust on rotors impacts braking. Apply Vaseline to battery terminals to prevent oxidation, especially during extreme temperature shifts. I spray lubricant on window tracks monthly for smooth operation. Don’t just wash the exterior—clean the engine bay too, as built-up grime raises fire risks. Stay disciplined with these small maintenance tasks, and repair shops won’t see much of your money.