What are the basic contents of car maintenance?
3 Answers
Car maintenance includes the following basic contents: 1. Regular oil change: Engine oil is the lubricant of the engine, which can lubricate, clean, cool, seal, and reduce friction for the engine. It is also the "blood" of the engine. 2. Regular replacement of the three filters: The three filters refer to the air filter, oil filter, and fuel filter. The three filters can filter impurities for the engine, protect the engine, and improve its working efficiency. 3. Power steering fluid: Power steering fluid, commonly known as steering oil, should be checked regularly for leaks or obvious abnormal noises. Models with electronic power steering are maintenance-free, so there is no need to replace the steering oil. The maintenance cycle for steering oil is about 60,000 kilometers. 4. Brake fluid: Braking is very important for driving safety. Brake fluid has strong water absorption and can automatically absorb moisture from the air. 5. Coolant: Coolant ensures the normal operation of the engine. Regularly check whether the coolant level is within the standard value and whether the coolant reservoir has leaks. On average, the coolant needs to be replaced once a year. 6. Battery: The battery ensures that the engine can start normally. Check the color of the "eye" in the observation window on the upper part of the battery to see if it is green. The battery life is generally about two years, and it may be shorter in cold weather.
Well, I think car maintenance is quite important, especially after driving my kids to school every day, I've noticed some basics. Oil changes are crucial—every six months or 5,000 kilometers—to keep the engine running smoothly and avoid wear and tear. Tire checks can't be overlooked; I check the tire pressure weekly, keeping it around 2.2-2.5 bar, and replace them promptly if they're badly worn to prevent high-speed blowout risks. The braking system needs regular inspection of brake pad thickness and fluid levels, with brake fluid replaced every two years to ensure reliable emergency stops. I clean or replace the cabin air filter frequently since running the car on outside air circulation tends to accumulate dust—replacing it yearly improves air quality, which is good for my family's health. I test the headlights and turn signals before every drive. Plus, cleaning battery terminals prevents corrosion, and adding antifreeze coolant before winter is a must. These small habits keep the car running smoothly and save a lot on repair costs.
Having driven for decades, I've found that the core of maintenance lies in preventive care. Regularly change the engine oil and oil filter every 5,000 kilometers—don't wait until the engine starts making loud noises. For tires, I make it a habit to check wear and pressure monthly; rotate them if unbalanced to extend their lifespan. The braking system demands serious attention—top up the fluid if low, and replace worn brake pads promptly, as driving safety depends on it. Test voltage and clean terminals on aging batteries to prevent starting issues. The cabin air filter gets dirty easily, so replace it annually to ensure smooth airflow. Also, monitor the coolant level and condition in the cooling system to avoid overheating in summer. Don’t forget quick checks on lights and wipers. Addressing these routine points reduces breakdowns, making the car durable and cost-effective.
