
Basic knowledge about cars mainly includes avoiding slamming the accelerator, gear shifting techniques, warming up before accelerating, speed control, and rational use of air conditioning. Sudden starts, sudden braking, and slamming the accelerator are major taboos for saving fuel. Pressing the accelerator to the floor consumes more fuel than driving at moderate speeds, so it's important to control the accelerator's range to ensure smooth driving. Especially at traffic lights or when entering or exiting highways, you should gently press the brake in advance to slow down, allowing the engine's remaining power to push the car forward slowly. When driving, gear selection should be based on actual conditions. Ensure sufficient power supply for better fuel efficiency. Avoid driving at high speeds in low gears. When driving a manual transmission car, shift to a higher gear when the car comes to a stop. Manual transmissions should not start in high gear. For automatic transmission cars, try to avoid using sport mode. Warming up before accelerating means not accelerating immediately after starting the car. Let the engine warm up slowly before accelerating, as the engine consumes more fuel when cold than when at operating temperature. Speed control, also known as the economic speed, refers to the most fuel-efficient driving speed. This value varies for each car and is usually mentioned in the owner's manual. Rational use of air conditioning means that when the temperature is comfortable and the speed is below 60 km/h, you can open the windows for ventilation instead of using the air conditioning. When using the air conditioning, cooling is not always necessary; the ventilation function can be used instead.

Basic knowledge of cars includes regular maintenance and daily checks. For example, I often remind friends to check tire pressure monthly because too low pressure wastes fuel and increases the risk of a blowout; engine oil and coolant should also be replaced on time, generally every 5,000 kilometers or every six months, to ensure smooth engine operation; the lighting system, such as headlights and brake lights, should be tested regularly to avoid nighttime driving hazards; replacing the air conditioning filter annually keeps the air inside the car fresh; don’t overlook cleaning the chassis when washing the car to prevent rust. These small habits can extend the car's lifespan, saving money and ensuring safety.

Basic safety knowledge while driving is crucial. I always make sure to fasten my seatbelt, as it's a lifesaver; maintaining a safe following distance of at least two seconds is essential, especially on rainy days when roads are slippery and prone to skidding; adhering to speed limits is important, as speeding not only results in fines but also increases the likelihood of accidents; when driving at night, turn on your headlights but avoid using high beams to avoid blinding others; regularly check your braking system, and if the brakes feel soft, get them repaired immediately. These practices make driving safer and help avoid unnecessary trouble.

Understanding the basics of car mechanics can help you avoid major repairs. For someone like me who enjoys tinkering with cars, knowing that the engine is the heart, powered by burning gasoline; the braking system operates through hydraulic pressure, and if the pedal feels heavy, it might be low on brake fluid; the battery is responsible for starting, with a lifespan of about 3-5 years—if it's dead, you'll need a jump start or a replacement; tire tread depth should be replaced if it's below 1.6mm, otherwise, you risk losing control in the rain. Simple maintenance can save you a lot on repair costs.


