What are the general items included in car maintenance?
4 Answers
Car maintenance items include: 1. Changing the engine oil and oil filter; 2. Air filter; 3. Fuel filter; 4. Transmission fluid; 5. Tire maintenance. Below is additional information on car maintenance: 1. Major maintenance builds upon regular maintenance, requiring the replacement of the air filter and fuel filter in addition to the engine oil and oil filter. 2. Major maintenance and regular maintenance can be alternated, with intervals varying by car brand, and should follow the manufacturer's recommendations. Engine oil is the lubricant for the engine, and to ensure optimal performance, it should be replaced periodically. The replacement cycle depends on the oil's effective lifespan. During operation, the engine draws in a large amount of air, and the dust in the air can accelerate wear on the piston group and cylinder. The air filter's role is to remove dust and particles from the air, ensuring that sufficient and clean air enters the cylinder.
I've been driving for ten years and always keep an eye on every maintenance session. Changing the engine oil and filter is the most basic task—otherwise, the engine would be like drinking dirty water. Tires need to be checked for wear and pressure, and don’t forget to inspect the spare tire as well. Brake pad thickness is crucial; if they’re too thin and start squeaking, it’s dangerous. The cabin air filter is especially easy to overlook, but replacing it in spring instantly freshens up the air inside the car. Checking the lights is essential for nighttime driving safety—I once saw a loose bulb nearly cause an accident. The mechanic also tests the battery life; catching a failing battery early once saved me from major trouble. Getting all these items done ensures a worry-free and confident drive.
Having worked in an auto repair shop for eight years, I can say that routine maintenance essentially boils down to three major areas. For the mechanical section, it's mandatory to check the engine oil condition and replace the three filters (air, oil, and fuel), while the engine compartment requires carbon deposit cleaning. The chassis system focuses on inspecting brake fluid lines for leaks, checking the steering gear for abnormal noises, and assessing ball joint wear. Electrical equipment demands testing the battery voltage and examining all vehicle lighting circuits, especially the fog light connectors which are prone to oxidation. Many consider tire rotation and four-wheel alignment optional, but uneven tire wear and alignment issues are direct consequences of neglecting these services. It's advisable to check coolant levels quarterly, with special attention to antifreeze concentration in southern regions.
When I first bought the car, I was clueless too, but now I've got the hang of it. A minor service is just changing the engine oil and oil filter, like giving the car fresh milk. A major service involves replacing spark plugs, transmission fluid, and the like. Checking the brake pad thickness is a must every time—the way the mechanic measures it with calipers looks super professional. Tires must be replaced when the tread depth goes below 2mm; a mechanic taught me this once while fixing a punctured tire. Replacing the air filter is simple but crucial, especially in dusty places like Beijing. Many people wait until their wipers can't clean properly before replacing them, but checking the rubber strips for cracks during maintenance can actually prevent sudden failures.
