
Regular car maintenance items include: replacement of engine oil and oil filter, air filter, gasoline filter, and pollen filter, maintenance and replacement of spark plugs, transmission oil, and other related system inspection and maintenance items. Car maintenance refers to the preventive work of regularly inspecting, cleaning, supplying, lubricating, adjusting, or replacing certain parts of the car, also known as car servicing. The main purpose of car maintenance is to keep the car clean, eliminate potential hazards under normal technical conditions, prevent accidents, slow down the aging process of car parts, extend their service life, and ensure the car works properly.

When it comes to routine maintenance items, I basically follow a fixed procedure every time I visit the 4S dealership. The most important tasks are changing the engine oil and oil filter, which need to be replaced every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers—it's like giving the engine a bath. Then, the technician will inspect the air filter, cleaning it or replacing it if it's too dirty. Rotating the tires is crucial to ensure even wear. The brake pads' thickness must also be measured—last time, I discovered mine were nearly worn out and replaced them in time. Various fluids like coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid are checked to ensure they're at the proper levels. The battery's lifespan is tested too—once, my battery suddenly died in winter because it wasn’t properly checked during maintenance. Small components like lights and wipers are inspected as well. Overall, basic maintenance is the key line of defense for safe driving.

As an experienced driver, I prioritize three key aspects during maintenance: Engine oil and oil filter must be replaced—they're the lifeblood of the engine; tires and braking system must be inspected as they relate to driving safety; and all filters must be checked to ensure cabin air quality. Routine maintenance is like a health check-up—the dealership follows the manual's standard procedures. When changing the oil, the mechanic also checks the undercarriage for leaks, tests the brake fluid's water content, and adjusts tire pressure to the recommended level. I replace the cabin air filter almost every time, especially before using the AC in summer. Wiper blades wear out quickly, so I replace them during inspections. I recommend observing the mechanic during maintenance—you can pick up a lot of practical knowledge.

Car maintenance can be summarized into four core aspects: oil, water, electricity, and tires. Changing engine oil and oil filter is a basic service, and it's recommended to use full synthetic oil. Various fluid checks include coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. Tires should be inspected for wear and pressure, and a tire rotation is advisable. Battery testing is also crucial, especially for older batteries over three years. Replace cabin air filters and engine air filters based on environmental conditions, more frequently in northern regions during spring. Measure brake pad thickness each time and replace them if they are too thin. A basic maintenance service typically takes about two hours, and remember to reset the maintenance reminder light after completion.


