What are the main tasks in car maintenance?

[AlessandraDella]

Car maintenance mainly includes: 1. Checking and replenishing fuel and lubricants; 2. Cleaning the interior and exterior of the vehicle, as well as the engine and chassis; 3. Checking the oil levels in the generator, transmission, rear axle, and steering gear; 4. Adding lubricants as specified, ensuring all parts of the vehicle have fully equipped and effective oil nozzles for proper lubrication; 5. Checking the connection and tightness of the steering gear, tie rods, and steering arms. Car maintenance refers to the preventive work of regularly inspecting, cleaning, supplying, lubricating, adjusting, or replacing certain parts of the car. Its main purpose is to keep the car clean, maintain normal technical conditions, eliminate potential hazards, slow down the deterioration process, and extend the service life.

[SaraDella]

When I first started driving, I was also unclear about what maintenance involved. Later, every time I went to the shop, they changed the engine oil and oil filter, which helps the engine run more smoothly; checked the tire pressure and wear to avoid the risk of a blowout; inspected the brake fluid and brake pads to ensure the brakes were responsive; replaced the air filter to prevent dust from entering the engine; and also checked small items like lights, wipers, and battery charge. Regular maintenance really works. I usually go every 5,000 kilometers—it not only extends the car's lifespan but also saves hassle. It's much more cost-effective than waiting for a problem to arise before fixing it, and it makes driving on the highway more stable. If you have a new car, these basic items can help you gain experience.

[SanEsther]

After driving for so many years, I've learned that maintenance can't be taken lightly, and it mostly revolves around the engine. Routine tasks include changing the oil and filters, and replacing spark plugs every 20,000 kilometers to prevent ignition failure. The suspension system needs regular checks, as worn shock absorbers affect comfort. Belts and chains should be inspected to avoid breaks that could lead to major repairs. Coolant levels must also be ensured to prevent leaks. I also pay attention to window seals and cabin air filters to keep odors out. Keeping up with these small tasks reduces engine strain, saves money, and provides peace of mind—especially before long trips, ensuring a thorough check to avoid breakdowns on the road.

[Clarence]

The core of maintenance is to ensure safe driving. For example, checking the brake system—monitoring fluid levels and pad thickness—otherwise, emergency braking might fail; tire pressure and tread wear affect traction, making skidding more likely in the rain; seatbelt mechanisms should be tested for secure fastening; lights and wipers must function properly for clear visibility at night or in the rain. These items are mandatory checks during biannual maintenance. Spending a little time to prevent mishaps on the road also ensures peace of mind for family members sitting in the back.

[McIsabela]

From a cost-saving perspective, maintenance is quite practical: Regularly changing oil and filters can reduce engine wear and avoid expensive repairs; cleaning the air filter improves fuel efficiency, saving some money on gas; checking the cooling system prevents overheating damage to major components. Overall, maintenance costs just a few hundred dollars, whereas ignoring these small tasks could lead to engine repairs costing thousands. I make it a habit to record mileage and perform timely maintenance, keeping the car running smoothly and eco-friendly. In the long run, this approach is more worthwhile than purchasing collision insurance.

[LeVictoria]

Seasonal maintenance varies: Before winter, ensure antifreeze levels and battery charge are sufficient to prevent starting difficulties; in summer, check the air conditioning cooling and fan cooling systems; if frequently driving on mountain roads, pay extra attention to tire tread and spare tire pressure. These are covered in the annual major maintenance. I also add wiper checks to prepare for the rainy season, adapting to different weather conditions to make the car more durable.