What are the maintenance items for a car that has run 20,000 kilometers?
4 Answers
When a car has run 20,000 kilometers, the maintenance items include: changing the engine oil and oil filter, replacing the air filter, and some routine inspections. If the car uses ordinary material spark plugs, they also need to be replaced at 20,000 kilometers. The 20,000-kilometer service is considered an intermediate maintenance, while a major maintenance is performed every 40,000 kilometers. Vehicle maintenance refers to the preventive work of regularly inspecting, cleaning, replenishing, lubricating, adjusting, or replacing certain parts of the vehicle. The purpose of maintenance is to keep the vehicle clean, maintain normal technical conditions, eliminate hidden dangers, prevent failures, slow down the deterioration process, and extend the service life of various components.
Maintenance at 20,000 kilometers is quite important. Having driven for over a decade, I always go to the repair shop for basic services including oil and oil filter changes to prevent engine carbon buildup; checking brake pad thickness – if too thin, they must be replaced to ensure reliable braking; tire rotation is needed to balance wear and prevent premature wear on one side; replacing the air filter for smooth engine breathing; also checking battery charge, whether lights are functioning properly, and if the cooling system has any leaks. Doing these well can save fuel and extend the car's life. I always check the transmission fluid condition to avoid breakdowns on the road. Remember not to overlook small details like inspecting wipers and the radiator – regular maintenance keeps the car running longer and safer.
I prefer doing car maintenance myself. At 20,000 kilometers, I first jack up the car to change the engine oil and filter, making sure to buy the matching oil specification. Then I replace the air filter, simply removing it for cleaning or installing a new one. I rotate the tires myself and use tools to check tire pressure and wear for evenness. For the braking system, I inspect the contact surfaces of the pads and discs - if they have sufficient thickness, there's no issue. I test the battery with a voltmeter to prevent sudden power loss. The cabin air filter often gets dirty, and replacing it myself saves money. Regularly wiping dust from the engine compartment keeps the car running smoother while saving both money and hassle.
With children at home, safety comes first, so the 20,000-kilometer maintenance must be thorough. Primarily, change the engine oil and oil filter to ensure smooth engine operation. Pay special attention to inspecting the brake discs and pads to guarantee effective braking in emergencies. Don’t overlook tire conditions—rotate and adjust them to balance pressure and prevent blowouts. Also, have the technician check the cabin air filter to maintain fresh air inside the car. Battery and lighting tests are crucial too, avoiding hazards during night driving. I always go to a professional shop for service. It may cost a bit more, but it’s comprehensive and reliable, ensuring worry-free trips for the whole family.
