What are the maintenance items for a small car?
3 Answers
Small car maintenance includes many items, such as replacing the oil filter every time, checking and replenishing fuel and lubricating oil, and cleaning the interior and exterior of the vehicle as well as the engine chassis. Check the horn, lights, wipers, steel plates, and springs for any breakage, and whether the lugs and riding bolts are loose. Inspect the half-shafts, tires, nuts, and steel rims for integrity, and check if the tires are damaged or cracked. Drain oil and water deposits, and check the oil levels of the engine, transmission, rear axle, and steering gear, adding lubricating oil as required. Check the connections and tightness of the steering gear, tie rods, straight rods, and steering arms. Inspect and adjust the sealing of the air compressor and engine fan belts. Check the brake valve and brake pipes for air leaks. Inspect the brake fluid level in the hydraulic brake master cylinder and check the clutch pedal. Examine the battery casing, clear the vent holes on the small cover, and replenish the electrolyte. At 1000 kilometers, replace the engine oil, oil filter, and transmission oil. Depending on the local environment and driving conditions, it may also be necessary to replace the air conditioning filter, which functions to filter the air entering the car, ensuring clean air inside the vehicle.
Every time I take my car for maintenance, I pay special attention to several basic items to keep it in good condition. First is changing the engine oil and oil filter, which is crucial for engine lubrication and should be done approximately every 5,000 kilometers or six months. Then comes checking tire wear and air pressure—imbalance can lead to increased fuel consumption and unstable handling; last time I neglected this, I almost had a tire blowout. Don’t forget to replace the air filter and cabin air filter, as they keep the engine cleaner and the interior air fresher. Brake pad thickness tests and light checks are also essential for driving safety. In daily use, I also recommend checking the windshield wipers and coolant to extend their lifespan. Regular maintenance doesn’t take much time but can prevent major repair troubles.
I believe safety-related items in car maintenance should be prioritized. Based on my personal experience, brake system inspection is the top priority, including brake pads, brake discs, and hydraulic fluid testing, as excessive wear can affect emergency stopping. Tire rotation and pressure adjustment should not be neglected either, as both overinflation and underinflation can lead to accidents. Battery condition and charging system also need regular checks, especially during autumn and winter, as aging batteries can easily cause breakdowns. Lighting tests, such as headlights and brake lights, ensure visibility at night. Other items like engine oil changes and filter maintenance, while not directly safety-related, help keep the engine healthy and prevent accidents. Safe driving is a responsibility, and I make it a point to have these checked quarterly.
