What Are the Routine Maintenance Items for Sedans?
3 Answers
Routine maintenance items for sedans are as follows: 1. Check tire pressure. If the pressure is too low, inflate the tires; if the pressure is too high, release some air. 2. Inspect the vehicle chassis for any oil leaks or loose screws. After long-distance driving, rubber bushings or oil seals under the vehicle may age, leading to oil leaks. Pay special attention to the rubber bushings on the half-shafts, suspension ball joints, and the edges of the transmission for any signs of oil seepage or aging. 3. Change the engine oil. After prolonged use, engine oil tends to degrade, losing its lubricating properties and becoming cloudy. Therefore, it's necessary to drain the old oil and replace it with fresh oil. 4. Clean or replace the air filter. The air filter ensures that only clean air enters the engine. Over time, dust and impurities in the air can clog the filter, reducing its efficiency. Decide whether to clean or replace the filter based on the amount of accumulated dust. 5. Check the brake fluid, coolant, windshield washer fluid, and antifreeze. These fluids may deplete over time due to driving and engine operation. If their levels are below normal during maintenance, they must be topped up. 6. Inspect the brake pads. Use a ruler or visually check for wear on the brake pads. If severe wear is detected, replace the brake pads promptly to avoid brake failure.
I've been driving for almost ten years now, and routine maintenance feels like second nature to me. Every month, I casually check the tire pressure and tread wear – too high or too low and you'll burn more fuel and risk punctures. I remember one time I forgot to adjust it, and on the highway, the unstable tire pressure made the car shake terribly. Every three months, it's essential to change the engine oil and filter – this is the core of maintenance; otherwise, carbon buildup in the engine makes starting difficult. I usually replace the air filter every six months to keep the intake smooth. For the braking system, I have the shop check the thickness of the brake discs and pads during each maintenance visit – never wait until they're completely worn out to replace them. I test the lights myself before driving at night to avoid not being able to see the road in the dark. Coolant and brake fluid levels also need regular checks, especially in summer when high temperatures can cause overheating. These tasks don't cost much, but doing them well keeps the car durable and worry-free.
Having worked in a repair shop for several years, the basics of routine maintenance inevitably include oil changes—fresh oil and oil filter replacements are needed approximately every 5,000 kilometers; otherwise, insufficient lubrication can damage the engine. The air filter requires regular cleaning or replacement, as clogging affects performance and increases fuel consumption. Tire inspections cover pressure balance and tread depth; imbalance leads to premature wear. The braking system involves checking brake fluid levels and pad/disc wear—excessive thinning extends stopping distances, posing dangers. Fluid checks, such as coolant to prevent boiling and transmission fluid for smooth operation, are essential. Lighting tests ensure all headlights and taillights function properly—nighttime safety is no trivial matter. Overall, a comprehensive maintenance check every six months is recommended, with early repairs for any abnormalities saving both money and hassle.
