What Does Basic Car Maintenance Include?
3 Answers
4S shops can divide maintenance into major maintenance and minor maintenance. Generally, minor maintenance refers to maintenance performed every 5,000 to 7,000 kilometers driven, while major maintenance refers to maintenance performed every 20,000 kilometers or more. Basic car maintenance includes the following items: 1. Replacing the fuel filter: Gasoline usually contains extremely small impurities, and the engine's fuel injectors, especially those in direct-injection engines, have higher requirements for fuel quality. Therefore, a dedicated fuel filter is needed to filter out impurities and provide cleaner fuel for the engine. 2. Replacing the ignition coil: As one of the vulnerable parts on the engine, the ignition coil is also an area that 4S shops pay close attention to during major maintenance.
Basic maintenance refers to the regular upkeep of a vehicle. After driving for over a decade, I've found that the core tasks include changing the engine oil and oil filter every few thousand kilometers to keep the engine lubricated and running smoothly. Tire inspection is crucial—checking air pressure and tread wear, plus rotation and balancing to prevent uneven wear. The braking system must be kept responsive, with brake pads and fluid levels prioritized for safety. Air and fuel filters should be replaced on schedule to prevent clogging. Coolant and battery maintenance are essential too, with battery terminal cleaning to prevent corrosion. Complete lighting tests are a must, especially for headlights and taillights during night driving. Don't overlook the suspension and steering systems—ensure there's no looseness. These simple steps save money and prevent major repairs; I always get them done at a trusted shop. Regular maintenance extends a car's lifespan and provides peace of mind. Once it becomes a habit, daily checks take just ten minutes, making it effortless and worry-free.
I'm used to doing some simple maintenance myself, like spending some time checking the car every weekend. I check the dipstick to make sure the oil is clean and at the right level, and change it if it's dirty. I measure tire pressure with a small tool to keep it at the recommended value and prevent blowouts. I test the brake lights and turn signals to make sure they're all working, with a friend helping to check. I take a quick look under the hood to ensure wires are tidy and there are no leaks. I clean or replace the air filter every quarter—buying a new one and replacing it myself isn't hard. I clean the battery terminals to avoid oxidation and poor contact. These small daily tasks save money and time, especially for beginners. Adding windshield washer fluid or changing wiper blades is also quick. Keeping the car well-maintained makes it run smoothly, saves on fuel costs, and feels like taking care of an old friend—simple and thoughtful. Starting with small tasks builds confidence.
