What Does Basic Maintenance Include?
3 Answers
Replacing the air filter, engine oil, oil filter, cabin air filter, and checking fluids, performance, tires, and lights are the main components of basic maintenance. Below is a detailed introduction: Replacing the air filter: The air filter, also known as the intake filter, is used to filter the air entering the engine, including moisture and particulate impurities in the air. It has a specific maintenance cycle and should be replaced on time to ensure optimal filtration performance. Replacing the engine oil: Engine oil provides lubrication for the engine and has a defined maintenance interval. Once the interval is reached, the oil should be replaced to maintain its performance and ensure proper lubrication. Typically, the maintenance cycle for engine oil is 5,000 km or 6 months, or 10,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first. Replacing the oil filter: The oil filter, also called the oil cleaner, is used to remove impurities from the engine oil and maintain its quality. Over time, the filter's performance degrades, so it should be replaced along with the engine oil. Replacing the cabin air filter: The cabin air filter is used to purify the air inside the car or the air entering from outside (some models also have an external cabin air filter), ensuring a relatively clean cabin environment and better air quality. Fluid checks include: windshield washer fluid, coolant, and brake fluid. Performance checks include: brake performance, battery condition, and bolt tightness. Tire checks include: tire pressure, tread wear, and balance. Light checks include: functionality of headlights (high and low beams), turn signals, fog lights, and brake lights. The purpose of vehicle maintenance is to keep the car in good technical condition. Maintenance ensures efficient, low-consumption, safe, and low-emission operation, while also reducing malfunctions and extending the vehicle's lifespan. Regular maintenance plays a crucial role in maintaining the vehicle's optimal performance.
Just had the basic maintenance done at the 4S shop, which mainly involved changing the engine oil and oil filter - crucial for the engine. The technician also checked the tire pressure and wear, ensuring the brake pads meet thickness standards. They cleaned the AC filter and air filter for free, tested the battery life, and topped up the windshield washer fluid. What reassured me most was the comprehensive computer diagnostics, thoroughly inspecting lights, chassis, brake fluid, etc. The whole process took just over an hour, effectively extending the car's lifespan while ensuring driving safety.
Basic maintenance boils down to three core tasks: changing engine oil and filters to keep the engine clean, inspecting the brake system to prevent failure, and checking tire conditions to avoid blowout risks. But the details are extensive, including tightening chassis bolts, testing lights, and checking various fluid levels. During each service, mechanics will also routinely adjust the vehicle's computer data and clear fault codes. Timely maintenance is recommended, as spending a small amount can prevent major transmission overhauls and other headaches.
