What Does Regular Car Maintenance Typically Include?
2 Answers
Regular car maintenance typically includes: engine oil and oil filter, air filter, and fuel filter. Engine oil is the lubricant for engine operation, which serves to lubricate, clean, cool, seal, and reduce wear on the engine. It plays a significant role in minimizing the wear of engine components and extending their service life. Car maintenance, also known as car servicing, refers to the preventive work of regularly inspecting, cleaning, replenishing, lubricating, adjusting, or replacing certain parts of the vehicle. It mainly involves the maintenance of the engine system, transmission system, air conditioning system, etc., aiming to keep the car clean, maintain normal technical conditions, eliminate potential hazards, prevent faults, and prolong the service life.
I've been commuting by car for over a decade, and car maintenance is a routine matter for me. It generally includes changing the engine oil, which is the core item because the oil lubricates the engine to reduce wear and tear. It needs to be changed every 5,000 to 8,000 kilometers, and using fully synthetic oil yields better results. Tire inspection should not be taken lightly either—regularly check the tire pressure to keep it within the normal range. Too low pressure increases fuel consumption, while too high pressure raises the risk of a blowout. If the tires show uneven wear, a wheel alignment is necessary. The filtration system is crucial; clogged air filters and oil filters can affect performance and increase fuel consumption. Replace them when they get dirty, typically once a year. The braking system must ensure sufficient stopping power—check the brake pads and replace them if they are too thin, and maintain the fluid level within the normal range. Coolant prevents engine overheating and potential failure, while cleaning battery terminals prevents corrosion and ensures smooth starts. Additionally, maintaining small components like lights and wipers reduces the risk of accidents. Although interior cleaning isn’t essential, it makes driving more pleasant. Regular maintenance extends the car’s lifespan, saving money and ensuring safety. Each maintenance session takes me about two hours—don’t delay until major repairs are needed and regret it later.
