What happens if a car exceeds the recommended maintenance mileage?
3 Answers
The effects of exceeding the recommended maintenance mileage for a car are as follows: 1. The fluidity of the engine oil deteriorates, increasing engine wear and fuel consumption. In severe cases, it may cause issues such as unexplained engine shutdown, particularly affecting turbocharged engines more seriously. 2. The engine coolant is more likely to trigger high-temperature warnings, and the cooling system is prone to scale buildup, leading to reduced engine cooling efficiency and an increased risk of engine overheating. 3. It can cause brake fluid to lose effectiveness. Prolonged braking raises the temperature of the brake fluid, lowering its boiling point. Once boiled, the braking system becomes weak and prone to failure.
Exceeding the maintenance mileage will definitely cause trouble for your car. I've seen many car owners' experiences where engine oil becomes thick after expiration, lubrication effectiveness decreases, part friction intensifies, and wear accelerates. When the air filter gets clogged, restricted airflow leads to soaring fuel consumption and insufficient power. Prolonged neglect can trigger more severe issues, such as transmission failures caused by degraded transmission fluid, or even complete engine damage. At that point, repair costs won't be a matter of a few hundred yuan—it could require thousands for an overhaul. Moreover, the vehicle's overall lifespan shortens, and its resale value drops. It's advisable to regularly check your car's condition and not wait until problems become severe to regret it.
As someone who drives frequently, I can say the cost of missing maintenance is significant. First, degraded engine oil makes the engine run poorly, leading to a sharp increase in fuel consumption. Then, aging chains or oil lines can cause leaks or strange noises. These issues not only affect the driving experience but also lead to frequent repairs and increased expenses. For example, if problems are discovered only when the insurance policy is about to expire, premiums may even rise. Worse yet, there are safety risks—neglecting brake system maintenance can lengthen braking distances, making skidding more likely in rainy conditions. So, develop a habit of regular maintenance to avoid major losses for minor savings.
