What is the checklist for a major car maintenance at 100,000 kilometers?
3 Answers
At 100,000 kilometers, the car maintenance items include changing the engine oil, oil filter, cabin air filter, and cleaning the engine intake and fuel system. Changing the engine oil: Replacing the engine oil and oil filter is a mandatory task for every maintenance. Due to the harsh conditions of high temperature and high pressure inside the engine, the shelf life of the engine oil is significantly shortened, and its performance declines sharply. Over time, it fails to protect the engine. The oil filter prevents impurities from mixing into the oil, which can cause oxidation and produce sludge that clogs the fuel system. Both the engine oil and oil filter should be replaced simultaneously. Regular replacement of the cabin air filter: The working principle of the cabin air filter is similar to that of the air filter. To ensure fresh air while the car's air conditioning is on, the cabin air filter should be replaced regularly. If you notice an unpleasant odor or a large amount of dust blowing out from the vents when using the air conditioning, the cabin air filter should be replaced promptly.
The 100,000-kilometer major maintenance is a critical checkpoint as a car enters its middle age. Over the past few years, I've driven several cars, and each time they reach this milestone, they require careful attention. The checklist includes changing the engine oil and filter, replacing spark plugs, inspecting or replacing transmission fluid, renewing coolant, testing the braking system and replacing brake fluid, rotating and balancing tires, replacing air and cabin filters, and importantly—checking if the timing belt needs replacement. These are the basics. For instance, worn spark plugs can increase fuel consumption, and delaying transmission fluid changes may lead to internal wear. Don’t forget to inspect the suspension and check for loose chassis bolts. Comprehensive care ensures smoother driving and reduces the risk of breakdowns. The budget is around two to three thousand yuan, but cutting corners isn’t advisable—neglecting maintenance now could double repair costs later and compromise safety.
I personally accompanied my car through its 100,000-kilometer major maintenance, and it left a deep impression. The key tasks included changing the oil trio: engine oil, oil filter, and air filter; replacing spark plugs to enhance ignition efficiency; renewing automatic transmission fluid to prevent slipping; replacing coolant to avoid overheating; checking brake fluid and brake pads to ensure reliable braking; performing tire rotation and balancing to extend their lifespan; and installing a new cabin air filter to improve in-car air quality. My takeaway is not to skimp on small expenses, such as inspecting the timing belt—if not replaced, it could snap and damage the engine. The total cost was around 3,000 RMB, and regular maintenance can save over 10% on fuel while providing peace of mind while driving. Finding a trustworthy shop and booking in advance saves both money and time.
