What is the Mechanism of Automobile Performance Degradation?
2 Answers
Automobile performance degradation mechanisms can generally be categorized into tangible wear and intangible wear: I. Tangible wear can be divided into the first type of tangible wear and the second type of tangible wear: 1. The first type of tangible wear refers to the loss caused by the decline in automobile performance due to damage such as friction wear, deformation, and fatigue of components under load; 2. The second type of tangible wear refers to the chemical and electrochemical interactions between components and external media during idle periods, leading to corrosion of metal parts, aging and deterioration of non-metallic products, and even loss of functionality. II. Intangible wear can also be divided into the first type of intangible wear and the second type of intangible wear: 1. The first type of intangible wear refers to the devaluation of the original automobile due to advancements in science and technology, which reduce the reproduction cost of automobiles with the same structure (same model); 2. The second type of intangible wear refers to the devaluation of the original automobile due to advancements in science and technology, which lead to the production of new automobiles with more advanced and efficient performance.
I've discussed this issue with some car-savvy friends, and there are actually many reasons for a car's performance to deteriorate. It's mainly due to the wear and aging of various components over time and use. For example, the piston rings and cylinder walls of the engine gradually wear out, leading to a drop in compression pressure and reduced ignition efficiency, making the car feel sluggish and slower to accelerate. Then there's the transmission system—aging oil seals in automatic transmissions can cause leaks, and gear wear can make shifting less smooth. The suspension system is even more noticeable; when shock absorbers fatigue and lose their elasticity, the ride becomes bumpy over rough roads, and handling deteriorates. The electrical system is also a problem—when the battery reaches the end of its lifespan, starting becomes slow, and corroded wiring can cause poor contact. I think all these factors add up, and if you neglect regular oil and filter changes, sludge buildup makes the engine more prone to failure. Ultimately, performance declines steadily, fuel consumption rises, and it’s really heartbreaking.
