What items should be included in the third car maintenance?
2 Answers
The items that should be included in the third car maintenance are: 1. Replace engine oil and oil filter; 2. Check the exhaust system for leaks or damage; 3. Visually inspect the engine and other components in the engine compartment for leaks or damage; 4. Clean the air filter housing and replace the filter element if necessary; 5. Check and clean the spark plugs, replacing them if necessary; 6. Check the condition and tension of the timing belt; 7. Check the coolant concentration, adding coolant or adjusting the concentration if necessary; 8. Query the fault memory of the self-diagnosis system; 9. Check the thickness of the brake friction pads.
I've been driving for 20 years, and the third maintenance is a critical point, typically between 15,000 to 30,000 kilometers, when many components start to age. Essential tasks must be done: changing the engine oil and oil filter is the first step to avoid engine wear; the air filter should also be replaced to prevent dust clogging, which affects power and fuel efficiency. Don’t forget to check the braking system—replace worn brake discs and pads promptly, as safety should never be compromised. Inspect tire pressure and balance wear, and test the battery for aging to avoid the hassle of a dead battery when parked. Clean or replace the cabin air filter to maintain fresh air inside, especially as summer approaches, ensuring good cooling performance. If the spark plugs weren’t addressed in the first service, it’s best to replace them now to improve engine efficiency. Conduct a thorough inspection of the suspension and steering systems to ensure smooth driving. The overall cost isn’t high, but it prevents major repairs in the future—a small investment for peace of mind.
