What Maintenance Does a 40,000 km Car Need?

[VanJosephine]

Here are the maintenance items required for a car that has traveled 40,000 kilometers: 1. Engine oil (lubricant)/oil filter: For normal models, replacement is mandatory every 5,000 kilometers or six months. If full synthetic oil is used, it can be replaced every 8,000 kilometers at most. If the car hasn't reached 5,000 kilometers, the oil and oil filter should be replaced at least every six months. 2. Replace the air filter and cabin air filter: The air filter and cabin air filter should be replaced every 20,000 kilometers or two years. In regions with poor climate conditions or high dust levels, this interval should be shortened to one year. 3. Replace the fuel filter, brake fluid, and transmission oil: Taking Japanese and Korean models with shorter maintenance cycles as an example, a "major maintenance" is required every 40,000 kilometers. In addition to the parts mentioned above, the fuel filter and brake fluid must also be replaced. For automatic transmission models, the transmission oil should also be replaced. For rear-wheel-drive vehicles, the differential oil should be replaced as well. 4. Tires: Consider replacing tires older than four years, even if the tread wear isn't severe. For long-distance driving, be aware of tire aging. If the brake pads have been replaced three times, the brake discs should also be considered for replacement. 5. Battery: A car battery should typically be replaced every two years, and most cars cover around 40,000 kilometers in two years. Even if the mileage is under 40,000 km, it's advisable to check whether the battery is depleted, as a sudden failure to start the car can be highly inconvenient.

[VanValeria]

I've just hit 40,000 kilometers, and this stage of maintenance is quite important. It's essential to change the engine oil and oil filter to keep the engine well-lubricated and avoid wear. Check the air filter; replace it if it's dirty to maintain stable fuel consumption. The tires must be rotated to balance wear and extend their lifespan. Inspect the brake pads' thickness and replace them promptly if they're thin—safety is not something to take lightly. The spark plugs might also need checking or replacing to ensure smooth ignition. Refer to the vehicle manual for the transmission fluid; many cars recommend changing it at this point. Check the coolant level to prevent overheating issues. It's also a good idea to inspect the suspension system for any looseness that could affect handling. After completing these tasks, the car will run much smoother. Regular maintenance now can save you from costly repairs later.

[McJackson]

My car has just passed 40,000 kilometers, and I was quite worried about what maintenance to do when I was a beginner. The key is to change the oil filter for smoother engine operation. The brake system needs thorough inspection—worn discs and pads pose risks. Check tire pressure; severe wear impacts safety. Replace the air filter promptly to improve intake efficiency. Inspect coolant to prevent leaks, and clean battery terminals to avoid corrosion. It's best to get a comprehensive check-up at a professional shop, including lights and belt tension. These small steps add up to significant protection—don't overlook them.

[Erick]

As a daily commuter car, the key to 40,000 km maintenance lies in reliability and durability. The priority is to change the engine oil and filters to reduce carbon buildup risks. Rotate and balance the tires to extend their service life. Check brake components for wear to ensure timely braking response. Replace the air filter if clogged for better fuel efficiency. Inspect the coolant level in the cooling system to prevent overheating issues. Give the suspension a quick check to avoid bump-related problems. Sticking to regular maintenance can add years to your car's life, saving money and ensuring worry-free trips.