What maintenance is required for a car that has run 100,000 kilometers?
3 Answers
For a car that has reached 100,000 kilometers, the major maintenance items are as follows: 1. Use engine oil of the appropriate grade and replace the oil and filter regularly (every 5,000 kilometers). Maintain the air filter frequently and replace it periodically (every 20,000 kilometers). Clean the fuel system regularly and replace the fuel filter periodically (every 30,000 kilometers). Maintain the radiator cooling net regularly (every 30,000 kilometers). Replace the spark plugs periodically (every 40,000 kilometers or based on driving conditions). 2. The most essential maintenance for a car is changing the engine oil and oil filter. The most frequent maintenance task is washing the car. The parts that should be checked most often are the tire surface and pressure, oil level, coolant level, and brake fluid level. Major maintenance requires replacing all vehicle fluids, the engine accessory belt, spark plugs, cleaning the throttle injector, cleaning the three-way catalytic converter, intake tract, and replacing the gasoline filter.
My car has passed the 100,000-kilometer mark several times, and I feel this is a particularly critical point for maintenance, with safety being the top priority. It's essential to inspect the braking system, such as the wear level of the brake pads. If they're too thin, it can affect the braking distance, and the danger is significant if the car can't stop in time. Also, check if the brake fluid needs replacing—when it ages, its boiling point drops, making it prone to failure when braking downhill. Tire wear should be thoroughly examined; bald tires increase the risk of skidding in rainy conditions, so replace them if necessary. If the suspension system, like the shock absorbers, is worn out, it can make the car unstable when turning, raising the chance of accidents. Worn spark plugs can make ignition difficult, reducing engine power and increasing fuel consumption—replacing them is a safe bet. Don’t forget to check the timing belt; many cars require replacement at this stage—if it snaps, the engine could be ruined, leading to heavy losses. The coolant should also be replaced to prevent engine overheating. In short, safety is no small matter—don’t skimp on these costs. Spend an hour on a comprehensive check to ensure a smooth and safe journey.
From a cost-saving perspective, the biggest fear of driving an old car is the expense of major repairs, and the 100,000-kilometer maintenance is a great opportunity to save money. Replacing the timing belt is crucial—spending a few hundred dollars can prevent the risk of engine failure costing tens of thousands. Oil and filters should be renewed, as increased friction from old ones leads to higher fuel consumption and long-term losses. Changing the transmission fluid once can extend the drivetrain's lifespan and save on major repair costs. Worn-out spark plugs cause poor ignition; replacing them can save about 10% in fuel expenses. Inspect the cooling system for leaks to avoid costly engine overheating repairs. It's advisable to thoroughly check battery life and tire balance to prevent expensive roadside breakdowns and towing fees. Routine minor maintenance is an investment—spending a little now to prevent sudden issues saves money and hassle in the long run. Don’t wait until something breaks to regret it.
