
The 40,000-kilometer maintenance for a vehicle is a major service, primarily involving the replacement of the engine oil, three filters, and all vehicle fluids, along with necessary routine inspections such as replacing brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and coolant. Below are the relevant details: In addition to the main maintenance items, the service should also include checking the wear condition of the brake pads, inspecting tire wear and tire pressure, and assessing the aging and wear of rubber components like the engine's external belts. It is essential to check for oil leaks in the engine, transmission, and shock absorbers. Depending on the vehicle's usage, the carbon buildup in the intake and exhaust systems should be inspected. If necessary, the exhaust system should be cleaned and maintained, which generally includes cleaning the fuel injectors, throttle idle valve, intake manifold, and catalytic converter.

My car just passed the 40,000-kilometer mark not long ago, so I took it to the maintenance shop and learned a lot. The essential tasks include changing the engine oil and oil filter—these are must-dos to prevent carbon buildup in the engine. The air filter also needs replacement, as accumulated dust over time can affect engine breathing. If the spark plugs haven’t been changed yet, now’s the time to avoid rough starts. Tire wear should be checked, and rotating them is recommended to ensure even usage. Don’t forget to check the brake fluid and coolant levels—too low could lead to overheating or brake failure. I also had the mechanic inspect the battery and suspension system. Overall, it cost a few hundred bucks, but I feel much more at ease. The key is not disrupting daily use and preventing major repairs by addressing issues early.

At the 40,000-kilometer mark, the core of maintenance is engine care. I always think it's essential to change the oil and filter first to clean the internals and reduce wear. If the air filter is dirty, it must be replaced; otherwise, insufficient airflow can affect performance. Replacing the spark plugs is also necessary, as they tend to degrade around 40,000 kilometers, causing delayed ignition, which can be troublesome. If the fuel filter has impurities, replace it promptly. Additionally, conduct a thorough inspection of the brake pad wear—replace them if they're too thin to avoid accidents. Adjust tire pressure and balance to ensure smooth driving. Finally, scan the chassis and lighting system to confirm everything is normal, saving both hassle and money. Don't delay until major issues arise, or you'll regret it later.

For budget-conscious car owners, don't waste money on 40,000 km maintenance. I'm used to changing the oil filter myself - it's super cheap online. Just clean or replace the air filter for 20-30 yuan. Spark plugs can be delayed if working normally - saving comes first. Brake systems require professional inspection though, safety isn't negotiable. Tire rotation is easy DIY. Total cost under a few hundred yuan - focus on key items. The car runs well at low cost, maintaining it won't break the bank.


