What Maintenance Should Be Done for a New Car at 40,000 Kilometers?
4 Answers
A new car reaching 40,000 kilometers requires major maintenance: 1. Engine oil and oil filter must be replaced, as they are required for every maintenance service; 2. Air filter and cabin air filter should be inspected first to determine if replacement is necessary. If they are not heavily soiled, cleaning may suffice for continued use, but if they are severely dirty, immediate replacement is necessary; 3. Fuel filter, as many vehicle models require replacement at 40,000 kilometers; 4. Key inspection of various fluids, such as coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid, most of which will need replacement; 5. Under normal circumstances, spark plugs also require replacement; 6. Brake pads and tires should be inspected, and if any abnormalities are found, they should be replaced promptly. The specific parts that need replacement may vary depending on the brand and model of the vehicle. It is recommended to refer to the maintenance manual and perform maintenance according to the items listed in the manual.
My car underwent a major service at 40,000 kilometers. Changing the engine oil and oil filter was essential, as the oil becomes thinner with prolonged use. The air filter also needed replacement – when opened, it was completely clogged with dust, which would hinder air intake efficiency. The mechanic mentioned that brake fluid is often overlooked; it should actually be replaced every two years, as moisture accumulation over time can increase braking distance. All spark plugs were replaced too, as the factory-installed ones typically last about 40,000 kilometers. The tires were rotated front to back to ensure even wear, extending their lifespan by about six months. Finally, a complimentary inspection of the chassis suspension and lighting revealed a cracked steering tie-rod boot, which was promptly replaced. The entire service cost around two thousand yuan, but it's more economical than major repairs down the line.
Just completed the 40,000 km maintenance for my car. Mainly replaced the three filters and one oil: engine oil and oil filter cost 200 RMB, saved 80 by replacing the cabin air filter myself, and the throttle response improved significantly after changing the air filter. Special reminder to replace the brake fluid—the original DOT4 fluid absorbs moisture, lowering its boiling point. My Golf's brake fluid was tested with a moisture meter showing over 3% water content, so it was replaced. The spark plugs were also replaced with NGK iridium ones after inspection revealed excessive electrode gap. Found the coolant level below the MIN line and topped up half a liter. Noticed uneven tire wear and had them rotated. Also asked the shop to reset the ECU data and clear fault codes. The whole process took three hours, but the car's performance is now back to like-new condition.
The 40,000-kilometer maintenance focuses on fluids and wear parts. Engine oil must be replaced when its lubrication deteriorates due to aging, and a clogged air filter can starve the engine of oxygen. Brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air, and excessive water content may lead to brake failure, which is particularly dangerous. Spark plugs begin to lose performance at this stage, causing poor ignition and increased fuel consumption. It's recommended to perform a tire rotation to balance wear, check tire pressure, and inspect suspension bushings. Additionally, pay attention to the coolant's freezing point, as temperatures below -25°C in northern winters can easily freeze and crack the pipes. Have the repair shop use a computer to read ECU data and clear historical fault codes for a more accurate assessment of the vehicle's condition.
