What needs to be replaced during a minor maintenance?
3 Answers
A minor maintenance requires the replacement of engine oil and the oil filter. Engine oil is composed of base oil and additives. The car engine needs lubrication, and engine oil serves the functions of lubrication, cleaning, sealing, and cooling. However, as the car is driven, the base oil and additives in the engine oil can deteriorate and become ineffective. Therefore, to protect the engine, it is necessary to change the engine oil regularly. The oil filter is designed to remove debris, gum, and moisture from the engine oil, delivering clean oil to various lubrication points. Over time, the filtering performance of the oil filter declines and may even fail. If not replaced in time, it can negatively impact the engine's performance.
If you drive frequently, I recommend doing a minor maintenance every 5,000 kilometers or about every six months, mainly changing the engine oil and oil filter. Over time, the oil can become dirty and thick, affecting engine lubrication, which may lead to reduced power or accelerated wear. The oil filter is responsible for filtering out impurities, and replacing it keeps the oil cleaner. Also, check the air filter—if you've driven in dusty areas, it might need replacing to prevent restricted airflow that can make the car work harder. I usually suggest checking the brake fluid and coolant levels at the same time, along with inspecting tire wear. These small steps can prevent bigger issues, saving money and giving peace of mind. Don’t wait for problems to arise—regular maintenance helps your car last longer and stay more fuel-efficient.
I've been driving for over a decade, and the core of minor maintenance is changing the engine oil and oil filter – these two are absolutely essential. Expired engine oil leads to louder engine noise and higher fuel consumption, and a clogged oil filter is even worse. The air filter also needs regular replacement, especially when driving in cities with poor air quality, as restricted airflow will slow down acceleration. Additionally, I always check the brake pad thickness and tire pressure during maintenance to avoid breakdowns on the road. Minor maintenance is basic upkeep – don’t skip it to save trouble, or engine repairs will cost much more. Make it a habit to set aside some time each month for these checks; your car will last longer, and you’ll have peace of mind when traveling with children or family.
