Why Do Cars Need Regular Maintenance?

[VanViolet]

Car maintenance is necessary for the following reasons: 1. To keep the vehicle clean and tidy; 2. To ensure normal technical conditions and eliminate potential hazards; 3. To prevent malfunctions; 4. To slow down the deterioration process; 5. To extend the service life. Car maintenance refers to the preventive work of regularly inspecting, cleaning, replenishing, lubricating, adjusting, or replacing certain parts of the vehicle, also known as vehicle servicing. The items included in car maintenance are: 1. Changing the engine oil and oil filter; 2. Replacing the air filter; 3. Inspecting the spark plugs; 4. Replacing the fuel filter; 5. Adding brake fluid; 6. Changing the transmission oil; 7. Cleaning the throttle body; 8. Cleaning the fuel injectors; 9. Checking the tires and braking system; 10. Replacing the cabin air filter; 11. Replacing the engine belt.

[LeTheo]

As an average car owner who has been driving for five or six years, I find regular maintenance absolutely essential. The key is safety—don’t underestimate it; driving on the road is no joke. Take the braking system, for example. If you don’t inspect it periodically and the brake pads wear out completely, you won’t be able to stop in an emergency, and by then, it’s too late when an accident happens. Tires also need attention—insufficient tire pressure or worn-out treads can easily cause skidding in the rain, and a blowout on the highway is even more dangerous. Then there’s saving money. Small oversights can turn into big problems. For instance, if you don’t change deteriorated engine oil, the engine could overheat and get damaged, costing thousands to repair—far more expensive than regular maintenance. And don’t overlook details like lights and wipers. Replacing old wipers before the rainy season ensures clear visibility and peace of mind. Once you develop the habit, driving becomes much more reassuring, especially in city traffic or on long trips, without worrying about car troubles. It’s really best to follow the manual and not delay maintenance.

[VonBrielle]

Let me share some money-saving maintenance tips from a veteran driver with 20 years of experience. Since buying my new car, I've strictly followed the maintenance schedule - changing engine oil, checking belts, and keeping the engine well-lubricated for smooth operation and extended lifespan. For example, a clogged air filter increases fuel consumption, costing extra dollars per 100 kilometers. Battery checks are crucial too, especially in winter when aging batteries may fail to start, leading to expensive towing fees and inconvenience. Compared to friends who neglect maintenance, one ignored a clogged radiator which eventually caused engine failure, resulting in tens of thousands in losses. Spending small amounts to prevent major repairs is wise investment. Cars are like people - early treatment of minor issues maintains health. Also, rotating tires every 10,000 kilometers ensures even wear and extends usage, saving significant money over years.

[LaEthan]

From an environmental perspective, I pay attention to reducing pollution while driving. Regular maintenance keeps the engine running more efficiently, such as using good engine oil to reduce friction and noise, resulting in cleaner emissions. The condition of spark plugs affects ignition efficiency; new spark plugs ensure more complete fuel combustion, reducing carbon monoxide and particulate emissions, which is better for the environment. The air conditioning system is also important—if refrigerant leaks are not repaired, harmful substances are released, polluting the air and wasting energy. Each small maintenance task adds up, making the car more environmentally friendly overall and reducing carbon emissions in the long run. Doing simple tasks yourself and learning a bit of knowledge can help, as environmental protection starts with daily actions. Sustainable development is not just an empty slogan.