
The reasons for performing car maintenance are: 1. To maintain the vehicle's appearance and ensure normal technical conditions; 2. To eliminate potential hazards and slow down the deterioration process; 3. To extend the service life. Car maintenance refers to the regular preventive work of inspecting, cleaning, replenishing, lubricating, adjusting, or replacing certain parts of the vehicle. The items for car maintenance include: 1. Checking and replenishing fuel and lubricants; 2. Cleaning the interior and exterior of the vehicle, as well as the engine and chassis; 3. Checking the oil levels of the generator, transmission, rear axle, and steering gear; 4. Adding lubricants as required, ensuring all oil nozzles are properly equipped and effectively filled according to regulations; 5. Checking the connection and tightening of the steering gear, tie rods, drag links, and steering arms.

I've been driving for over 20 years and believe the core of car maintenance is ensuring road safety. Not maintaining a car is like a person skipping medical check-ups - it's prone to accidents. For example, failing to replace aging brake systems in time could lead to disastrous brake failure during emergency stops on highways; not changing engine oil for too long may cause overheating and engine damage, leaving you dangerously stranded on the road. I personally experienced this once and spent hundreds on towing fees, though thankfully no one was hurt. Regularly checking small components like tires, lights, and wipers for preventive maintenance can avoid unexpected breakdowns. Especially before rainy/snowy weather or long trips, proper maintenance brings much peace of mind. A well-maintained car gives you confidence on the road without constant worry about mid-journey breakdowns causing delays.

As a young car owner, I prioritize the cost-effectiveness of maintenance. At first, I thought I could save some money by skipping maintenance, but then the cabin air filter got clogged and wasn't replaced, making summer drives unbearably hot and increasing fuel consumption. Later, I developed the habit of regularly checking and changing the engine oil and filters, which only costs a couple hundred yuan but saves me from major repairs. Last time the engine warning light came on, addressing it promptly cost just a few hundred yuan; delaying it until the engine seized could have cost tens of thousands. Maintenance isn't just about saving money—it also improves fuel efficiency. My car's fuel consumption used to be 10 liters per 100 kilometers, but now it's down to just over 8 liters, saving me thousands in fuel costs annually. Small investments yield big returns, being wallet-friendly while preventing unexpected repairs from draining savings.

Having driven for most of my life, I know that maintenance directly affects how smoothly a car runs. Smooth engine operation and quick acceleration rely entirely on oil changes and regular upkeep. A neglected car creaks, guzzles fuel, and struggles to start. I once owned a car where I delayed replacing the brake pads—the braking felt mushy, and I nearly rear-ended another vehicle. Maintenance is like giving your car a massage, keeping it in peak condition at all times. Checking spark plugs or the cooling system ensures steady performance. A healthy car means less stress for you, making long drives effortless and hassle-free.

As a parent, I insist on regular car maintenance primarily for my child's safety. With my family in the car, there's no room for negligence. Routine checks on brakes, tires, and lights can prevent sudden accidents on the road. Once, I neglected to replace worn-out wipers, leading to poor visibility in the rain and a collision with a guardrail—fortunately, my child in the back seat was unharmed. Since then, I've committed to servicing the car every six months to ensure the AC filters provide fresh air, the battery is properly charged to avoid winter startup failures, and my family stays warm. Maintenance costs little but safeguards smooth and healthy family trips. Developing this regular habit also brings peace of mind on long journeys, reducing the risk of breakdowns midway.


