Five Directions for Car Maintenance

The same car can have different service lives in the hands of different users, and these differences can even be quite significant. So, what affects a vehicle's lifespan? Apart from the level of care during daily driving, the most important factor is the maintenance of the car.

1. Running-in period maintenance, operation must be thorough

Many car owners receive their new vehicles but often neglect to read the owner's manual, having only a vague understanding of the break-in period. In reality, the break-in period remains quite important as it affects the subsequent use and maintenance of the car.

The break-in period for a car refers to the initial driving phase of a new vehicle or one that has undergone major repairs, typically covering 1000~1500 kilometers. This is the essential mileage required to ensure that mechanical components fully contact, friction, adapt, and stabilize. The engine break-in takes approximately 1000 kilometers. For the first 500 kilometers, it's advisable to drive at speeds of 60-70 km/h, keeping the engine speed below 2200 rpm for optimal performance. The transmission primarily involves the break-in between gears, with a break-in period of about 1500 kilometers of driving distance.

During the break-in period, it is essential to pay attention to the coordination of all parts of the car. If anything seems off, it should be brought up during the first maintenance. For maintenance, simply follow the manufacturer's recommendations in the vehicle manual. Once a certain mileage or time is reached, promptly conduct inspections and maintenance, including oil and filter changes, along with a comprehensive check of the chassis system.

2. Daily Maintenance

Maintenance is not a one-time task but a long-term upkeep, and we should pay attention to the details during our daily use of the vehicle. For example, before setting off, clear debris around the wipers, check for any oil leaks, and be attentive to any unusual noises while driving. If signs of car trouble are detected, they should be addressed and resolved promptly.

tire

Tire maintenance is very important. If the tire pressure is too high or too low, it may cause abnormal tire wear, and in severe cases, it may lead to a blowout. Therefore, it is recommended to check the tires every month.

1. Check if the tire pressure is normal and try to keep it within 2.5.

2. Check for tire cracks; if the tread is severely worn, it is recommended to replace them.

3. Check the tires for stones or nails and clean them promptly.

belt

1. Check the tension: If the belt's deflection is around 10 millimeters, the belt tension is considered just right. If the tension is too high or too loose, it may cause slippage or incomplete transmission. However, adjusting it too tight can lead to stretching and deformation of the drive belt.

2. Aging of the belt, in which case the belt needs to be replaced.

Brake fluid

The braking system also contains oil, and brake fluid is prone to absorbing moisture, which can degrade its performance and affect braking effectiveness. In severe cases, it may even lead to brake failure. Typically, it's recommended to replace the brake fluid every 20,000 to 30,000 kilometers or every two years.

Engine oil

When checking the oil level, simply drive the vehicle onto a flat surface, then pull out the dipstick to inspect the oil level. Observe whether the highest point of the oil trace on the dipstick falls within the specified range. If the oil level is below the lower limit mark, you need to add oil, but do not exceed the upper limit mark.

Engine coolant

We usually need to check whether the coolant level is within the normal range. If it is between the full and low marks, it is normal; otherwise, coolant needs to be added, and the level should not exceed the full mark after adding. Also, be aware that if the coolant level drops rapidly in a short period, check for any leaks.

Air filter

Regularly inspect the air filter. If minimal dust is found, it can be cleaned by blowing compressed air from the inside out. If the dust accumulation is severe, consider replacing the air filter.

Oxygen sensor

Here, just check if the fixed position is secure, the electrolyte should be within the range between the upper and lower limits, and keep the battery clean and dry.

3. Regular Maintenance

Each component inside a car has its own maintenance schedule, which is detailed in the vehicle's user manual. After purchasing a car, owners should familiarize themselves with the maintenance guidelines to know when their vehicle requires servicing. This maintenance encompasses a variety of items, with specific details and timing that owners need to manage themselves, also taking into account the advice of professional repair shop staff.

4. Seasonal Maintenance

In spring, as temperatures begin to rise, it's necessary to adjust the tire pressure; otherwise, it will accelerate the wear of car tires. With continuous spring rains, everyone should pay attention to cleaning the windshield wipers and wiping them dry. Additionally, the interior of the car tends to feel damp in spring, which can breed many bacteria. Therefore, remember to open the car windows, sunroof, and vents when the car is not in use, and clean and disinfect the interior with a specialized cleaning agent.

In autumn, there tends to be more morning dew, making car surfaces quite damp. If there are scratches on the car's surface, it's essential to get them repainted to prevent rusting in those areas. Pay special attention to the defrosting vents below the windshield—ensure they are blowing air properly and providing sufficient heat.

In summer, the corrosion from acid rain and the direct exposure to intense sunlight inevitably oxidize the car's paint. As the seasons change, it's better for car owners to give their vehicles a thorough cosmetic treatment (a series of steps from cleaning and polishing to waxing, sealing, or coating). The high temperatures and frequent rains of summer lead to the growth of many bacteria in the car's carpets and other hidden areas, so before autumn arrives, it's also necessary to disinfect and clean the vehicle's interior.

The arrival of winter often brings difficulties in cold starting cars, and sometimes even failure to ignite. In northern regions, temperatures can drop below zero degrees Celsius during winter, so it's essential to promptly add or replace antifreeze, check the condition of the engine oil, and determine whether it needs to be changed.