For car enthusiasts, a car is not just a means of transportation, but also an indispensable companion in life. Regular maintenance is the key to ensuring this "companion" enjoys longevity, remains in good condition, and stays safe and reliable. Many car owners only focus on oil changes, yet overlook the systematic maintenance of other components. Today, we will delve into 5 key steps to extend the lifespan of car parts, helping you progress from a novice to a maintenance expert.
Step 1: Regular Inspection of Tires and Brake System
As the only part of the vehicle in contact with the ground, tire condition is directly related to life safety.
- Tires: Check tire pressure to ensure it stays within the standard range at least once a month, and simultaneously inspect the tread wear indicators. If uneven wear is detected, it may indicate misalignment and requires prompt attention.
- Brake System: Listen for abnormal noises when braking and feel if the brake pedal becomes soft. Generally, brake pads should be considered for replacement when worn down to one-third of their original thickness—never wait until a metallic scraping sound occurs to address the issue.
Step 2: Timely Replacement of Air Filters and Cabin Air Filters
Filters act as the "masks" of a car, protecting the respiratory health of the engine and the vehicle’s occupants.
- Air Filter: It prevents dust and debris from entering the engine cylinders. Replacement is recommended every 10,000 kilometers or once a year; if you frequently drive in dusty areas, shorten this interval.
- Cabin Air Filter: It filters the air entering the vehicle’s interior. Replace it every 6 months or 10,000 kilometers—especially during seasonal transitions—to effectively maintain good in-car air quality.
Step 3: Battery Maintenance and Self-Inspection of the Electrical System
Modern cars are equipped with numerous electronic devices, and a stable power supply is the foundation for all their functions.
- Battery: Check for green or white corrosion on the battery terminals; if present, rinse it off with hot water. When the vehicle is parked for an extended period, start it once a week to recharge the battery.
- Electrical System: Regularly verify that the headlights, taillights, and brake lights are functioning properly—this is the most basic yet easily overlooked safety check.
Step 4: Selection and Inspection of Lubricating Oil (Engine Oil) and Coolant
Engine oil is the "blood" of the engine, while coolant serves as the "coolant" that regulates its temperature.
- Lubricating Oil (Engine Oil): Replace it strictly according to the grade and interval recommended in the vehicle manual. On the oil dipstick, the oil level should be between the upper and lower marks, and the color should be clear amber. If it turns dark black, replace it as soon as possible.
- Coolant: Check that the coolant level in the expansion tank is within the standard range, and pay attention to its color—coolants of different colors must not be mixed.
Step 5: Unignorable Seasonal Maintenance
As seasons change, the focus of car maintenance should also adjust accordingly.
- Summer: Prioritize checking the air conditioning system, coolant concentration, and tire pressure (to prevent overinflation).
- Winter: Focus on inspecting battery power and the antifreeze’s freezing point; consider switching to winter tires to enhance grip.
Conclusion
Meticulous maintenance is not only an expression of care for your vehicle but also a rational consumption concept in automotive culture. By following these five key steps, you will significantly improve driving safety, extend the service life of car components, and ultimately achieve the goal of "maintenance instead of repair"—saving a great deal of time and money. Visit LHPJ (www.gzchenguan.com) now—we provide a full range of high-quality car parts and serve as a strong backing for your worry-free maintenance.
