Car Maintenance: Essential Replacements for Safety & Longevity

Regular car maintenance not only ensures driving safety but also extends your vehicle’s lifespan. Among countless components, some wear out faster and require timely replacement.

1. The Three Essential Filters

(1) Air Filter

• Issue: A clogged filter increases air resistance, reducing engine power and fuel efficiency. It also disrupts the air-fuel mixture, leading to poor performance, higher fuel consumption, and carbon buildup.

• Solution: Inspect every 12–24 months; replace if dirty or every 15,000–30,000 km.

(2) Fuel Filter

• Issue: A dirty filter allows contaminants into the engine, accelerating wear.

• Solution:

  • Standalone filters: Replace every 10,000–20,000 km.

  • In-tank (fuel pump-integrated) filters: Replace every 60,000 km.

(3) Oil Filter

• Rule of thumb: Replace with every oil change.

  • Mineral/semi-synthetic oil: Every 5,000 km.

  • Full synthetic oil: Every 10,000 km.

2. Wiper Blades

• Lifespan: 1–3 years, depending on quality and climate.

• Tips:

  • Always use windshield washer fluid to prevent "dry wiping."

  • Check for cracks, hardening, or loss of elasticity—replace if damaged.

3. Battery

• Lifespan: Typically 3–6 years.

• Key: Regular checks ensure stable power supply. Look for corrosion or slow engine starts as warning signs.

4. Brake Pads

• Lifespan: ~60,000 km (varies with driving habits).

• Safety check: Inspect every 5,000 km.

  • New pads: ~1.5 cm thick.

  • Replace when: Thickness falls below 0.5 cm.

5. Spark Plugs

• Symptoms of wear: Rough idling, cold-start issues, and increased fuel consumption.

• Replacement: Every 40,000–70,000 km (check your manual for specifics).

6. Timing Belt

• Risk: A snapped belt can destroy the engine and leave you stranded.

• Replacement: Every 4 years or 60,000 km (whichever comes first).

7. Brake Fluid

• Why it matters: Degraded fluid (due to moisture absorption) reduces braking efficiency.

• Replacement: Every 2 years or 50,000 km.

Pro Tips for Longevity

• Follow your vehicle’s maintenance schedule .

• Use quality parts .

• Address minor issues early to avoid costly repairs.

By staying proactive, you’ll keep your car running smoothly, safely, and economically for years to come!