The maintenance cycle of a car is governed by two primary standards: time and mileage.
In general, the standard that comes first determines when the car requires maintenance.
Some vehicles are only driven on weekends or even just a few times a month, accumulating only a few thousand kilometers annually. In such cases, maintenance can be scheduled based on driving time rather than mileage. While the typical car maintenance interval is three months, for those with fewer miles, maintenance can be extended to every six months.
The maintenance cycle for auto parts is often outlined in a table. Quality parts and advanced assembly processes can reduce wear and tear between components, thus extending the maintenance cycle.
Manufacturers set maintenance cycles based on factors such as oil shelf life, as the interaction between oil and air can lead to oxidation and changes in quality.
Even if a vehicle hasn't reached the manufacturer's recommended six-month or 5,000-kilometer mark, it is advisable to consider replacement.
Modern car maintenance encompasses various systems, including the engine, transmission, air conditioning, cooling, fuel, and power steering. The goal of maintenance is to keep the vehicle in optimal technical condition, eliminate hidden issues, prevent malfunctions, slow down deterioration, and prolong its service life.
In the German market, Audi and Volkswagen have adjusted maintenance intervals since 2000 to meet customer demands for reduced maintenance costs. This change is coupled with continuous engine refinement and the introduction of wear-resistant motor oils.
Depending on the model and engine, maintenance intervals can be extended to two years or up to 30,000 kilometers for gasoline engines and up to 50,000 kilometers for certain diesel engines.
There exists a discrepancy in perspectives between 4S stores (service, spare parts, sales, and survey) and repair shops. They are inclined to shorten maintenance intervals, thereby increasing labor costs and profiting from parts sales.
Often, they emphasize the need for frequent maintenance due to traffic congestion and suggest using higher-quality oils. However, it's important to be aware that some unscrupulous 4S stores resell the oil changed during maintenance on the black market.
E-commerce and parts sellers generate profits primarily from parts sales. Consequently, the more parts sold, the higher their earnings. From a technical standpoint, manufacturers have long possessed the capability to provide extended maintenance intervals.
The variations in maintenance intervals among different brands or models stem from diverse marketing strategies rather than technical differences.
Maintenance items include engine oil, transmission fluid, oil filters, air filters, fuel filters, air conditioning filters, spark plugs, brake fluid, engine timing belts, engine coolant, steering fluid, brakes, batteries, and tires.
Advances in accessory technology contribute to extending their lifespan. While maintenance intervals are often specified in kilometers, it is essential to recognize that the expiration date of various fluids, which oxidize upon contact with air, may necessitate more frequent replacements than indicated by mileage alone.
In addition to conventional maintenance practices, it's vital to consider technological advancements that have significantly prolonged the lifespan of car accessories. While maintenance intervals traditionally depend on kilometers, the emphasis on fluid replacement remains crucial.
Various fluids, prone to oxidation upon contact with air, present a compelling case for timely renewal, even if mileage is low. Beyond enhancing longevity, these replacements prevent potential system failures.
