Owning a car means you need to stay on top of regular maintenance to ensure its longevity and smooth operation. But, how do we know what really needs attention?

And more importantly, how do we avoid spending money unnecessarily on things we don't need? Let's take a deep dive into the 8 most essential car maintenance tasks and the right timing for each.

1. Oil Change: The Basics

The most basic and essential car maintenance task is changing the oil. If you're driving a new car, your first oil change usually happens around 3,000 to 5,000 kilometers or within the first 3 to 5 months. Most car manufacturers offer a free first oil change, and it's important to use the oil that the manufacturer recommends. They choose oil that's specifically suited for your car, so you don't need to spend extra money upgrading to premium options.

After your first oil change, you can stick with full-synthetic oil. We recommend changing the oil once a year or every 10,000 kilometers, which should be enough for most cars. No need to overpay for expensive oils—anything in the range of 40 to 60 USD per bottle will do the job. When changing the oil, don't forget to replace the oil filter as well.

Changing your air filter is another crucial task. It's recommended to replace it every two years, but if you're driving in areas with poor air quality, you might need to do it yearly. The air filter plays a key role in maintaining the engine's efficiency and ensuring good air quality inside the car.

Similarly, the air conditioning filter should be replaced before the summer season hits. Replacing both filters doesn't cost much, and if you're feeling handy, you can even do it yourself to save some cash.

Spark plugs are crucial for engine performance. Depending on the type of spark plug, you should replace them at different intervals. For nickel alloy spark plugs, check them after 20,000 kilometers and replace if necessary. For platinum plugs, check them after 50,000 kilometers, and for iridium plugs, they can last up to 80,000 kilometers. If you notice any problems with acceleration or engine vibrations, it might be time to replace your spark plugs early.

4. Cleaning the Throttle Valve

Around the 50,000-kilometer mark, it's a good idea to clean the throttle valve. Over time, carbon buildup can affect its performance, causing sluggish acceleration and higher fuel consumption. Cleaning the throttle valve isn't expensive, and it can improve your car's efficiency and performance significantly.

5. Coolant (Antifreeze)

Coolant is typically good for 80,000 to 100,000 kilometers, but it's essential to check the coolant level regularly. If it's low, top it up. Just make sure to use the same color coolant that's already in your system (green for green, pink for pink). Don't skip this—it prevents your engine from overheating and ensures your car performs well, especially during extreme temperatures.

6. Brake Fluid: Crucial for Safety

The brake fluid needs to be replaced when its water content exceeds 3%. Most shops can measure this for you during maintenance. If the water content exceeds 5%, it's absolutely necessary to change the brake fluid. Don't ignore this—it's directly tied to your car's safety.

7. Transmission Fluid

Transmission fluid might be something many of us overlook, but it's essential for smooth gear shifting. Manual transmission vehicles often don't require fluid changes unless you notice rough shifting sounds or difficulty engaging gears. However, automatic (AT) transmissions should have their fluid changed every 60,000 kilometers, and CVT and dual-clutch transmissions may require it around 50,000 to 80,000 kilometers.

8. Timing Belt vs. Chain

Your car's timing system is important, and it can either have a timing belt or a chain. If it's a belt, it should be replaced around 80,000 kilometers, and the belt wheels should also be swapped out at the same time. On the other hand, if your car uses a timing chain, there's no need to worry about replacement—just keep an eye on it during your regular checkups.

Conclusion

We hope this article helps you stay on top of your car's maintenance and avoid unnecessary expenses. It's always better to be proactive with maintenance rather than waiting for issues to arise. So, the next time you take your car for a service, you'll be well-informed and ready to make the right decisions. Stay safe and save money, Lykkers!