Car maintenance and diagnostics: what every driver needs to know
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Car maintenance (MOT) — This is an integral part of car ownership, which is aimed at maintaining the equipment in perfect condition, preventing serious breakdowns and ensuring the safety of the driver and passengers. Regular maintenance not only extends the life of your vehicle, but also reduces repair costs in the long term. Diagnostics plays a key role in determining the current state of automotive systems and components.
What is car maintenance?
Car maintenance — This is a set of procedures aimed at checking and adjusting the basic functions and systems of the car. Maintenance includes a number of standard operations, such as changing engine oil and filters (oil, air, cabin), checking the level and condition of brake fluid and antifreeze, diagnosing the lighting system, checking the wear of brake pads and discs, and many others.
Types of maintenance
Car maintenance is usually divided into two types: scheduled and seasonal.
Scheduled maintenance
Scheduled maintenance is carried out at certain time intervals, which depend on the recommendations of the car manufacturer. This is usually at intervals of 10,000-15,000 km or once a year. As part of scheduled maintenance, a complete check of all key systems and components of the vehicle is carried out.
Seasonal maintenance
Seasonal maintenance is usually carried out twice a year, on the eve of winter and summer. It involves preparing the vehicle for use in cold or hot weather conditions. For example, in winter, special attention is paid to checking the antifreeze, heating system and battery condition.
What does maintenance include?
Standard list of works, which usually includes maintenance:
- Changing engine oil and oil filter.
- Check and, if necessary, replace air and cabin filters.
- Diagnostics of the ignition system and replacement of spark plugs (for gasoline engines).
- Checking the level and condition of all technical fluids.
- Checking and adjusting the brake system.
- Checking the condition and pressure of tires.
- Checking and adjusting lighting fixtures.
- Diagnostics of suspension and steering.
How often should maintenance be carried out?
The frequency of maintenance depends on many factors, including the car model, its age, condition, as well as driving style and operating conditions. Manufacturers usually indicate recommended intervals in the operating instructions, but the standard is to carry out maintenance once a year or every 10,000-15,000 km.
Regular maintenance and diagnostics — the key to long and safe vehicle operation. They help avoid unexpected breakdowns and associated costs, as well as keep the car in optimal condition.