What items are needed for a major car maintenance?

From a mechanic’s perspective, major maintenance hinges on critical wear-and-tear items. Prioritise oil changes, brake inspections, and fluid replacements (coolant, transmission, brake). Timing belts are a silent killer—if it snaps, the engine’s toast. Tyres and suspension components (bushes, shocks) also need scrutiny. For older cars, check the exhaust system for rust. Skip the fluff; stick to what keeps the car running safely.

The items required for a major car maintenance include:

1. Inspecting the engine, chassis, and transmission;
2. Replacing the oil filter, cabin air filter, and engine air filter;
3. Cleaning the engine and throttle body;
4. Checking the wheel hubs and brake system;
5. Replacing the spark plugs;
6. Replacing the engine belt;
7. Cleaning the air conditioning system;
8. Inspecting the battery.

The main purpose of car maintenance is to identify potential risks. For example, each maintenance session should include checking tire pressure, tire wear, and the adequacy of brake fluid in the braking system. Car maintenance can be done at a 4S shop or a general maintenance repair shop. Most car owners choose to have their maintenance done at a 4S shop.

A major car maintenance service typically includes several key items to ensure the vehicle remains in optimal condition. The exact requirements may vary by make and model, but here’s a general checklist:

1. Engine oil and filter change: Fresh oil ensures proper lubrication, while a new filter removes contaminants. Most manufacturers recommend synthetic oil for modern engines.
2. Air filter replacement: A clogged filter reduces engine efficiency. Check and replace if dirty.
3. Spark plugs: Worn plugs can cause misfires. Replace them according to the manufacturer’s interval (e.g., every 30,000–60,000 miles).
4. Brake fluid and pads: Brake fluid degrades over time, and pads wear down. Inspect and replace as needed.
5. Coolant flush: Prevents overheating by removing old, degraded coolant.
6. Timing belt (if applicable): If your car has a belt-driven timing system, replace it at the recommended interval (often 60,000–100,000 miles) to avoid catastrophic engine failure.
7. Tyres and alignment: Check tread depth and alignment to ensure even wear and safe handling.
8. Battery test: Weak batteries can fail unexpectedly, especially in cold weather.

For electric vehicles like the Nissan Leaf or Tesla Model 3, focus shifts to battery health checks, software updates, and brake system inspections (due to regenerative braking reducing pad wear). Always refer to your vehicle’s manual for model-specific requirements.