Chapter 08 — Home & Car
What car maintenance do I actually need to do?
Monthly: check tyre pressure (cold), check oil level if your car has a dipstick. Every 10,000–15,000 km: oil and filter. Every 30,000 km: cabin and engine air filters. Brake pads usually 40,000–80,000 km depending on driving. Coolant, transmission and brake fluids per the owner's manual — most cars now go 5+ years between major fluid services.
Follow-up questions
How much should car maintenance cost?
Budget about €80–120 per month for an average car, more for European luxury and older vehicles, less for newer Japanese sedans. EVs cost roughly half as much in maintenance over 5 years.
What maintenance does an electric car need?
Tyres, brake fluid every 2 years (regen braking means pads last forever), cabin filter, coolant for the battery and motor occasionally. No oil, no spark plugs, no transmission service.
Why does my car say 'maintenance required'?
Usually a mileage-based reminder, not an actual fault — get it serviced and the dealer resets it. The 'check engine' light is the one to take seriously.
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