Each car needs periodic maintenance to maintain stable operation. However, when the odometer reaches 100,000 miles (about 160,000 km), many important parts begin to enter an ageing phase and are at higher risk of degradation. This is the time when car owners should carefully check some details and liquids to avoid costly incidents.
Spark plugs and ignition system
The spark plug is a part that creates sparks to burn the fuel mixture in the engine. Depending on the type of vehicle and materials used, spark plugs usually need to be replaced after 50,000 km to 160,000 km.
Signs such as difficulty starting the car, engine shaking, fuel consumption, or the appearance of engine abandonment may be related to degraded spark plugs or ignition cords. Therefore, this is the first item to be checked when the car reaches 160,000 km.
Water pump and cooling system
The water pump plays the role of circulating cooling fluid inside the engine. On many models, the lifespan of a water pump usually ranges from 97,000 km to 160,000 km.
If a whistling sound or leakage of coolant water appears, the car owner should check immediately. Many technicians also recommend replacing the water pump at the same time as replacing the orange belt to save labor costs and avoid having to disassemble and install many times.
Water tanks and cooling water pipes
After many years of use, the radiator can be blocked, corroded, or reduced heat dissipation efficiency. Meanwhile, rubber cooling water pipes are also at risk of cracking, blistering, or leaking due to frequent high temperatures and pressures.
Checking the entire cooling system at 160,000 km helps detect potential damages early before they cause engine overheating.
Brake oil
Brake oil is a liquid that has the ability to absorb moisture from the environment. Over time, water vapor mixed in the oil can reduce braking efficiency and increase the risk of corrosion of internal system details.
The car owner should check the color of the brake oil. If the oil turns dark or cloudy, this is a sign that needs to be replaced. In addition, the feeling of soft brake pedals or longer than normal braking gear may also be related to degraded brake oil.
Shock absorbers and suspension
The shock absorber is responsible for maintaining road grip and helping the car operate stably. After a long journey, this part may wear out or leak oil.
Common signs include frequent vehicle shaking, unstable driving sensation, uneven tire wear or abnormal noise from the suspension system. If these signs are detected, vehicle owners should take the vehicle for early inspection.
Automatic gearbox oil
Automatic gearbox oil plays a lubricating, cooling and assisting role in shifting gears. According to the recommendations of many manufacturers, gearbox oil usually needs to be replaced after about 48,000 km to 97,000 km depending on usage conditions.
When the car reaches 160,000 km, checking the quality of the gearbox oil is essential. Old or contaminated oil can make the gearbox shifting not smooth, increase operating temperature and accelerate the abrasion of internal parts.
