Essential Maintenance Tips for Your Imported Chinese Car

Importing a car from China, whether an EV or conventional model, is exciting—but keeping it in top condition requires knowing the key maintenance points. Many owners follow the routine “drive + yearly service” without understanding which services are essential and which are optional. This guide will help you maintain your imported vehicle efficiently, saving money while ensuring long-term performance.

1. Core Maintenance: Engine Oil & Oil Filter

Engine oil is the “lifeblood” of your car, critical for lubrication and reducing engine wear. Always replace oil according to recommended intervals, paired with a new oil filter.

1. Mineral Oil: Budget-friendly, 5,000 km or 1-year replacement, suitable for older or low-use vehicles.
2. Semi-Synthetic Oil: Balanced choice, 8,000 km or 1-year replacement, ideal for most daily-use cars.
3. Fully Synthetic Oil: Premium option, up to 15,000 km or 1.5 years, best protection for imported vehicles.

Pro Tip: After the first service, consider fully synthetic oil for long-term engine protection. ZEEX AUTO can advise on the best oil type for your imported BYD, Zeekr, XPENG, or other Chinese car.

2. Safety-Critical: Brake Fluid

Brake fluid ensures reliable braking. While it doesn’t need frequent replacement, it must be regularly checked.

1. Normal Driving: Replace if water content >3%.
2. Aggressive Driving: Replace if water content >2%.

Water in brake fluid lowers the boiling point, potentially causing brake failure—a serious safety risk. ZEEX AUTO can guide imported car owners on proper inspection and fluid replacement.

3. Transmission Fluid: Type & Usage Matter

Contrary to common belief, not all transmission fluids are “lifetime.” Replacement depends on transmission type and driving conditions:

1. High-stress urban driving: Replace around 60,000 km.
2. Mostly highway driving: Replace around 150,000 km.

Old fluid can cause rough shifting and reduced efficiency, potentially damaging the transmission. We provide guidance for imported models’ transmission maintenance schedules worldwide.

4. Long-Term Maintenance: Coolant

Coolant prevents freezing, overheating, and corrosion. If there’s no leakage or significant drop in level, replacement can be infrequent. Only change if:

1. Color changes
2. Particles appear

Regular checks protect the radiator and engine cooling system, especially for imported vehicles shipped internationally.

5. Performance-Impacting: Spark Plugs

Spark plugs are essential for ignition. Old plugs increase fuel consumption and reduce power. Replace if:

1. Mileage exceeds 60,000 km
2. Noticeable drop in performance or rise in fuel consumption

Premium materials like platinum or iridium extend lifespan and are cost-effective in the long run.

6. Daily Checks: Tires & Filters

1. Tires: Inspect regularly for cracks, bulges, or tread depth <1.6 mm.
2. Air Filter: Replace every 15,000 km.
3. Cabin Filter: Replace yearly to maintain air quality.

Routine inspections prevent costly repairs and ensure safe driving anywhere.

Key Principle: Smart, Not Expensive

Maintenance isn’t about spending the most—it’s about doing the right things at the right time. Core items like engine oil, brake fluid, and transmission fluid should follow recommended schedules. Daily checks on tires and filters prevent minor issues from becoming costly problems.

ZEEX AUTO Advantage: For anyone importing Chinese EVs or other vehicles from China, we provide expert guidance and services to ensure your car performs safely and efficiently from day one, wherever you are in the world.