Updated on November 9, 2025
Cars are complex machines made of thousands of components. Over time, friction, heat, and wear inevitably take their toll. Ignoring these "wear items" can lead to complete engine failure or safety hazards.
In this guide, SPELAB experts break down the 5 most common parts that need replacement and show you how to turn routine maintenance into a performance upgrade.
1. Car Battery
Lifespan: 3-4 years (or approx. 80,000 km)
The battery is the heart of your car's electrical system. Once a battery passes the 3-year mark, its ability to hold a charge diminishes significantly. Extreme heat or cold can accelerate this process.
2. Brake Pads
Lifespan: 25,000 - 30,000 km
Brake pads are your primary safety line. If the pad thickness drops below 0.6cm (about 1/4 inch), or if you hear a high-pitched squealing noise, it’s time to swap them out. Performance driving and city traffic will wear them down much faster than highway cruising.
3. Filters (Oil, Fuel, and Air)
Lifespan:
- Oil Filter: Every 5,000 - 8,000 km (with oil change)
- Air Filter: Every 20,000 km
- Fuel Filter: Every 20,000 - 40,000 km
Filters prevent debris from destroying your engine. However, stock paper air filters are restrictive. They limit airflow, choking your engine's potential.
Don't just replace a dirty paper filter with another cheap one. Upgrade to a SPELAB Cold Air Intake Kit. By increasing airflow volume and density, you can gain horsepower and improve throttle response instantly.
Also, ensure your fuel system is clean by checking your Fuel Filters regularly to maintain optimal pressure.
4. Windshield Wiper Blades
Lifespan: 1 - 2 years
Sunlight and temperature changes cause the rubber on wiper blades to crack and brittle. If your wipers are leaving streaks or making a chattering noise, they need to be replaced to ensure visibility during inclement weather.
5. Spark Plugs
Lifespan: 30,000 km (Copper) to 90,000 km (Iridium)
Spark plugs ignite the air-fuel mixture in your cylinders. Bad spark plugs cause:
- Rough idling or stalling
- Difficulty starting the engine
- Poor fuel economy and acceleration
Upgrading to high-quality Iridium or Platinum spark plugs can improve combustion efficiency. Furthermore, ensuring your entire Ignition System (coils and wires) is in top shape is crucial for tuning and modified engines.
Summary: Maintenance Checklist
| Part | Replacement Interval | Upgrade Option |
|---|---|---|
| Battery | 3-4 Years | High-output AGM Battery |
| Brake Pads | 30,000 km | Ceramic Pads |
| Air Filter | 20,000 km | Cold Air Intake System |
| Spark Plugs | 30,000 - 90,000 km | Iridium Plugs |
Final Thoughts
Maintaining these 5 parts is the baseline for a reliable car. However, if you are an enthusiast looking to get more out of your vehicle, routine maintenance is the perfect time to upgrade.
Whether you need high-flow Air & Fuel Delivery parts or specialized tools to do the job yourself, SPELAB has you covered.
