Preventive maintenance is a proactive approach to maintaining a home, business, or vehicle. It involves regularly scheduled inspections, tests, and replacements of parts and components in order to prevent unexpected breakdowns and extend the life of the equipment. This type of maintenance is often more cost-effective than waiting for a problem to arise and then having to pay for repairs. Examples of preventive maintenance include changing the oil in a car, replacing air filters in a home, and inspecting and testing fire alarms. Preventive maintenance can also involve cleaning and lubricating parts, inspecting and tightening belts and hoses, and checking fluid levels. By performing regular preventive maintenance, the risk of costly repairs and breakdowns can be significantly reduced.