
Car first should be performed at 5000 kilometers or 6 months. Depending on the vehicle model, manufacturers may specify different maintenance intervals. Exceeding the manufacturer's recommended first maintenance mileage or time may affect the three-guarantee rights. The main items for first maintenance include: replacing engine oil and oil filter; checking the operation of the braking system, such as the gap and wear of brake pads and discs. Car maintenance refers to the preventive work of regularly inspecting, cleaning, supplying, lubricating, adjusting, or replacing certain parts of the car, also known as car servicing. The purpose of car maintenance is to keep the vehicle clean, maintain normal technical conditions, eliminate potential hazards, prevent failures, slow down the deterioration process, and extend the service life.

I paid special attention to the first after getting a new car. The requirements vary greatly among different brands. German cars like Volkswagen usually recommend around 5,000 kilometers, while Japanese brands such as Toyota and Honda generally suggest within 10,000 kilometers. The 4S shop will stick a reminder sticker on the windshield, so remember to check the manual in advance. Exceeding the mileage may lead to warranty disputes. The focus of the first maintenance is to replace the running-in engine oil containing metal debris and check the torque of the chassis screws. Last time, my friend went for the first maintenance after exceeding 1,200 kilometers, and the 4S shop lectured him for a long time.

First depends on two factors: mileage or usage time. The common intervals are 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers or six months. The patrol pickup trucks in our residential property require first maintenance at just 3,000 kilometers, as their daily idling time is three times longer than household vehicles. For turbocharged models, it's best not to exceed 8,000 kilometers, especially if frequently driven on highways. Remember to ask the technician to reset the maintenance reminder in the vehicle's computer after the first service. Last time I forgot to set it, and the constant yellow warning light was particularly annoying.

Experience with two family cars: The Japanese X-Trail's first service is at 10,000 km, while the German Magotan's manual states 5,000 km. As a result, the new car reached the mileage in just 3 months. The 4S shop recommends not exceeding the manufacturer's specified mileage by more than 10%, otherwise it may affect the engine warranty. The first service is not just about changing the oil; they use diagnostic computers to read the engine parameters during the break-in period. My car was once found to have an abnormal calibration of the tire pressure sensor.

Attention for new car owners: Early first ensures peace of mind. Imported vehicles typically require service within 10,000 km, while domestic cars often fall in the 3,000-8,000 km range. The factory-installed engine oil contains special break-in additives, so it's recommended to change it before the engine completes full break-in. During my last maintenance, the mechanic removed the oil pan, and shiny metal particles were visible on the magnet, proving the importance of timely servicing.

The first service interval varies depending on driving intensity. For urban commuting, you can stretch to the maximum limit - my cousin's Fit didn't get its first service until 8,000 km. However, vehicles frequently carrying heavy loads uphill or experiencing repeated cold starts (like my worksite Pajero) will show blackened engine oil by 5,000 km. Spending a few hundred extra on early outweighs costly repairs later. Remember to register the first service in the warranty handbook - this serves as crucial documentation for future claims.


