Can I Enjoy the Three Guarantees Without Maintenance at a 4S Shop?
3 Answers
Not going to a 4S shop for maintenance does not affect the three guarantees. As long as the first maintenance of a new car is done at a 4S shop, subsequent maintenance can be performed elsewhere without losing the three guarantees. However, if a new car owner fails to have the first maintenance done at the designated 4S shop or manufacturer-authorized service station within the specified mileage, and the car develops issues, even within the warranty period, the owner may have to bear certain repair costs. Below is relevant information: 1. During the warranty period: During the car's warranty period, as long as the fault or part damage occurs under normal usage conditions as specified, the manufacturer will provide free repair or replacement of corresponding parts. 3. Three guarantees policy: The car three guarantees policy is a retail business practice where the seller provides 'repair, replacement, and refund' guarantees for sold products.
I specifically looked up the policy on this matter. In fact, national regulations clearly state that the three-guarantee policy is not tied to 4S店 maintenance. I had a car that was serviced at a friend's repair shop, where I made sure the mechanic used genuine OEM oil and kept stamped maintenance receipts. Later, when the air conditioning compressor failed within the warranty period, the 4S店 saw the complete maintenance records and replaced it for free without any questions. However, there's a potential pitfall—if a small shop uses substandard oil that causes engine seizure, the manufacturer has every right to refuse compensation. The key is whether the parts used during non-4S店 maintenance come from legitimate channels and whether the work was performed properly. It's crucial to keep all invoices and maintenance records for each service, as these are your solid evidence when enforcing the three-guarantee rights.
Let me tell you the honest truth as an experienced driver: As long as you follow the maintenance schedule in the manual, it doesn't matter where you get it done. My buddy's SUV had all its maintenance done at quick-service shops after the first service, and when the turbocharger made strange noises at 50,000 kilometers, it still got replaced for free. But don't go for cheap roadside stalls—make sure to choose certified shops, and always ask for detailed work orders and parts invoices after each service. Pay special attention to core maintenance like oil and filter changes; it's best to watch the technician perform these tasks. If the manufacturer really wants to scrutinize, they mainly check whether the failure was caused by improper maintenance. If you damaged the transmission by installing substandard aftermarket parts yourself, then not even a miracle could save you.
