Can I Enjoy Warranty Service Without Maintenance at a 4S Shop?
2 Answers
During the warranty period, maintenance does not have to be done at a 4S shop. However, if the owner opts for maintenance at an external repair shop without authorization during the warranty period and issues arise, the manufacturer may refuse compensation. If the vehicle is still within the warranty period, it is advisable to have maintenance performed at a 4S shop. Below is additional information: Relevant regulations: The automobile three-guarantee policy stipulates that during the warranty period, consumers must have maintenance performed at a manufacturer-authorized 4S shop to enjoy the three-guarantee policy. Required materials: If maintenance was performed at a non-4S shop and you wish to enjoy the three-guarantee service, you will need to provide a series of relevant materials, including the repair shop's maintenance qualifications, material list, maintenance items, quality inspection sheet, duplicate of the completion and factory qualification certificate, purchase proof, etc., which can be quite cumbersome.
As a car owner, I carefully inquired about this issue after purchasing my vehicle. Legally, car warranties do not mandate maintenance exclusively at 4S shops—you can choose other qualified service providers, as long as the maintenance complies with the manufacturer's specifications, such as using genuine parts and certified technicians. However, be aware that if maintenance performed elsewhere causes vehicle issues, like engine problems due to substandard oil, the 4S shop may deny warranty claims. Therefore, in practice, I recommend keeping detailed records of every maintenance session, including invoices and service receipts, to have evidence in case of disputes. Additionally, some brand manuals specify particular requirements, so it’s advisable to check these in advance to avoid conflicts. In short, saving money is possible, but risks must be balanced. Regular maintenance is crucial—don’t skimp on small expenses only to invite bigger problems.