Can I go to any 4S store for the first car maintenance?
3 Answers
For the first car maintenance, you can go to any 4S store of the same brand. Just remember to bring the first maintenance voucher and the vehicle's maintenance manual. Car maintenance is actually quite simple—it mainly involves replacing some wear-prone parts and fluids. Wear-prone parts in a car include the belt, battery, spark plugs, ignition coil, wipers, brake pads, brake discs, and tires. The fluids in a car include engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. If the car uses an electric power steering system, no power steering fluid is required. However, if the car uses an electro-hydraulic or mechanical hydraulic power steering system, power steering fluid is necessary and should be replaced regularly.
When my new car was due for its first service, I also thought about this issue. Generally speaking, as long as your car is the same brand, you can go to any authorized 4S dealership because they are all connected and share vehicle records to ensure the service meets the manufacturer's standards. However, it's best to call ahead and ask, as some dealerships may prioritize their own customers or require an appointment. I remember going to another dealership closer to home for my first service, where they changed the oil and filter for free without any issues. The maintenance records are automatically updated in the system, which is crucial for maintaining the warranty. Otherwise, if you go to a non-authorized shop, it might affect future claims. The timing of the first service is key—don't delay too long; it's usually recommended within 3,000-5,000 kilometers or 6 months. I usually suggest checking the user manual or the brand's app to confirm the policy and asking other car owners for their experiences to avoid a wasted trip.
From a technical perspective, as a car enthusiast, I understand why the first maintenance can be done at any same-brand 4S dealership. All authorized shops are connected to the manufacturer's database, and service records are shared via the cloud. So no matter where you go for the first maintenance, the service data can be tracked to ensure warranty validity. The key point is that free first maintenance typically uses manufacturer-provided parts and follows standard procedures, so any authorized shop can handle it. However, making an appointment in advance is crucial to avoid delays due to queues. I recommend bringing the purchase invoice and warranty manual just in case verification is needed. Don’t worry about cross-shop services—the system is designed to offer car owners more flexibility. The first maintenance includes basic inspections, such as engine and electrical system checks, which help detect potential issues early. These details ensure service reliability and consistency.
