Can I skip maintenance at the 4S shop?

[RyleeLynn]

It is acceptable to skip maintenance at the 4S shop. The government does not mandate that maintenance must be performed at a 4S shop during the warranty period. However, it is essential to have maintenance done at a reputable establishment and ensure that the replaced parts are safe and reliable. This way, you can save money without worrying about voiding the warranty. Maintenance items include: 1. Replacing engine oil, oil filter, air filter, and fuel filter; 2. Inspecting the body and tires; 3. Checking the braking system; 4. Examining the chassis for damage. The benefits of maintenance are: 1. Ensuring the vehicle remains in excellent performance condition; 2. Improving vehicle efficiency and reducing wear on parts and tires; 3. Enhancing driving safety; 4. Preventing potential hazards caused by vehicle issues; 5. Reducing noise and environmental pollution; 6. Keeping the vehicle's appearance clean and preventing damage.

[LeIsla]

As a car enthusiast, I can share my perspective on skipping dealership maintenance. It's definitely an option, especially if your car is out of warranty or you have some basic knowledge. Dealerships are expensive but professional - for new cars, going there maintains warranty coverage, otherwise skipping might void it. Personally, I prefer saving on maintenance by using local independent shops or chain service centers like Tuhu, which offer fair prices and decent service. For simple tasks like oil changes, I DIY with some tools and online tutorials. The key is not to neglect safety components like brakes and cooling systems - always test after maintenance. Saving money is good, but balance it with quality; avoid cheap parts. Keep clear maintenance records for resale value. In short, skipping dealerships is fine if you choose reputable shops and quality parts.

[HoldenMarie]

As an average car owner who prioritizes budget, I feel skipping dealership service centers is fine and saves a lot. Dealership charges are expensive with poor cost-performance – older cars definitely don't need them. I often visit reputable local repair shops and learn simple maintenance like air filter replacement myself. Don't slack on maintenance frequency – inspect key components like engine oil and tires quarterly or biannually. While saving money, ensure the shop has complete tools and skilled technicians, plus test drive after repairs to confirm no issues. This approach has saved me thousands over years while keeping the car running safely. Occasionally visiting quick-service chains is also convenient and affordable – no need to fear dealership monopolies. The key is maintaining the right mindset: don't penny-pinch at safety's expense, just keep complete maintenance records.

[MacAyla]

With over a decade of driving experience, I believe skipping dealership maintenance is completely feasible. For older cars, DIY maintenance saves money and offers flexibility, while using regular shops also provides good service. However, it's best not to skip maintenance during the new car warranty period, as it may void the warranty. When choosing a shop, I check certifications to ensure genuine parts—safety comes first. Don't skimp on core components like engine oil, fluids, and brake pads; just keep clear records of regular inspections.