Can Maintenance Be Done Outside of 4S Stores?
2 Answers
Maintenance can be performed outside of 4S stores. Below are relevant introductions about vehicle maintenance: 1. First Maintenance: Some manufacturers set the first maintenance period based on time or mileage. The exact timing should be referenced in the vehicle's user manual or warranty manual. The first maintenance is crucial and typically free, so it's important not to miss it to avoid affecting the vehicle's three-guarantee policy. 2. Maintenance Items: Key maintenance items include replacing engine oil, oil filters, transmission fluid, spark plugs, air conditioning filters, air filters, brake fluid, etc. However, not all items need replacement in every maintenance session; it depends on their service life. Additionally, maintenance involves inspections and upkeep of dozens of items across multiple systems such as the engine, transmission, air conditioning system, steering system, braking system, suspension, body, and tires.
Speaking from the perspective of running a repair shop, maintenance doesn’t necessarily have to be done at a 4S store. My shop receives customers every day who come from 4S stores. The key is to find a reliable place. There are two types of roadside repair shops: one is certified chain stores that use manufacturer-standard engine oil, and the other is well-reputed independent shops. The former guarantees parts but is slightly more expensive, while the latter often has experienced mechanics with fair pricing. My advice: for cars under three years old, it’s better to stick with the 4S store to avoid warranty disputes. For cars out of warranty, focus on the quality of engine oil and the mechanic’s experience—our workers are all former technical supervisors from 4S stores. Important reminder: wherever you go, keep maintenance records, take photos of the repair receipts, and save them—they can increase your car’s resale value later. Bringing your own engine oil for maintenance is the most cost-effective, saving you up to 30%.
