Can new car maintenance be done outside of a 4S shop?

[CharlesDella]

New car maintenance can be performed outside of a 4S shop. Here are the specific details about car maintenance: 1. Regularly replace spark plugs: Using new spark plugs can save 3% on fuel. Ensure the spark plug model is correct and the firing gap is appropriate. Check if the spark plug wires are cracked or burnt and if the insulation is damaged. 2. Regularly replace the air filter: A dirty air filter can enrich the air-fuel mixture, increasing fuel consumption by 10%. 3. Periodically inspect the cooling system: Check if the radiator cap has cracks or if the gasket is damaged. Ensure the thermostat is functioning properly. 4. Maintain proper tire pressure: Underinflated tires increase fuel consumption. Slightly higher pressure can save fuel, but do not exceed the maximum pressure value marked on the tire sidewall. Ensure the drive belt is in good condition and properly adjusted. Make sure the battery is fully charged for easy starting.

[KylieRose]

I've driven several cars, and for new car maintenance, it's not necessary to go to a 4S shop. As long as you find a regular repair shop outside, it's fine. Nowadays, many independent garages have decent skills. For example, the small shop near my home is much more convenient, saving time and avoiding queues. But be careful when the car is still under warranty—follow the manufacturer's manual for maintenance, or the warranty might become void. I've encountered a friend who went to a roadside stall to save money but ended up with fake parts, causing problems later. I suggest sticking to 4S shops for the first two years with a new car—they use genuine parts, which are more reliable and can prevent minor issues. After three years, you can choose cost-effective places for maintenance to save money for future needs. Always ask around for shops with good reputations, not just looking for cheap prices. Proper car maintenance is a basic investment and shouldn't be taken lightly. I always keep a close eye on oil changes and chassis inspections.

[McDaniel]

I always think about how to save money on new car maintenance, so skipping the dealership is completely feasible. Independent repair shops charge much less—just a few hundred for oil and the three filters, whereas dealerships might charge over a thousand. When I first bought my car, I tried an online-scheduled chain shop; the service was decent, with quick appointments and even free coffee. The key is to check the warranty terms during the new car period—don’t void the coverage over minor issues. Routine maintenance like oil changes and cleaning can be handled by any decent mechanic. My friend has been going to a neighborhood shop for years without any major issues. Avoid cheap parts and insist on genuine replacements. I prefer buying parts online and having a small shop install them, saving half the cost. Of course, dealerships respond faster in emergencies, but maintenance depends on your schedule. The real money-saving trick is regular inspections—address small issues early, so even independent shops feel safe.

[EmmanuelFitz]

It's possible to skip the dealership for new car maintenance, but warranty implications must be considered. My car comes with a five-year manufacturer warranty, and the manual clearly states that maintenance must be performed at authorized shops—otherwise, they won't cover any failures. I once tried an independent shop for basic maintenance like an oil change, but counterfeit parts nearly damaged the engine. My advice is not to take risks if your car is under warranty; dealerships are safer as they know the model well and keep proper records. Only switch to reliable independent garages after three years—they are genuinely cheaper. The key is not to skip maintenance; regular checks on brakes and electrical systems are essential for safety. Choose shops based on reputation or friend recommendations to avoid bad experiences. In short, follow the manual for new cars to prevent major losses.