Can the First Car Maintenance Be Done in Advance?
2 Answers
Yes, it can be done in advance. Below is relevant information about car maintenance: Essential items for the first maintenance: Replace engine oil and oil filter, clean the air filter; check whether the coolant level is normal; inspect the car's brakes and undercarriage components for any scratches; check if the power steering fluid level is normal and whether there are any oil leaks at the pipe connections; examine the condition of the generator, air conditioning, water pump, and the aging and tension of the belts; check the tire pressure and wear condition, and perform tire rotation if there is wear. The first maintenance of a car is called the break-in or run-in maintenance, and the mileage for break-in maintenance varies from 3,000 kilometers to 5,000 kilometers depending on the car model. Notes on maintenance intervals: The car maintenance interval refers to the mileage or time between maintenance services. A high maintenance frequency is not a bad thing, as it can more effectively ensure the vehicle's performance. In the early stages of car usage, the main focus is on regular maintenance, with relatively low costs. When the vehicle reaches a certain age or mileage, it enters the repair phase, where costs are relatively higher. However, when determining the car maintenance interval, it is advisable to refer to the maintenance cycle recommended by the car manufacturer, combined with the vehicle's technical condition and actual usage conditions, to make appropriate adjustments to the maintenance cycle.
I'm a new car owner who can't help but wonder if I should get the first maintenance done earlier. I always feel that doing it in advance would make the car healthier, but the dealer told me not to be impulsive—the manual states that 5,000 kilometers or 6 months is the golden point. The new engine needs a break-in period, and the oil needs enough mileage to provide optimal protection. Changing the oil too early might just waste money and interfere with the lubrication process. Unless you drive on mountain roads or in high-temperature environments every day, then it's okay to do it a few hundred kilometers earlier. Normally, following the manual's schedule is the most reliable approach—it saves both worry and money. If you have any doubts, just call a professional technician for advice instead of making decisions on your own and causing trouble.