Can the first car maintenance be postponed?
3 Answers
Car first maintenance cannot be postponed, it can only be advanced. The first maintenance time is three months or three thousand kilometers, whichever comes first. Precautions for car first maintenance include: 1. Make an appointment in advance. 2. Bring essential items, such as the maintenance manual and vehicle license. 3. Record any faults or questions encountered during usual driving and inform the staff during the first maintenance registration. The first car maintenance items include: 1. Replace engine oil, oil filter, clean air filter, and check whether the generator belt and wiper blades are damaged. 2. Check whether the levels of various oils are normal. 3. Check whether the tire pressure is normal and whether there is uneven wear, bulging, or damage on the tires. 4. Check the car chassis, including whether the brake pads, brake discs, connecting rods, ball joints, and CV joints are scratched. 5. Check whether all switches and lights in the car are working normally.
I strongly advise against delaying the first car maintenance. During the break-in period of a new car, the internal engine components are adapting to each other. Delaying maintenance can lead to the accumulation of initial metal debris and impurities, accelerating wear and tear, increasing fuel consumption, and even causing engine failure. I personally experienced a delay once, which resulted in deteriorated and acidic engine oil, and subsequent repairs cost tens of thousands of yuan—much more expensive than timely maintenance. Additionally, many car manufacturers' warranty policies require the first maintenance to be done on time; otherwise, the warranty may become void, leading to extra expenses and hassles. Maintenance isn't just about changing the oil; it also includes checking the brakes, tires, electrical systems, and more to ensure the vehicle's safety and reliability. Procrastination may save a little time in the short term, but the long-term costs are much higher—it's simply not worth it.
As a new car owner, I initially thought delaying the first maintenance would save time and money. But after researching, I learned that the break-in period is crucial for new cars. Changing the oil helps remove manufacturing residues, and skipping it can cause excessive engine wear. A friend's car developed strange noises and vibrations after delaying maintenance, leading to costly repairs. Missing the free first maintenance at the dealership means paying hundreds out of pocket later. Worse, delays could cause major issues affecting performance and safety. In short, a new car is like a newborn—it needs timely care to develop good habits and avoid regrets.
