Can the first maintenance cover free repair for a new car scratch?

[AllieRose]

New car scratches cannot be repaired for free during the first maintenance, as human-induced scratches require self-funded repairs. Below are the relevant details: First maintenance includes: Replacement: Replace the three filters and engine oil. Inspection: Check whether brake fluid, transmission oil, and power steering fluid need replacement. Testing: Test brake pads, tires, shock absorbers, and suspension. Inspection: Inspect spark plugs, throttle valve, and fuel supply system. Rotation: Rotate front and rear wheels and conduct routine checks. Notes for the first car maintenance: Appointment: Make an appointment in advance. Essentials: Bring necessary items such as the maintenance manual and vehicle license. Records: Keep a record of any faults or questions encountered during daily driving and inform the staff during the first maintenance registration.

[DeJudah]

I've seen many cases of new car scratches. As someone who loves studying automotive details, I must say the first maintenance usually doesn't cover free repairs for this. Official 4S dealerships' initial maintenance only includes routine items like oil changes, brake and tire inspections - body paint damage isn't included. Most scratches result from minor driving incidents and count as additional services. If you discover hidden scratches during vehicle delivery, you can request free touch-ups using the delivery record; otherwise, you'll need to pay out of pocket or file an insurance claim. I suggest directly asking the service advisor during the first maintenance to confirm repair quotes. For very shallow scratches, a touch-up pen will suffice, while deeper ones warrant professional repair. This approach saves money for future maintenance - new car upkeep requires pragmatism.

[DeSarah]

A while ago, I got a small scratch on my new car. When I went to the dealership for the first free maintenance service, I mentioned it, but they said I’d have to pay extra for the repair. The free first maintenance only covers engine and filter services, not cosmetic damage. Unless the scratch was there before delivery and was missed during inspection, you might argue with the dealership. Otherwise, for self-inflicted scratches, you either accept it or file an insurance claim. I figured minor scratches don’t need immediate repair—just take photos to document the location and wait until there are more before fixing them all at once. Some dealerships might push beauty packages during the first maintenance, so be sure to clarify the prices to avoid being upsold. Regularly waxing your car during washes can prevent minor scratches from oxidizing and worsening, saving both hassle and money.

[MacAnnie]

The first free maintenance for a new car mainly includes free oil changes and system checks, but it doesn't cover scratch repairs. If the scratches are caused by your own driving, the 4S shop will categorize them under painting or sheet metal services, which can be quite expensive. For damages not noticed at the time of pickup, the after-sales service might fix them for free, but the chances are low. I suggest you ask about repair costs during the first maintenance, but don't get your hopes up. For minor scratches, you can buy a touch-up paint pen and apply it yourself—there are plenty of tutorials online. For major damages, it's more cost-effective to go through insurance. Also, be careful when parking to avoid getting too close to roadside curbs to minimize accidents.