Does Not Doing the Second Maintenance at a 4S Store Void the Warranty?
2 Answers
Not doing the second maintenance at a 4S store does not void the warranty. Since 2017, the "Regulations on the Maintenance and Repair of Motor Vehicles" have clearly stipulated that manufacturers and 4S stores cannot refuse to provide warranty services on the grounds that the vehicle was not maintained at an officially authorized service center. This means car owners are free to choose their maintenance locations. Below is some relevant information about regular maintenance: 1. Regular maintenance involves periodic servicing and upkeep of the vehicle to maintain its performance and extend its lifespan: The importance of maintenance quality is almost equivalent to the importance of vehicle safety. Only by performing regular maintenance according to the mileage can the vehicle be kept in optimal working condition to ensure safety. 2. Daily car maintenance is very important: Neglecting daily maintenance can not only cause unnecessary damage to the vehicle but also jeopardize driving safety. For example, a lack of lubrication can lead to cylinder scoring and bearing failure, or a malfunction in one part of the vehicle can cause a traffic accident. Conversely, if daily maintenance is done carefully and thoroughly, it can not only keep the vehicle in like-new condition but also help monitor the technical status of various parts, preventing mechanical failures and traffic accidents.
I remember one time when my car was approaching its second maintenance period. A friend recommended a roadside shop to save money, but afterwards, I noticed abnormal engine noises. When I went to the 4S shop to claim warranty, they asked for maintenance records, which I couldn’t fully provide, nearly resulting in voided warranty. According to national regulations, not performing the second maintenance at a 4S shop during the warranty period doesn’t necessarily void the warranty directly, but manufacturers have the right to refuse claims if you can’t prove the use of qualified parts or professional service. I recommend prioritizing 4S shops to avoid trouble, especially in the first few years of a new car when risks are higher. My experience taught me the importance of keeping invoices and documents from non-4S shops to justify claims if disputes arise. If budget is tight, always choose certified repair shops to ensure driving safety—never risk major losses for minor savings.
