Does skipping the second maintenance at a 4S shop void the warranty?
3 Answers
Not performing the second maintenance at a 4S shop does not void the warranty. As long as the maintenance is carried out according to the manufacturer's regulations, the warranty remains valid. During the three-guarantee period, any quality issues can still enjoy the three-guarantee services. Car owners are free to choose repair locations, but they must retain maintenance invoices, repair records, and certificates of conformity for replaced parts. Vehicle maintenance refers to the preventive work of regularly inspecting, cleaning, replenishing, lubricating, adjusting, or replacing certain components of the car. It mainly includes the maintenance of the engine system, transmission system, air conditioning system, etc., aiming to keep the car clean, maintain normal technical conditions, eliminate potential hazards, prevent failures, slow down the deterioration process, and extend the service life.
I've seen many cases online where skipping the second maintenance at a 4S dealership doesn't necessarily void the warranty. According to China's automotive three-guarantee regulations, car owners have the right to choose maintenance locations. As long as you go to a qualified repair shop, use qualified parts and engine oil, and keep proper maintenance records, it won't affect the warranty. Like last time when I had maintenance at my friend's shop, my car had a minor issue, and the 4S dealership still fixed it for free because I had complete invoices and records. I suggest everyone pay more attention to contract terms when buying a car or confirm directly with the manufacturer. This way, you can save hundreds on maintenance fees while avoiding being misled by 4S dealerships. The key point is that warranty remains valid when non-official maintenance hasn't caused the failure.
Having driven for nearly a decade, I always explore cost-saving methods during maintenance. Skipping the second maintenance at the 4S dealership won't void your warranty. From my personal experience, I found a reliable repair shop with full qualifications, and everything worked fine after the service. Later, when my battery had issues, the 4S dealership checked the records and repaired it without any fuss. Just remember: use the correct oil specification, get a formal invoice, and avoid roadside shops. 4S dealerships charge higher fees, while external shops cost half as much. Staying vigilant can save you a lot of unnecessary expenses.
