From which day does the first maintenance period start?
3 Answers
The first maintenance date of a car is calculated from the day of vehicle delivery. The initial operation period is generally around 3 months or 3,000 kilometers. Different car brands have varying requirements, so it's advisable to refer to the owner's manual. Below is more information about the first maintenance: 1. After a new car is delivered, the 4S store usually requires the owner to perform the first maintenance within 3,000 kilometers. However, the manufacturer typically mandates completing the first maintenance within 5,000 kilometers. Therefore, it's crucial not to exceed 5,000 kilometers before the first maintenance. Failing to follow the normal maintenance schedule as per the user manual means forfeiting the warranty, and the 4S store and manufacturer have the right to refuse warranty claims. 2. If the car is driven infrequently and doesn't reach 3,000 kilometers for a long time, it's recommended to perform the first maintenance within three months. 3. When purchasing the car, sales personnel might mention offering several free maintenance services. In reality, the first maintenance is already free, so no additional offers are needed. If they offer three free maintenance services, including the first one, there should be a total of four free maintenance services. 4. Essentially, the first maintenance only requires changing the engine oil and oil filter. If the 4S store suggests other paid maintenance items, they can be declined. However, free services like checking tire pressure and ensuring lights are functioning properly must be performed.
I've encountered many new car owners who are confused about when the first maintenance should start. Actually, the first maintenance period is calculated from the day you actually take delivery of the car or the date written on the purchase invoice. For example, when I bought my car, it was counted from the day I got the keys, and I remember checking the invoice date for accuracy. The first maintenance within the first three months or so is particularly important because engine break-in produces metal shavings, requiring an oil change and component inspection to prevent issues. If you don't do it on time, it might affect the warranty or even damage the engine. I recommend setting a reminder in your phone calendar or directly confirming with the 4S dealership, as each brand may have slight differences, but most count from the delivery date. Don't delay too long—it's good for the car's health and can save you trouble and money.
I remember when I first bought my car, I was also confused about the starting point of the first maintenance. Later, I figured out that the time is calculated from the day you paid and drove the car away, or the delivery date stated in the contract. As a car owner, I learned my lesson when I missed the deadline by over a month, and the inspection showed deteriorated engine oil—fortunately, no major parts were damaged. Now, I regularly remind my friends that new cars should go for maintenance after driving 2,000 to 3,000 kilometers to avoid missing the service window and damaging the vehicle. Developing good habits makes the car more durable and safer to drive. The manual has all the details, so it’s worth checking or logging reminders in an app—simple and practical. Don’t skip this step; it can save you a lot on future repair costs.
