How Long Does It Take for a New Car's First Maintenance?
4 Answers
New car's first maintenance time should follow the regulations in the car maintenance manual. The time varies for different car models, generally within the range of 5000 km/half a year or 10000 km/one year. The maintenance duration depends on the brand and model, usually taking about 1-2 hours to complete. Here is some extended information: 1. The initial driving period before the first maintenance is generally called the break-in period. 2. The owner needs to make an appointment with the 4S store in advance and fill in relevant information so that the service point can schedule the entry. 3. The main items of the new car's first maintenance are changing the engine oil and oil filter, as well as a comprehensive vehicle inspection. 4. The first maintenance of a new car is usually free, and the 4S store will conduct a comprehensive inspection of the car during the maintenance period.
When I first bought my car, I immediately took it in for its initial maintenance service. The 4S dealership provided quite attentive service. I had scheduled an appointment for Tuesday morning in advance, and after checking in at the dealership, the technician got to work quickly. The main tasks included changing the engine oil and oil filter, checking tire pressure, brake fluid, and the lighting system. The entire process took 1 hour and 20 minutes, during which I waited in the lounge drinking coffee. They also gave the car a complimentary wash and reminded me to service it every 5,000 kilometers or every six months afterwards. According to car owner community shares, compact cars usually take 1-2 hours for maintenance, while larger SUVs might extend beyond 2 hours. During peak hours, the wait can be longer due to queues. The first maintenance service is free as a new car benefit—don’t miss it to avoid affecting the warranty.
The first service time mainly depends on your car's brand and the service station's efficiency. Under normal circumstances, basic services like oil change, oil filter replacement, and fluid checks take about an hour for compact cars. However, if the shop is busy or you drive an SUV, it might take 1.5 to 2 hours. Factors include the number of technicians and whether you have an appointment; I recommend going on weekdays to reduce waiting. By the way, after the first service, engine noise will decrease a bit, and regular maintenance afterward extends the car's lifespan. Delaying the first service may lead to increased fuel consumption or minor issues, so addressing it early saves money and gives peace of mind.
I scheduled my first maintenance at 8 AM when it's less crowded and faster. After checking in at the dealership, the technician inspected the engine oil and filter, and it took about an hour to complete. A friend suggested bringing the maintenance manual to avoid delays in paperwork. The time may vary slightly depending on the car model, with smaller cars being quicker. Don’t forget about free services like tire pressure checks.
